Ex-Napiter Returns To Mother Earth, Joins The Indonesian Independence Ceremony In Semarang

Ganjar Pranowo (Photo via Central Java Provincial Government)

SEMARANG - 22 former terrorist convicts attend a flag ceremony in commemoration of the 77th Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia at the Simpanglima Pancasila Square, Semarang City, Wednesday 17 August.

The inspector of ceremonies for the Governor of Central Java, Ganjar Pranowo, specifically pinned a red and white hasduk on the head of Joko Priyono, one of the ex-convicts just before the ceremony began.

The involvement of ex-convicts in the ceremony is proof that Central Java has a high tolerance. In addition, he has a concern for the eradication of acts of intolerance and radicalism.

“Yes, Alhamdulillah, we can stay in touch with other ex-naipter, and with all elements of society here. So, when we show that the people of Central Java have a high tolerance. We can be accepted from any circle,” said Joko Priyono after the ceremony.

Joko, who was sentenced to four years in prison for being involved in the Jamaah Islamiyah (JI) network, greatly appreciated Ganjar Pranowo who invited former convicts to join in saluting the red and white flag on independence day.

"So I appreciate Mr. Governor Ganjar who has given the opportunity to ex-convicts in this August 17 ceremony," he continued in a statement from the Central Java Provincial Government.

Not only that, Central Java has also given more attention to ex-convicts. For example, by providing entrepreneurial training, as well as capital loans for businesses.

“Alhamdulillah, the government is good. After being released from prison there is a process to restore welfare, for example business. It was done for real. Such as providing product marketing training. And, businesses can submit proposals, God willing, they will be helped,” said Joko, who is currently starting the optical business.

Joko, currently admits to forming Neo JI with his colleagues who have left JI, with the aim of rectifying the understanding of terrorism towards ahlussunah wal congregation. Not only with the provincial government and the community, anti-radicalism development is also carried out with the Ruangobrol Unit Idensos Densus 88 AT Satgaswil Central Java.

“JI disbanded in 2007, and in 2008 I founded Neo JI to straighten out understanding. Together with other friends, we try to invite back to the creed of Ahlussunah wal Jama'ah. Please understand that Pancasila is fairer, from the historical process of its formation, as a benefit, and was made for the good of the Indonesian nation," he added.

Likewise, another ex-convict husband and wife couple, Ahmad Supriyanto and Ika Puspita Sari also said that Central Java, both the government and the people, were very open and welcoming of terrorists who had re-accepted the concept of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.

"Thank God we were free last January. Both them (the government and the people of Central Java). Thank God they helped us, including our wedding process, helping to support everything,” he said.

He advised the younger generation to be able to learn religion through many teachers. So, it does not only come from one teacher and one understanding.

"Long story. Actually because of the science factor, because in the past the ignorance that accompanied us. And, when in prison came knowledge that we had never learned before, finally we admitted that this is the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia that we must fight for. The message is, learn which knowledge must be from the teacher, not just one teacher, learn from many teachers, because one teacher is only misleading because he is only blind taqlid,” he explained.

Meanwhile, his wife, Ika Puspita Sari, was invited to join the flag ceremony, which was an honor for him.

“Alhamdulillah, this is the first time we have been invited to this event, which used to be a taboo in our group. And because we have returned to the Republic of Indonesia again, this is an honor for us," said Ika.

The Governor of Central Java, Ganjar Pranowo, wants ex-convicts to be able to participate in providing understanding of the dangers of intolerance and radicalism.

"I want them to tell the community, convey good education to students, in houses of worship that they [have experience and have made mistakes and admit it," said Ganjar.

Later, said Ganjar, it will become a value of togetherness and the value of unity. “And, they can give testimonials on how they process back into Mother Earth's lap and then they can educate and many of their activities include social activities. That's the message I want to convey so that the nation's children are not misguided, so that all Pancasila values are truly grounded," he said.