Atikoh Ganjar Tells The Story Of Tolerance In Front Of Thousands Of People Interfaith Surabaya

The wife of the candidate for president of the Republic of Indonesia number 3, Ganjar Pranowo, Siti Atikoh, (Ist)

SURABAYA - Siti Atikoh Supriyanti admitted that she had been in doubt about her attitude towards religious differences. Atikoh said that since childhood he had known religious tolerance because he had friends with different religions.

This was conveyed by Atikoh when attending the Religious Meeting in Surabaya, Wednesday, December 20. Initially, Atikoh discussed the Youth Pledge, which became evidence that the establishment of this republic was not due to the role of one group, but from various groups that worked hand in hand.

"Yesterday I went to Rengasdengklok (Bung Karno's exile house) with Mas Ganjar, it turned out that the owner of the house was a citizen of descent. So if anyone wants homogeneity, it is the person who tries to distort history," he said.

Atikoh then said that his husband's track record, Ganjar Pranowo, regarding diversity and religious tolerance, could also be seen when he led Central Java.

"We always accompany and protect all groups of people to be able to worship safely, comfortably and independently," said Atikoh to the roar of applause from the interfaith who attended.

Atikoh also discussed Ganjar's struggle so that Buddhists and Hindus can worship in Borobudur and Prambanan Temple without being treated like tourists. For other places of worship, said Atikoh, it is also well sought in Central Java.

"So there is no such thing as a minority majority, because all have the same right to worship and get closer to the khalik," he said.

Atikoh also said that he had doubts about his diversity and tolerance. This is because of his hijab appearance and the background of his religious family.

"But since childhood I have had friends who are of different religions. In fact with him, I am often asked to be reminded, have prayed or not. Vice versa, so diversity is beautiful," he said.

As is known, Siti Atikoh is the grandson of Kiai Hisyam Abdul Karim, founder of the Roudlotus Sholihin Islamic Boarding School in Sokawera Hamlet, Kalijaran Village, Karanganyar, Purbalingga. Kiai Hisyam was known as Rais Syuriah PCNU Purbalingga in 1973-1983 in the Purbalingga area, Central Java.