Mahfud MD: Education Plays A Role In Preventing Radical Understanding

Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Mahfud MD gave a speech at the National Working Meeting of the Nahdlatul Ulama Teachers Association (Pergunu) in Leuwimunding, Majalengka, West Java, Saturday (17/6/2023). (ANTARA PHOTO/Dedhez Anggara/tom)

MAJALENGKA - Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs (Menko Polhukam) Mahfud MD said education plays a very important role in countering radical ideas that are increasingly developing in society.

"Education has a strategic role in efforts to counter radicalism," he said, in Majalengka Regency, West Java, Saturday, when giving a speech to the National Working Meeting for the Nahdlatul Ulama (Pergunu) V Teachers Association, reported by ANTARA, Saturday, June 17.

Mahfud said that holistic and integrated handling from various parties is needed to ward off radical movements that can damage harmony and harmony in religious life in Indonesia.

"Teachers have a big responsibility in shaping the younger generation who have a correct understanding of religion and uphold the values of tolerance," he said.

The former Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between the government, educational institutions, and the community in building a conducive educational environment, including the need to implement a curriculum that focuses on character education, national values, and balanced religious knowledge.

According to him, maintaining diversity and respecting religious differences need to build a strong understanding of the essence of religion and increase mutual respect.

"This is what will form a young generation with noble character and uphold religious tolerance," he said.

He emphasized the government's commitment to providing protection to all Indonesian citizens to carry out their religion and beliefs freely.

He emphasized that efforts to prevent and overcome radicalism are not only the responsibility of the security forces, but also the shared responsibility of all components of the nation.