Indonesia is a nation that’s defined by its multiculturalism and pluralism. Ironically, the variety of ethnic groups, cultures, and religions that make up the nation has made Indonesia very susceptible to conflicts. Over the past 14 years alone, so many conflicts have erupted, whether covered by the media or not. Among the high-profile conflicts are those that occurred in Aceh, Ambon, Poso, Sampit, Papua, Lampung, Cikeusik, and Sampang. Conflicts have also emerged between students, gangs, mass organizations and others.
These clashes are part of a multidimensional crisis, which show that people are starting to forget a key element of the state ideology, Pancasila.
The Pancasila ideology as Indonesia’s unity pillar is slowly crumbling and as a result is damaging the very foundations of the nation. Indonesia is now weaker than it was before the reformation era.
The transition between the Old Order (Orde Baru) to the reformation era has led to changes in all aspects. Pancasila is often regarded as a handcraft of Soeharto’s Old Order and is implemented only as it’s favorable to the government. Many seem to have left Pancasila behind and as it fades the nation’s identity goes with it.
We know that a nation defined by Pancasila is distinguished by the principles of independence, tolerance and gotong royong (working together). These characters are difficult to come by nowadays. Indonesia seems much too dependent on foreign countries in many ways. Tolerance is ever weaker, making people reluctant to accept primordial boundaries such as religion, as well as ethical and racial groups. Pancasila no longer serves as the soul or the foundational principles that Indonesians hold onto.
Yacobus Maniani
Jayapura
