We all know the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) as that hardline ‘religious’ group that opposed Governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama for being Christian, and recently claimed that Muslims aren’t allowed to wish Christians a Merry Christmas.
So we were quite surprised to see the FPI making a gesture of religious tolerance. FPI Chairman Habib Rizieq Syihab was photographed holding hands with Father Gilbert Lumoindong, head of the Indonesia Bethel Church (GBI), and the picture was posted on both Father Gilbert’s Twitter account (@PastorGilbertL) and the FPI’s (@DPP_FPI).
So are the FPI really tolerant of other religions or beliefs now? Or is this just some kind of PR damage control by the FPI?
At this point, we actually don’t want to hear the explanation behind this photograph. To us, it is a reminder that religious tolerance is completely possible in Indonesia, and that’s a beautiful thing. Let’s enjoy it while it lasts.
