A highlight after PM Modi’s visit: Indonesia’s model of inclusion is a lesson for all

PM Modi's Indonesia Visit Highlights Inclusive Model for Global Inspiration

A highlight after PM Modi s visit - A highlight after PM Modi's visit to Indonesia showcased the nation's remarkable approach to religious harmony, drawing attention to its unique model of inclusion. The Prime Minister's recent stop at the Prambanan Temple, a 10th-century Hindu site in central Java, emphasized the deep historical and cultural ties between India and Indonesia. This visit, part of his Indo-Pacific tour, underscored how shared religious narratives, such as those found in the Ramayana and Mahabharata, have long bridged the two countries. The following day, Modi addressed the Indonesian parliament, highlighting the nation’s enduring legacy as a pluralistic society where diverse faiths coexist.

Following PM Modi's visit, the focus on Indonesia’s integration of Hindu and Islamic traditions became a central theme. The nation’s national emblem, the Garuda, symbolizes Lord Vishnu, reflecting the historical influence of Indian traders and Sufi mystics from Gujarat. These cultural exchanges, which introduced Islamic teachings to the archipelago, have played a pivotal role in shaping Indonesia’s identity as the world’s largest Muslim-majority country. With over 240 million Muslims, the country’s ability to maintain religious harmony despite its complex social fabric is a testament to its inclusive policies.

The Roots of Pluralism in Indonesian Society

Indonesia’s model of inclusion, often overlooked in global discourse, has emerged as a beacon of resilience amid rising Right-wing populism. While challenges such as democratic backsliding and blasphemy laws persist, the nation’s commitment to religious freedom remains intact. The US Commission on International Religious Freedom has acknowledged this balance, noting how Indonesia’s framework of coexistence endures despite political shifts. This model is rooted in Pancasila, the nation’s foundational ideology, which promotes humanitarianism, unity in diversity, and social justice as guiding principles.

At the heart of Indonesia’s pluralistic identity lies the concept of

Ummatan Wasatan

, or the "middle community of moderation," derived from the Quran. This principle, embedded in national education and governance, encourages critical thinking and cultural synthesis. The nation’s Islamic moderate tradition, known as Wasatiyyah, has become a cornerstone of its society, fostering a vision where faith and pluralism are not opposing forces but complementary. As Indonesia’s Muslim population continues to grow, its ability to sustain this balance offers valuable lessons for the world.

From Crisis to Coexistence: Strengthening Religious Tolerance

Indonesia’s journey toward religious harmony was tested during the 2002 Bali bombings, a devastating event that exposed vulnerabilities in the nation’s social fabric. However, this crisis catalyzed renewed efforts to preserve unity. Muslim groups like Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah, alongside the government, promoted a vision of Islam that embraces diversity. NU, the world’s largest Islamic organization, championed

Insaniyya

—a concept emphasizing humaneness and inclusivity—as a unifying force. This approach reflects a broader strategy to counter extremism while maintaining the core values of the Islamic tradition.

PM Modi's visit to Prambanan Temple and Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist site, highlighted Indonesia’s ability to celebrate its religious heritage without exclusion. The 2022 initiative allowing regular prayers at UNESCO sites further reinforced this legacy, embedding Islamic practices within the nation’s cultural landmarks. By recognizing the historical contributions of various faiths, Indonesia’s model of inclusion serves as a powerful example of how shared history can foster modern-day religious tolerance.

Indonesia’s success in maintaining harmony is not accidental but the result of deliberate policies and societal values. Its constitution guarantees freedom of religion, while its education system fosters interfaith understanding. As a highlight after PM Modi's visit, the country’s approach underscores the importance of moderation, dialogue, and historical awareness in building a cohesive society. The Prime Minister’s recognition of this model has sparked international interest, with many viewing it as a blueprint for addressing religious tensions elsewhere.