Religious leaders in Semarang have issued a moral appeal for peace after two weeks of demonstrations that spiraled into riots, looting, and arson across the city.
Speaking at the Archbishop’s House of the Archdiocese of Semarang (KAS) on September 1, Vicar General Fr. F.X. Sugiyana said the violent eruptions in late August reflected “an accumulation of public frustration.”
“Like a boil, that accumulation can burst at any time and endanger the nation’s safety. The government needs to implement fundamental reforms to achieve true reconciliation and harmony,” he said.
In a joint statement, the leaders expressed appreciation for the efforts of the President, DPR, MPR, and DPD to calm the situation and absorb public aspirations.
They called for public policies that consistently side with the needs of citizens and stressed that these must be developed through participatory processes.
The religious leaders urged authorities to avoid repressive measures and instead prioritize persuasive approaches when dealing with civilians.
At the same time, they reminded students and citizens to continue voicing their concerns without violence and to remain alert to provocations.
The leaders condemned all destructive acts, including looting, vandalism, and violence that harm people, other living beings, and the environment, as well as the spread of hate speech or sentiments against ethnic or religious groups.
They appealed to religious and belief leaders to respond swiftly to public unrest and guide their communities as “moral voices” for harmony and national progress, acting with a clear conscience and sound reason.
The appeal also encouraged the wider public to care for one another, pray together, and work toward a more peaceful and prosperous nation.
Pelita coordinator Setyawan Budy reaffirmed their commitment, saying, “Religious leaders together with the people of Central Java are ready to join hands to preserve peace and advance the nation.”
