Easter Celebrations Should Inspire Unity in Indonesia: Religious Affairs Minister

Jakarta. Religious Affairs Minister Lukman Hakim Saifuddin said Easter celebrations in Indonesia are perfect manifestations of the country's motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, or "unity in diversity."
Lukman said the theme for this year's official national celebration of Easter — to be hosted in Manado, North Sulawesi — "Torang Samua Ciptaan Tuhan," or "Everyone is God’s Creation," was chosen to reflect the values of the often-quoted motto.
"The founding fathers of this country clearly understood we're a pluralistic, diverse nation, that's why unity is something to be fought for," Lukman was quoted as saying on the Ministry of Religious Affairs website.
Shephard Supit, the chairman of the 2017 National Easter Celebration committee, said a series of ceremonies and events celebrating Easter will be held in Manado and Tondano from April 21-25.
More than 25,000 Christians are expected to attend, including foreign visitors.
North Sulawesi Governor Olly Donkokambey said the province is more than ready to host the Easter celebrations.
"It will be another honor for us. Last year we also hosted the National Christmas Celebration and the Maulid Nabi [Prophet Muhammad's birthday] Celebration," Olly said.
Tags: Keywords:The Latest
Sri Mulyani Assures Foreign Investors: Budget Cuts Won't Hinder Growth
Sri Mulyani highlights Indonesia's budget cuts at the Mandiri Investment Forum, focusing on public programs and driving economic growth.OJK Introduces New Crypto Listing Rules After Taking Over from Bappebti
OJK introduces new crypto trading rules after taking over from Bappebti, focusing on investor protection, transparency, and market stabilityPrabowo Welcomes Erdoğan at Jakarta Airport
This year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Turkey.Minister Bahlil Suspends Oil and Gas Director-General Achmad Muchtasyar
He didn’t mention the new role for Achmad, who had led the oil and gas directorate general for less than a month before his removal.Marcos Jr. Thanks Cambodia for Pardoning 13 Filipino Women Convicted of Illegal Surrogacy
The women have acted as surrogates for a criminal syndicate selling babies to foreigners for cash.Most Popular
