Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs is set to launch a new educational initiative called the "Love Curriculum" to be implemented in Islamic schools (madrasas) across the country. The curriculum aims to promote solidarity and prevent discrimination, ensuring students of different backgrounds and religions coexist respectfully, reads an Antara online report.
Farid F. Saenong, a special staff member to the Minister of Religious Affairs, discussed the new curriculum on Sunday, explaining that it was developed in response to social issues affecting communities and the education sector. “The creation of this curriculum is inseparable from the social challenges we face, which also resonate in the education system,” he said.
The core objective of the Love Curriculum is to ensure that madrasa students do not feel entitled to discriminate against minority groups or people of different faiths. Saenong emphasized that the initiative reflects Indonesia's longstanding commitment to religious tolerance. He cited former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, who once praised Indonesia as a model for countries where Islam and democracy coexist harmoniously.
Saenong also pointed out that other world leaders have used Indonesia as a model for gender equality within the Muslim world, underscoring the country's inclusive approach to social and religious issues.
This initiative aligns with a key work contract signed between Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar and President Prabowo Subianto before Umar's appointment. The agreement aims to position Indonesia as a global leader in fostering peace, democracy, and religious welfare. “The work contract seeks to make Indonesia the best example of creating peace in matters of religion, democracy, and welfare worldwide,” Saenong concluded.
Through the Love Curriculum, Indonesia continues to showcase its commitment to fostering a peaceful, inclusive, and tolerant society.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
