Pramono Anung has emphasized that lasting peace does not solely emerge from high-level diplomatic negotiations or global summits, but begins at the individual level through mutual respect, acceptance of differences, and a shared commitment to coexist in diversity.
Speaking at the Sacred Reflection Night for World Peace held at the National Monument in Central Jakarta on Saturday, the governor framed peace as a daily practice rooted in human values rather than a distant political goal.
The event, themed “A Sacred Night for World Peace and Global Harmony,” brought together religious leaders, diplomats, and members of the public in a collective moment of reflection, prayer, and dialogue. Organized by the Gema Sadhana, the gathering aimed to strengthen interfaith understanding amid ongoing global tensions.
In his remarks, Pramono underlined the importance of internalizing values that promote harmony, noting that genuine peace begins with individual awareness and behavior.
“Peace does not always originate from large international forums,” he said in a statement released on Sunday. “It starts within each of us—through respect, acceptance, and the willingness to live side by side despite our differences.”
He expressed appreciation for Gema Sadhana’s initiative in creating an inclusive interfaith space, describing it as a meaningful platform for nurturing humanitarian values at a time when divisions and conflicts continue to challenge societies worldwide.
The governor also drew on philosophical and spiritual teachings to illustrate his message. Referring to the Hindu principle of Ahimsa, he highlighted the importance of non-violence not only in physical actions but also in thoughts and speech.
“In Hindu teachings, we recognize the noble value of Ahimsa, which is the principle of not causing harm, whether in thought, speech, or action,” he said. “This value teaches that true strength does not lie in violence, but in love, empathy, and compassion.”
Pramono further referenced the concept of Tri Hita Karana, which emphasizes the balance between human relationships with God, fellow humans, and the natural environment. He suggested that these principles offer a holistic framework for achieving harmony in an increasingly complex world.
By invoking these ideas, the governor positioned Indonesia’s cultural and spiritual heritage as a source of inspiration for global peace efforts.
“We show the world that Indonesia is home to the values of tolerance, togetherness, and peace,” he said. “From Jakarta, we send a message that peace is a shared responsibility that must be continuously upheld.”
As one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most diverse urban centers, Jakarta plays a unique role in reflecting the broader dynamics of Indonesian society. With a population comprising various ethnicities, religions, and cultural backgrounds, the city often serves as a microcosm of national diversity.
Pramono acknowledged this reality, noting that Jakarta’s status as a global city carries both opportunities and responsibilities.
“As a global city, Jakarta must become a model in maintaining harmony amid diversity,” he said. “This is not just an aspiration, but a responsibility that we must fulfill through concrete actions.”
To that end, he affirmed the commitment of the Jakarta Provincial Government to support initiatives that promote unity, including interfaith dialogues, cultural exchanges, and community-based programs.
Such efforts, he noted, are essential for building resilience against social fragmentation and fostering a sense of shared identity among residents.
The Sacred Reflection Night also served as a diplomatic platform, attended by several foreign representatives, including Sandeep Chakravorty and Sashikala Premawardhane. Their presence underscored the event’s international dimension and the broader relevance of interfaith engagement in promoting global harmony.
In addition, Kobalen, as the head of the organizing body, played a key role in facilitating the event, which combined spiritual reflection with discussions on humanitarian values.
Observers note that such gatherings reflect Indonesia’s longstanding tradition of religious pluralism, which is enshrined in its national ideology, Pancasila. This framework emphasizes unity in diversity and has been central to the country’s approach to managing its multicultural society.
However, maintaining harmony in a diverse society is an ongoing challenge, particularly in the face of global polarization, misinformation, and socio-political tensions.
Pramono’s remarks can be seen as part of a broader effort by Indonesian leaders to reinforce the importance of tolerance and coexistence in both domestic and international contexts.
He also stressed that the values discussed during the event should not remain confined to ceremonial occasions but must be translated into everyday actions.
“I invite all members of the public not to stop at ceremonies,” he said. “These values must become part of daily life—spreading humanity, strengthening brotherhood, and fostering peace starting from the smallest communities.”
This call to action reflects a recognition that sustainable peace requires grassroots participation. While governments and institutions play a crucial role, the behavior and attitudes of individuals ultimately determine the quality of social interactions.
Experts in peacebuilding often highlight the importance of local initiatives in preventing conflict and promoting reconciliation. By encouraging citizens to adopt inclusive and compassionate practices, leaders can help create environments that are less susceptible to division.
The event at the National Monument also symbolized Jakarta’s role as a hub for cultural and civic activities. As one of Indonesia’s most iconic landmarks, the site provides a fitting backdrop for initiatives aimed at uniting people across different backgrounds.
In recent years, the Jakarta administration has increasingly supported programs that emphasize cultural diversity and social cohesion, recognizing their importance in maintaining stability in a rapidly urbanizing environment.
Pramono’s speech aligns with these efforts, reinforcing the idea that cities can serve as laboratories for peaceful coexistence.
Beyond its local significance, the message delivered at the event resonates with global discussions on peace and conflict resolution. In a world marked by geopolitical tensions and social divisions, the emphasis on empathy, respect, and shared humanity offers a counter-narrative to polarization.
The presence of international diplomats at the event suggests that such messages are not only relevant domestically but also contribute to broader diplomatic engagement.
As the world continues to grapple with complex challenges—from armed conflicts to climate change—the need for collaborative and inclusive approaches to peacebuilding has become increasingly evident.
Indonesia’s emphasis on interfaith dialogue and cultural harmony positions it as a potential contributor to these global efforts.
For Jakarta, the challenge lies in translating these ideals into sustained policies and practices that address the needs of its diverse population.
As Pramono concluded his remarks, he reiterated that peace is not a static achievement but an ongoing process that requires continuous effort and commitment.
By encouraging individuals to embody the values of tolerance and compassion, he sought to inspire a collective movement toward a more harmonious society—one that begins not in conference rooms, but in the everyday interactions of its people.
