Malang, (malangkota.go.id) – Accompanied by the East Java Regional Police Chief, Commander of V Brawijaya Military Command, and the Mayor of Malang, East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa reviewed a number of churches and held dialogues with Christian leaders. In addition to the Surabaya area, the review was also carried out at the Cathedral Church on Jalan Ijen, Malang City, Friday (02/04/2021).
This review is to ensure the safety and comfort of Christians in carrying out Good Friday mass until the celebration of Easter. In front of local Christian leaders, Bishop Hendrikus Pidiarto Gunawan, church administrators and congregations who were present, Governor Khofifah reminded the importance of tolerance and harmony between religious communities.
"The security and comfort of every religious community in carrying out worship is guaranteed by the state. This means that no party may disturb or provide threats when the community is carrying out worship," said Khofifah.
In this context, the former Minister of Social Affairs believes that religious harmony in East Java has been well maintained to date. Khofifah and the ranks of Forkopimda asked the congregation to remain solemn in worshiping Good Friday and Easter. "The congregation does not need to feel afraid or worried about security threats, such as what happened at the Makassar Cathedral Church a few days ago," he said.
A similar statement was made by the Mayor of Malang, Drs. H. Sutiaji who said that his party would provide a guarantee of security for every religious community in carrying out their worship. Especially in this Easter celebration, he promised to pay special attention so that Christians can carry out their worship smoothly.
Because we are still in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, the bespectacled man also advised people to continue to comply with health protocols and the church to prepare supporting facilities and infrastructure, so as not to trigger the transmission of the virus.
"In East Java, and especially in Malang City, so far religious communities have lived in peace and side by side. There are even some community organizations and/or volunteers who are willing to provide security for religious communities who are carrying out their worship, and this is extraordinary in our opinion," added Sutiaji.
During worship, churches in East Java received special security from TNI-Polri personnel to prevent unwanted things. In between their visit this time, the East Java Forkopimda also provided a number of basic food packages for congregations in need as well as infrastructure to prevent the transmission of Covid-19. (say/ram)
