The Values of Pancasila: Indonesia

Belief in one supreme God, humanism, national unity, consultative democracy and social justice. These five principles came into the minds of Indonesia's founding fathers when they discussed the country's ideology. The five principles later became what we now know as Pancasila or the five pillars.

Not too long ago President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono asked the people not to discuss or debate the state ideology any further arguing that the five pillars were final and nonnegotiable, Laura Lukmanto wrote.

One of the principles in the state ideology is belief in one God. This principle virtually requires Indonesians - with no exceptions - to adopt one religion. It also guarantees freedom of religion.

Unfortunately religion has become a sensitive subject. If one does not have an open mind the discussion may result in endless conflict. Religious conflicts have often flared up in the country over the past few years.

The next principle is humanity. The state ideology suggests that Indonesians all strive to achieve a just and civilized society. Sadly this kind of humanity still has not been realized in Indonesia. Justice is only for people who have power.

The state ideology Pancasila was expected to unify Indonesians from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. The reality however speaks differently. Individual or group interests have reigned over public interests.

The fourth aspect is consultative democracy. According to this principle the government should listen to public aspirations. It is doubtful however that the current government is an ideal one. Not too long ago the government raised fuel prices which caused the prices of basic commodities to soar despite public uproar that it delay raising fuel prices.

When it comes to justice most people believe that justice is only for people who have power and wealth.

Pancasila was introduced to make the life of all Indonesian citizens better but the fact is those principles have not been realized. Some groups have even tried to interpret the ideology to suit their own (narrow) ideology.

Therefore, as President Susilo Bambang Yudhyono said recently, it is better if we do not discuss our ideology now in order to prevent serious conflicts from happening.