Peace Talks 5: Anticipating Extremist Movement through National Moderation

Peace Talks 5 was set to unfold, a significant event co-organized by the Master’s Program in Peace and Conflict Resolution of Gadjah Mada University and The Apex Chronicles. The theme, “Anticipating Extremist Movement through National Moderation,” had drawn a diverse audience of students, academics, and professionals, al; eager to hear insights on how to tackle extremism in Indonesia and Malaysia. 

The first speaker, Prof. Dr. Irfan Idris, M.A., highlighted the situation in Indonesia. He delved into how extremist groups, often religiously motivated, could undermine the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, Indonesia’s motto of “Unity in Diversity.” His speech centered on the critical role of education and community engagement in shaping a society resistant to extremism. He stressed that national moderation was the key to uniting people of different faiths and backgrounds. 

Next, Dr. Ahmad El-Muhammady, an expert of counterterrorism ISTAC – IIUM (Malaysia) spoke passionately about the rise of extremist ideologies and how they threatened to fracture the delicate social harmony in both Indonesia and Malaysia. Dr. Ahmad emphasized that combating these movements required not just military or legal responses but the promotion of national value and moderation. 

Finally, Ninin Karlina from Peace Gen Chapter Solo took a more grassroot approach, discussing how her organization worked directly with at-risk youth to promote peace and tolerance. She shared stories of how dialogue and open conversations had steered young minds away from radicalization. She also spoke about the power of creating safe spaces for young people to express themselves without fear of judgment. The event concluded with a Q&A session.