RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Freedom of expression and religious freedom should not be interpreted as unlimited liberal rights. Instead, they must be accompanied by the obligation to respect the rights of others. This reflects the implementation of human rights in Indonesia, which is subject to clear legal and constitutional limitations.

As quoted by mui.or.id, the Secretary General of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Buya Amirsyah Tambunan, made the statement during the opening of the Multaqo’ Da'i, organized by the MUI Da'wah Commission at Buya Hamka Hall in Jakarta on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. The event was also attended by Minister of Human Rights, Natalius Pigai.

"Universal human rights, as understood in the Western world without limitations, must be interpreted from the perspective of constitutional human rights, as stipulated in Article 28J paragraph (1) of the 1945 Constitution," Amirsyah conveyed at the gathering of ulama and da'i.

In addition, Buya Amirsyah conveyed that Article 28J paragraph (1) of the 1945 Constitution explicitly requires every individual to respect the human rights of others. This provision serves as the foundation for maintaining a balance between individual rights and corresponding obligations in social, national, and state life.

He has also said that a comprehensive understanding of these constitutional limitations is essential for Islamic preachers so that the religious messages they deliver continue to uphold public order, promote tolerance, and avoid hate speech and discrimination.

"Every individual is obliged to respect the rights of others. Maintaining public order and mutual respect is essential to ensuring harmony and order in society," he affirmed.

The MUI Secretary General further stated that Islam fundamentally provides a reference for the principles of universal human rights. Basic rights, such as the right to life, are fully consistent with the values of Islamic law (Sharia).

He noted that this is reflected in the 1990 Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam, adopted by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which integrates the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) with Islamic values.