Confucian Voice in Wantimpres Highlights Indonesia’s Unity in Diversity

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The appointment of Budi Tanuwibowo to the Presidential Advisory Council (Wantimpres) is being hailed as a milestone in Indonesia’s ongoing commitment to Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity).

Budi, who also serves as Chairman of the Supreme Council for Confucian Religion in Indonesia (MATAKIN), underscored the significance of Confucian representation in a national institution long shaped by diverse voices.

“With today’s event, I feel this nation truly upholds one of its pillars, its motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,” Budi said after being sworn in by President Prabowo Subianto at the State Palace in Jakarta on Friday, October 2, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He acknowledged that the Confucian community remains one of the smallest religious groups in Indonesia and has faced restrictions in the past. “We once experienced a long period of suspension, from 1978 to 1998,” he recalled.

The Reform era marked a turning point. Under President B.J. Habibie, MATAKIN was able to resume its activities, holding a national congress in August 1998.

Budi noted that the organization’s roots stretch back to March 17, 1900, though it endured interruptions during the Japanese occupation before being revived in 1955.

Confucian Indonesians, he added, have played roles in the nation’s history. He cited Djiauw Kie Siong, whose house in Rengasdengklok became the site where Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta stayed with youth leaders on the eve of Indonesia’s independence proclamation. The house is now recognized in official cultural records.

For Budi, this historical context deepens the meaning of his appointment. He expressed hope that broader representation in state institutions will strengthen harmony and unity.

“With greater togetherness and resilience, I am confident Indonesia will move forward, given its vast potential and the solidarity of its people,” he said.

Budi admitted he was surprised by the appointment, learning of it only on Friday morning through a call from Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya. He was sworn in alongside 25 other members of Wantimpres under Presidential Decree No. 107/P on the appointment of council members. ***