President stresses need to emulate Prophet Muhammad's behavior

Jakarta, NU Online
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said polite and ethical behavior as exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad (about 14 centuries ago) should become an inspiration in developing democracy in Indonesia.

The president in his speech at the commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad`s Birthday (Maulid) at the State Palace here Thursday night said the good lesson given by the great prophet in the field of democracy and political life was an example of high wisdom and a celebration of harmony.<>

"The democracy we should promote is a democracy with a full mandate of ethics, decency and upholding of noble attitude, not a democracy based on mutual hostility and destruction," he said as quoted by Antara news agency.

In addition, democracy in Indonesia should also mean refraining from tyrannical rule of strong group and the coercion of will which can be harmful to justice.

"Democracy must be courteous and ethical, as exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad," the president said.

The head of state also reminded that the principle of deliberation to reach a consensus for the sake of the country still has a place in the current reform era.

In effort to realize a just and prosperous society as shown by the Prophet Muhammad, the president said the Indonesian government had launched several strategic programs such as social assistance, people`s business credit, health insurance, and other programs for the interests of marginalized communities.

On the occasion the president also urged the Indonesian muslims to continue the nation development on the foundation of faith and strong devotion. (dar)