Roy Marten and Amstrong Sembiring Unite to Fight for the Recognition of Orthodox Christianity in Indonesia

Kapanlagi.com - Roy Marten, a senior actor and adherent of Orthodox Christianity, expressed his support for the legal actions taken by legal expert JJ Amstrong Sembiring. This effort aims to push for the official recognition of Orthodox Christianity in state documents, as guaranteed by the constitution.

"Indeed, Orthodoxy is a minority among minorities, but in essence, we are the mother of all Catholic and Christian churches. To this day, there are already 400 million followers worldwide," said Roy Marten in Jakarta.

Orthodox Christianity has drawn attention due to its similarities with Islamic traditions, such as the use of veils by women during worship, gender segregation in places of worship, and the act of prostration in prayer. Nevertheless, this community has yet to receive official recognition in state administration.

1. Strengthen Pluralism

(Credit: Special)

JJ Amstrong Sembiring referred to the Constitutional Court's (MK) Decision No. 97/PUU-XIV/2016 as the legal basis for realizing this recognition. This decision grants the right to followers of beliefs to include their beliefs in official state documents, such as ID cards.

"The group of followers of beliefs has already received recognition. Therefore, with the same legal principle, beliefs such as Orthodox should also be accommodated. This is in accordance with the guarantee of religious freedom in the 1945 Constitution, so there is no discrimination between beliefs," asserted Amstrong.

He added that the recognition of Orthodox Christianity is a step to strengthen religious pluralism in Indonesia. "This reinforces Article 28E and Article 29 of the 1945 Constitution, ensuring that all beliefs receive equal treatment, including the inclusion of religious identity in official state documents," he explained.

2. Smart Struggle

Roy Marten referred to this legal action as a smart struggle that is very relevant to the current conditions in Indonesia. "This lawsuit is smart, in accordance with the Constitution regarding the rights of citizens to practice their beliefs, and the obligation of the state to protect the rights of every citizen," he said.

As an Orthodox Christian, Roy believes that if this lawsuit is granted, the Orthodox community in Indonesia will feel more respected and secure in practicing their worship.

"If granted, it would be very relieving. It means that as Orthodox believers, we can worship peacefully," he stated.

Amstrong Sembiring emphasized that the recognition of Orthodox Christianity is not just about state administration, but also a manifestation of justice and respect for diversity. With the principle of equality before the law, all beliefs, including Orthodoxy, have the same rights.

(kpl/aal/tdr)