Indonesia’s Deputy Minister for Information and Public Diplomacy Siti Nugraha Mauludiah on Monday said Bangladesh and Indonesia have the same vision to safeguard world peace and to nurture and protect the existence of inclusive society.
“Cultivating environment for democracy to thrive is our way to do it,” she said while speaking at a dialogue on “Democracy in Inclusive Society” at the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS).
The Deputy Minister said this forum is their way to nurture both democracy and inclusive society and “I believe this dialogue will not stop here but will present more opportunities such as new partnership between Indonesia and Bangladesh.”
Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Bangladesh Heru H Subolo and Director, Bangladesh Institute of Law and International Affairs (BILIA) and former Chairman, National Human Rights Commission, Bangladesh Professor Mizanur Rahman spoke at the inaugural session.
“This forum serves to further fortify the longstanding bond between Indonesia and Bangladesh. At the governmental level, Indonesia and Bangladesh stand out as pivotal players within their respective regions,” said the Indonesian Deputy Minister.
Indonesia holds the distinction of being the largest democratic nation in its region, while also wielding considerable economic influence.
“This was underscored notably during Indonesia's Chairmanship of ASEAN last year, reaffirming its importance on the regional stage,” she said.
In numerous aspects, Mauludiah said Bangladesh evokes a striking resemblance to Indonesia, resonating with a tapestry of diversity and inclusivity interwoven seamlessly - from the rich culture, to the food, to the warmth of the people.
She said their media, CSO, academician, youth and the whole elements of society play a significant role in nurturing inclusive society and be part of their democratization process, a source of immense pride for the nation.
“They provide analysis, they become our close partners and allies, they represent the voice amplifier, the one who can and should curb the movement of hoax and hate speech and the collaborative effort blossomed fruitfully,” she said.
The dialog on “Democracy in Inclusive Society” is part of Indonesia flagship programme which is called the Bali Democracy Forum, held every year in Bali, Indonesia.
“Bangladesh’s participation in the Forum has never been absent. Even in 2011, PM Sheikh Hasina herself participated,” Ambassador Subolo said.
“Democracy, as we understand it, is not merely a system of governance; it is a philosophy that ensures the voices of all people, regardless of their background or beliefs, are heard and respected,” he said.
The Ambassador said inclusive democracy encompasses the involvement of every citizen in the decision-making processes that can shape people's lives.
“Both Indonesia and Bangladesh share a profound commitment to democratic principles," he said.
The envoy said the two nations have traversed unique paths, overcoming various challenges, to establish vibrant democracies that reflect the diversity and aspirations of the people.
“Through this journey, we have learned that true democracy thrives when it is inclusive, accommodates the views and aspirations of all segments of society, including minorities, women, youth, and marginalized communities,” he said.
The Ambassador said the journey towards inclusive democracy is a shared endeavor that requires collective action and cooperation. “And today’s dialogue is one of our momentums to unite and strengthen these efforts.”
Professor Mizanur Rahman said Bangladesh is the only country in South Asia which achieved its independence through a bloody War of Liberation, noting that it was not a charity or gift.
“We had to fight and attain our independence. We have a homegrown philosophy of democracy and inclusiveness,” he said, highlighting four fundamental pillars of the constitution - nationalism, democracy, secularism, and socialism.
Prof Mizanur said they have to get rid of the colonial and pre-colonial western thoughts and noted that the US has proved that democracy is never for all.
The Embassy of Indonesia in Dhaka in collaboration with the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) hosted the dialogue.