REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA – British Prime Minister David Cameron applauded Indonesian transition to democracy as it could be an example for other Muslim countries. Cameron told the student of Al-Azhar University in Jakarta that Indonesia showed the development of democracy and modern economy without sacrificing safety and religion.

“The people of Indonesia can show through democracy there is an alternative to dictatorship and extremism,” Cameron said on his speech.  As the country with the biggest Muslim population on the planet, religion and democracy did not need to be in conflict, he added. He saw Indonesia as the most stable democracy in Asia.

Indonesia shows the transition of democracy and economy which also gives the freedom to practice their religion. “Following your example, young Muslims across the world will be inspired to choose democracy as their future. That will be the greatest defeat that al-Qaeda or al-jamaa al-Islamiya could ever suffer,” he said.

Before delivering his speech, Cameron said Islamic greeting, Assalamualaikum, to the attendees. Also, he closed his speech with the same greeting. Instantly the crowd cheered and answered his greeting in similar gesture.

Cameron also said his admiration to Indonesian democracy using Indonesian language. He said, “Saya salut dengan anda,” which means ‘I salute you’.  

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