By : Almira Fadillah *)
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, The movement of radical groups in spreading their ideology has shifted. They now use technology as well as communication devices to spread the ideology. Their goals in using the mass media are to spread fearful messages, threats, ideology, to recruit, and to develop its cells widely.
Previously, the radical groups tend to move secretly. They create a halaqah (study group) and recruit persons directly. Yet, they have now penetrated the virtual world, either social media or websites that can be accessed by the public freely in order to influence public in general to follow the ideology and support their actions through a variety of studies focusing on religious issues and national issues, accompanied by the postings of the group's activities.
Currently, Indonesia is still considered vulnerable in facing the spread of radical ideology in the era of globalization, given the emergence of the "Lone Wolf" movement which lately is often committed by certain elements. In general, "Lone Wolf" action itself is performed by actors who are not trained and are inspired by the movement of radical groups that spread the thoughts and activities through the internet and social networking.
The radicalism is now widely spread in society, especially with the existence of Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant / Syria (ISIS) whose thoughts also began to spread to other ASEAN countries, namely Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. One of the factors causing the spread of these schools is the evolution of the internet. Through the internet, radical ideas are disseminated. As a result, many people get inspired by the ideas and involve in the radical world.
Generally, ISIS itself is another extremist movement carrying the name of Islam. This led to the attachment of "violence" to Islam. It can be said that the people who support and realize the global vision of ISIS are people who do not understand the geopolitics in Arab, especially in Iraq and Syria. Most of these people garner the ideology or actions posted on the Internet by the radical group.
In disseminating its propaganda, the radical groups tend to use humanitarian issues in the Middle East together with the shallow interpretation of verses from the Quran to influence the emotions of the public and to attract them to get involved in "Jihad" activities which include acts of terror, war or other action to support the creation of the Caliphate and the implementation of the Daulah Islamiyah.
Regarding the movement of radical groups and extremist groups in Indonesia like ISIS, they tend to use social networking and a number of sites. Since Indonesia is the country with the largest Muslim in the world, ISIS definitely could threaten the integrity of the Unitary Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). The ideology brought by ISIS is in contrast with the ideology of Pancasila and the spirit of Islamic brotherhood (ukhuwah islamiyah) which have been the character of Indonesian religious communities that are considered tolerant and inclusive.
Challenges and Solution
Looking at the dynamics of the movement of radical groups today, it can certainly make a negative impact or influence for the younger generation. Meanwhile, the younger generation and society should focus more on supporting and participating in government programs to improve the welfare and prosperity of the nation of Indonesia.
Related to the movement and spread of radical ideology today, those are the challenges that must be faced and viewed critically, given that the influx of radicalism is fundamentally not associated with particular religions or Islam, but the political and economic interests of a country. Therefore, it is necessary to cultivate a culture that can combat the spread of radicalism, especially in ASEAN. Additionally, close interaction among ASEAN countries is also required to tackle the spread of radicalism.
On the other hand, the spread of the radical ideology through social media and the Internet has led to the declaration of supports and acts of terror such as "Lone Wolf" attacks. This condition must have a concrete impact on the security and political stability. In this matter, certain groups must feel advantaged because their efforts gain support from the community that might be the beginning or the embryo of the creation of new terror groups or new radical groups.
Responding to this, we, the Indonesian people, should support government’s efforts to control the Internet and social media by blocking the sites that disseminate radical values, especially those that are supporting terrorist acts. This measure is required to ensure the stability of the security of the state, especially after some shocking terrorist activities such as Sarinah bombing and Solo bombing that occurred some time ago. In addition, the government and all stake holders must join hands in order to combat terrorism and the spread of radical ideology today by creating needed law to regulate in detail the mass media and the Internet as well as the organization.
All Indonesian people should view deradicalization efforts wisely and not be easily provoked by humanitarian issues aimed at providing opportunities for radical groups to continue to grow in Indonesia. Let us save Indonesia from the threat of terrorism and make it a place that is full of tolerance and empathy.
*) The author is a graduate student at Gunadharma University, Jakarta
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