Indonesia Has 700 ISIS Sympathizers: Minister

Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu.

I

Bogor, West Java, 19 Shawwal 1438/13 July 2017 (MINA) – Minister of Defense Ryamizard Ryacudu revealed that some 700 Indonesian citizens have become sympathizers for the militant group ISIS.

“In fact, there are not too many ISIS rooters in Indonesia, and the number only reaches 700 people,” Antara News reported, citing the minister in his keynote speech during the Indonesia International Defense Science Seminar in Bogor, West Java, on Wednesday.

He believed that the number is yet to be a cause of major concern, but it does not mean that the government should not take serious measures to eradicate radical influences, suspected to have been planted in the minds of sympathizers.

“In dealing with radicalism and ISIS, Indonesia uses a mindset consolidation strategy for all levels of the community by directing them to the roots of the nation, which are the cultural values that have been treasured by this country since ancient times,” he elaborated.

The former chief of the Army Staff also laid emphasis on the fact that actions in defending the state of Bela Negara hold significance, as they have the potential to strengthen the very soul and identity of a nation, ultimately repelling all forms of threats that can jeopardize the country’s sovereignty and integrity.

“It is important for all members of the community to have that type of awareness, not only as a form of mental revolution but also to serve as a strong repellent in the nation in the midst of complex threats that continue to grow in varied forms,” he reiterated.

“At the moment, it is important to realize that the nations defense does not solely rely on military approaches or the provision of main defense system tools, but it is certain that the presence of knowledge is needed in the structure of a nations defense,” Ryacudu concluded. (T/RS5/RS1)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)