Summary
Highlights
A case of religious intolerance is reported in Tangerang, Banten, where the Christian Oikumene Fellowship (POU) was prevented from worshipping. They have reported this issue to Vice President Gibran Rakabumi Raka through the 'Lapor Mas Wapres' complaint post, hoping for a resolution.
Hundreds of Christian worshipers from POU are fighting for their right to worship, which is currently obstructed. They visited the State Palace on November 13 to appeal to Vice President Gibran Rakabumi Raka regarding their difficulties. They have faced persecution from local residents since April 30, 2024, despite their church having been established since April 30, 1995.
The congregation highlights that they do not have a proper place of worship. A building intended as a foundation office and a house of prayer has encountered significant difficulties in obtaining building permits, with the process being stalled for over a year.
On March 30, locals objected to the POU congregation using their foundation building for any activities, including prayer, even though it wasn't yet officially a house of worship. The congregation is frustrated with the permit process, which has been pending with the Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB) in Tangerang Regency for over a year.
The Tangerang Regency Government claims the issue is resolved and they are actively looking for a new location for the Tesalonika Church. They previously facilitated worship in the old sub-district hall and emphasize communication among residents to maintain religious harmony.