Collaboration indispensable in nurturing anti-corruption: Minister

Cross-sectoral collaboration in society is the key in the crusade against corruption, the common enemy of mankind, according to Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas.

“Corruption is our common enemy. Hence, unified and comprehensive measures are deemed necessary for nurturing anti-corruption behavior, and this must start from the familial level,” Qoumas stated in a written statement received here, Thursday.

Nurturing anti-corruption habits must start from an early age, and family and educational institutions play a major role in teaching the values, the minister emphasized.

The role of families and schools is indispensable, as family is the first place of learning for children, and school is the place where anti-corruption values, such as integrity, humility, and fear of doing bad things, are instilled in children, he added.

“Parents must serve as a role model for their children, as exemplary conduct and family education is the primary foundation in developing anti-corruption behavior,” Qoumas affirmed.

The minister expressed optimism that International Anti-corruption Day, commemorated every December 9, would raise public awareness and efforts in tackling corruption crimes.

Moreover, the ministry’s director general of Islamic Community Guidance M. Fuad Nasar stated that apart from the current times, efforts to eradicate corruption are important for the future generation and the country.

“We must always say no to corruption, and this must start from everyone. Islam also perceives corruption as an extraordinary crime that needs to be obliterated,” Nasar stated.

The legal, religious, and cultural approach in eradicating corruption must continue simultaneously, the director general emphasized.

He highlighted the role played by late Indonesian human rights activist H. S. Dillon, who contributed to the establishment of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and collaborated with major Islamic organizations Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah and called for emulating it in the anti-corruption struggle in Indonesia.

“Religious figures must place themselves at the front line in promoting and defending anti-corruption values in the society,” Nasar affirmed002E

 

Source: Antara News