TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) deputy secretary-general Amirsyah Tambunan condemned politicization of religion practiced by certain groups.

“[Politicization of religion] is a blasphemy,” he told Tempo on Tuesday, December 26.

Amirsyah added that politicization of religion for certain groups is beyond haram. Amirsyah called on leaders to learn and practice religious values.

“Therefore, religion must not be used for political purposes,” he said.

Amirsyah argues that religion cannot be separated from life. He went on saying that religion is a moral ethical foundation in every aspect of life, including politics.

Islamic law expert Afifuddin Muhajir said during a seminar in Bondowoso, East Java echoed Amirsyah’s statement saying that using religions for political purposes is prohibited in Islam.

Afifuddin called on the public to remain optimistic in improving the condition of the country.

CHITRA PARAMAESTI