Triggering a tragedy in Wamena is what the police call a "hoax" on racism that has become viral. Jakarta denounces infiltration of independence movements in the demonstrations. Students attack security forces in Jayapura: four people are killed in the clashes.
Fires have been raging in the Indonesia for more than a month, fuelled by the dry season. Indonesia’s president visited Riau province, the most affected along with Kalimantan. “We have all the means to deal with this disaster, but some have not yet performed as well as they should," the president said.
A young lecturer at an Indonesian Islamic State University sparks controversy claiming in his doctoral thesis that sex outside marriage is possible for Muslims. As a result of hate messages, he has backed off, saying that it is a sin according to Islamic tradition.
The Archbishop of Jakarta will receive the red biretta in the consistory of 5 October. This morning, he met the media at the diocesan headquarters. For the prelate, “the Holy Father wanted to honour the nation, certainly not to my personal achievements". Local Catholics are "a good model" for peace, tolerance and compassion.
On 5 October, Pope Francis will hold a consistory for the future cardinal and twelve other prelates. Muslims and Protestants share Catholics’ satisfaction. His distinctive traits are humility, insight and spiritual depth, says Mgr Yustinus Harjosusanto.
In the past two weeks, protest rallies against racism have taken place in Indonesia’s eastern province, fuelling pro-independence sentiments. Two days ago, clashes in Deiyai's regency left one soldier and two civilians dead. Jakarta blames fake news for the violence.
Low risks of natural disasters and strategic position are the factors behind the choice. The new city will cost around US$ 32.8 billion. For President Widodo, Jakarta has become completely overwhelmed as the centre of the country’s administration.
In St Joseph parish in Pringsewu, over 200 priests and thousands of faithful attended the service in which ten new fathers of the Sacred Heart of Jesus made their perpetual profession. “Your vital mission is to bring peace and spiritual comfort to others,” Bishop Harun told them. The meeting with a parish priest and a father’s encouragement helped the vocation of two new Jakarta priests.
Tensions rise in Sorong, Jayapura and Manokwari. Protesters attack and set fire to some public buildings. Two days ago, 43 Papuan students were arrested for not celebrating Indonesian independence.
The festivities began three days ago with a procession. Yesterday, a solemn mass was held at the Cathedral of Saint Gemma Galgani. OSA missionaries arrived in West Kalimantan from Heemstede (Netherlands) on 6 December 1949. Over the years, they opened a hospital, six rural clinics and as many schools.
Fr J.B. Heru Prakosa, a Jesuit and expert on Islam, spoke at the National Missionary Congress (Jakarta, 1-4 August) where he urged Catholics to leave their "comfort zone". Young Catholics are involved in pastoral outreach dedicated to the “common good”.
The condemned are all in late adolescence or 20 years old and include a Buddhist. The police caught him inside a hotel room, with a woman who is not his wife. About 98% of the five million residents in the province are Muslims. Those who are not, can choose between corporal punishment and prison.
Subscribe to the newsletter to receive verified news, analysis and insights from Asian countries every week.
Subscribeto the newsletter
