Author: is a Political Science student at Airlangga University and an intern at Commission A of the East Java Provincial Regional House of Representatives (DPRD).
SURABAYA, JurnalPost.com – Member of Commission A of the East Java Provincial DPRD from the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) faction, Erick Komala, S.H., M.H., received an award from the Mitra Kasih Damai Sejahtera Foundation on Wednesday (28/10/2026). The award, presented in conjunction with Youth Pledge Day, serves as an appreciation for his dedication and contributions to strengthening tolerance, supporting religious life, and advocating for freedom of worship in East Java.
Erick Komala, often called Bro Erick, is a member of the East Java Provincial DPRD for the 2024–2029 term. In carrying out his duties as a representative of the people, he focuses on the importance of equal rights to worship and the creation of a harmonious society amidst religious, cultural, and belief diversity.
One of his key areas of focus is the utilization of government grant programs to assist in the construction and repair of houses of worship. According to Erick, these programs provide significant benefits to the community, particularly in supporting renovations and the provision of facilities and infrastructure for places of worship.
He noted that many houses of worship still require repairs but face budget constraints or difficulties in obtaining assistance from donors. Therefore, government support is considered essential so that the community can carry out religious activities more comfortably.
Erick hopes that the distribution of aid for houses of worship can be carried out fairly and equitably, whether for churches, mosques, prayer rooms, or other places of worship, without discriminating based on the religious background of the beneficiaries.
Strengthening Harmony Amidst Diversity
Beyond addressing the needs of houses of worship, Erick emphasizes the importance of building communication and strengthening relationships between community groups to prevent conflicts stemming from religious or cultural differences.
According to him, the diversity found in East Java must be maintained through mutual respect, openness, and dialogue spaces that involve various elements of society.
He cited the 'Kenduri Kebangsaan' (National Feast) and 'Wawasan Kebangsaan' (National Insight) activities as platforms to bring together people from diverse backgrounds. Through these events, community organizations can discuss issues, broaden their understanding of tolerance, and strengthen their commitment to maintaining national unity.
Erick believes that harmonious social relations cannot be built solely through government policy but also require active community involvement in daily life.
Ongoing fellowship and communication are considered vital to reducing misunderstandings while building mutual trust amidst differences.
Encouraging Students to Become Drivers of Tolerance
On this occasion, Erick also delivered a message to students, particularly those active in faith-based student organizations.
He hopes that student organizations will continue to prioritize an open attitude toward diversity, even while maintaining their specific religious identities and values.
According to him, differences in belief should not be a barrier to building communication, accepting input, or collaborating on activities that benefit the community.
As the younger generation, students are expected to be drivers of tolerance by applying the values of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity), respecting differences of opinion, and maintaining good relationships with others.
Erick also reminded the audience of the importance of maintaining the spirit of unity inherited from the Youth Pledge. For him, this spirit remains relevant for facing the challenges of an increasingly diverse Indonesian society.
His core message is that unity must be continuously maintained through mutual respect and cooperation among all elements of society.
The award from the Mitra Kasih Damai Sejahtera Foundation serves as a momentum to reaffirm the importance of the roles of government, community organizations, and the younger generation in creating a safe, inclusive environment that respects every citizen's freedom to worship according to their religion and beliefs.
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