Muslims and Tolerance—Non-Muslim Minorities Under Shariah in Indonesia

Indonesia's Reformasi era ushered in a new atmosphere of political openness, and among the ideas now being discussed is the implementation of Islamic law or shariah. Pramono U. Tanthowi begins with the question, "Does Islam tolerate non-Muslim minorities?" considering it from historical, political, and religious perspectives within the Indonesian context. Although the central government has not instituted Islamic law nationally, the local government of Cianjur regency in Sunda (West Java) has adopted certain aspects. Using Cianjur as a case study, Tanthowi surveys the views of non-Muslims on shariah as it has been applied over the last several years.

Pramano U. Tanthowi is served as executive director of the Center for the Study of Religion and Civilization, Central Board of Muhammadiyah, as political advisor to the deputy chair of the Indonesian parliament, and as project officer of the Muhammadiyah Institute for Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Program.