MULTI CULTURE AND ITS IMPLICATIONS TOWARD VARIOUS SOCIAL CONFLICTS IN INDONESIA

Abstract

Theoretically, multi culture is a potential culture that can reflect a national identity. While historically, multi culture is a component that is essential in the establishment of the Republic of Indonesia. In addition, multi culture can also be a cultural capital and a cultural power that drive the dynamics of the nation’s life. However, on the other hand, multi culture also has the potential to give rise to a conflict that could threaten national integration because the conflict between cultures can lead to clashes among ethnic groups, religion, and races which are very sensitive and vulnerable. This condition can surely harm the nation’s integration. It may occur if the conflict is not controlled and resolved wisely. In the last two decades, various social conflicts caused by multi-culture is increasing, in terms of both quality and quantity. Various social conflicts such as in Aceh, Timika (Papua), Ambon (Maluku), Pontianak (West Kalimantan), Sampit-Mataram (NTB), Poso (Central Sulawesi) and Mesuji (Lampung) are examples of cases of social conflicts caused by ethnic and religious clashes, and/or between races that occurred in various regions in Indonesia. Thus, social conflict is an inevitable thing in our social life. Therefore, one thing that needs to be done is how the conflicts can be controlled and resolved peacefully and wisely, so they do not cause social disintegration in the life of society, nation and state.

Keywords: Multi culture, implication, social conflict, Indonesia.