PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The Bandung City Regional Government (Pemda) held a gathering event with Christian religious figures ahead of the 2024 Christmas celebrations at the Bandung City Hall, Tuesday (17/12/2024).

This event was attended by regional officials, the Bandung City DPRD, religious figures, and representatives of Christians and Catholics in Bandung City.

In a friendly atmosphere, this activity aims to strengthen tolerance between religious communities and maintain harmony in the city of Bandung.

Acting Regional Secretary of Bandung City, Dharmawan, assessed that religious harmony is the main capital in building the city.

He also appreciated the role of religious figures who have kept the city of Bandung conducive during various important moments, such as elections, regional elections, and before the inauguration of new regional heads.

"Hopefully we can continue to maintain this condition so that it becomes valuable capital for the new government in implementing its programs," said Dharmawan.

Dharmawan added that religious harmony in Bandung City has been concluded through the existing Tolerance Village. This village reflects the high level of togetherness and mutual cooperation of residents regardless of ethnicity, religion, and race.

"This can be established well thanks to the role of the Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB) and the support of all religious figures who continue to maintain harmony in this city," he added.

In addition, Dharmawan reminded the importance of maintaining the cleanliness of the city, especially during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. The volume of garbage usually increases drastically during the New Year celebrations.

"Currently, we have succeeded in reducing waste shipments to the Sarimukti TPA according to the target. However, I invite religious leaders to also socialize the community to maintain cleanliness and support better waste management," he said.

"Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2025. May God's love always be with us all, and may the city of Bandung become better," he concluded.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Communion of Local Indonesian Churches (PGIS) of Bandung City, Reverend Yosafat Simatupang explained the deep meaning of this year's Christmas theme, "Let us now go to Bethlehem." According to him, Bethlehem symbolizes humility and struggle that are worthy of emulation.

"Hopefully this spirit inspires us to work together to build a better Bandung City. City development requires struggle and cooperation from all parties," he said.

Meanwhile, the representative of the Catholic community, Father Yohanes Surono, also conveyed the commitment of Catholics to caring for the earth as a real action of Christmas reflection.

"We want to collaborate with various parties, including across religions, to protect the environment of Bandung City," he said.

This gathering event is a manifestation of togetherness and commitment of all parties in maintaining harmony and tolerance in the city of Bandung. With the spirit of Christmas, it is hoped that the city of Bandung will be more harmonious, peaceful, and prosperous.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Bandung City Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB), Ahmad Suherman, said that Christmas is a momentum to live in love and share with others.

"Christmas celebrations encourage us to walk together with full brotherhood and compassion in order to realize a harmonious, peaceful and harmonious city of Bandung," he said.

He also appreciated the role of the Bandung City Government and the committee in organizing this event well. (Bandung City Communication and Information Service/Revo)