REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- The Communion of Churches in Jayapura regency (PGGJ) filed a protested against the construction of Al Aqsa Sentani mosque in the region. Built in the religious harmony zone, the mosque's activity has disrupted the integrity pact, PGGJ said.

PGGJ chairman reverend Robbi Depondoye observed that during the last four decade there has been a feeling of discomfort in the society. He assessed tolerance in Kenambai Umbai as the land of Christ's gospel civilization has been responded wrongfully by other religious believers.

Robbi said the call for prayers (adzan) voiced over loudspeaker did not respect Christians living nearby. The Muslims have also build mosque without communicating it first. 

Therefore, PGGJ urged the construction of mosque tower to be stopped and demolished. The height of mosque also must be lowered, not higher than the churches building in the surrounding area.

PGGJ has also reported the case to local government to solve the problem in accordance to the rule and perssuasive manner. "We ask the demolishion of the construction to be done in 14 days or until March 3," he said in a press release received by Republika.co.id on Saturday.

PGGJ explained the communion also has decided to announce the church's attitude towards Muslims activities, as listed bellow:

1. Adzan that usually voiced through the loud speaker to public should be directed into the mosque.

2. Preach is not allowed in the entire Papua province, especially in Jayapura regency.

3. The students at public schools do not wear uniforms or clothing with certain religious nuances.

4. There should be no special space such as mushala (prayer room) on public facilities such as schools, hospitals, markets, terminals and government offices.

5. PGGJ will protect Bank Tabungan Negara housing area so there will be no construction of mosques and mushala.

6. The construction of worship houses in Jayapura regency must earn recommendation form PGGJ, local government, and the local people right's owners in accordance with government regulations.

7. The height of the building of houses of worship and other religious towers should not exceed the height of the existing church building.

8. Government and House of Representatives (DPR) Jayapura are obliged to formulate regional government regulations draft by law (Raperda) on the harmony of religious communities in Jayapura District.

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