Religion

Indonesia has been under the influence of all great religions of the world over the centuries.

Nowadays Islam is the predominant religion, but it is also influenced by elements of Hindu-Buddhism, "adat" and animism. About 10% are Christians while the minority believe in Hinduism, Buddhism or Animism. Atheism is not prevalent in Indonesia. To obtain an identity card Indonesians have to specify their religion first.

Mesjid Raya in Medan, the capital of Sumatra

While in the past the several religions coexisted in peace and friendliness, the last few years terrible religious violence has occurred. The first victims where the mostly Christian ethnic Chinese. A lot of them were killed and Chinese women were raped and molested. On Maluku also there has been and still is religious turmoil. Thousands have been killed. The ancient family ties, called "pela" have been broken by the violence.