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AMBON,bhayaksa.net— Though smaller than Indonesia’s sprawling metropolises, Ambon holds an extraordinary charm. Known affectionately as Ambon Manise, the city brings together diverse ethnicities, religions, and cultural backgrounds under one sky—proving that diversity is a bridge to peace, not a line of division.
This compelling message was delivered by the Acting Mayor of Ambon, Bodewin M. Wattimena, during the opening of the National Dialogue titled “Bercerita Kota Ambon – For Ambon” (Storytelling for Ambon). The event was hosted by the City Police Headquarters (Polresta) of Ambon Island and the Lease Islands.
”Ambon might be a small city, hard to compare with bigger regions. But we should be grateful that almost every tribe, religion, and ethnic group in Indonesia lives here.
This diversity isn’t an obstacle; it’s an incredible strength we must protect together,” Bodewin emphasized before the audience.
The ‘Orchestra’ Mindset: Every Role Matters
In his address, Bodewin cleverly compared building Ambon to conducting a symphony orchestra. To create beautiful harmony, every musician must play their instrument well without letting individual egos take center stage.
The same principle applies to Ambon’s residents. True unity happens when everyone complements each other instead of pushing group interests ahead of the common good.
”We all come from different backgrounds, but in Ambon, we live together, earn our living together, and go to school together. The government is here for everyone, without favoring anyone based on who they are or where they come from,” he noted.
Don’t Let Social Media Noise Shake Our Unity
Turning to the digital age, Bodewin shared a crucial word of caution regarding social media behavior. He urged citizens to stay level-headed and resist falling for provocative, racially charged statements or unverified rumors.
He reminded the public not to let the online noise of a vocal minority tear apart long-standing bonds of brotherhood.
”If just two people say something harmful on social media, why should all of us feel anxious, hurt, or alienated in our own nation?” he asked rhetorically.
He urged everyone to handle disagreements with grace and respect. Spreading speculative or unverified information, he warned, only fractures social harmony and damages community trust.
Modern Heroes: Honesty, Respect, and Environmental Care
Redefining heroism for today’s world, Bodewin highlighted that fighting for one’s city no longer means holding weapons. Today’s heroes build their community through honesty, respecting the law, and making meaningful contributions.
Citizens were encouraged to be positive history-makers rather than individuals who tarnish the city’s reputation. Alongside nurturing unity, preserving nature and keeping the city clean are essential shared responsibilities.
Through this dialogue organized by Polresta Ambon, local leaders hope to foster a shared vision across all communities to keep Ambon safe, peaceful, and sustainable.
”If every party carries out their responsibilities well, believe me, Ambon will grow even better. A peaceful, tolerant, and sustainable Ambon—that is our shared dream,” Bodewin concluded with optimism.
Reporter: Milan Conny Manuputy
Editor: Tim bhayaksa.net
