A. The Diversity of the Indonesian Nation
Bhinneka Tunggal Ika means “different but still one.” Diversity is a national reality that cannot be denied its existence to encourage the creation of peace in the life of the nation and state. Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is needed because Indonesia is an area prone to conflict. This is due to the many different tribes, cultures, religions, and ethnicities.
B. The Importance of the Concept of National Integration
1. Definition of National Integration
National integration of the Indonesian nation means the desire and awareness to unite as a nation, officially become a single nation, and be realized in a national agreement or consensus through the Youth Pledge on October 28, 1928.
2. Integration Terms
- Community members feel that they have succeeded in filling each other’s needs.
- The creation of a mutual agreement (consensus) regarding social norms and values that are preserved and used as guidelines.
- Social norms and values are used as standard rules in carrying out the process of social integration
C. Factors Shaping National Integration
1. The Forming Factors of National Integration
- There is a sense of destiny and struggle caused by historical factors.
- The existence of a national ideology is reflected in the symbol of the State, namely Garuda Pancasila and the motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.
- There is a determination and desire to unite among the Indonesian people as stated in the Youth Pledge.
- etc
2. Inhibiting Factors of National Integration
- Lack of respect for heterogeneous pluralism.
- Lack of tolerance between groups.
- Lack of awareness of the Indonesian people against external threats and disturbances.
D. Challenges in Maintaining the Integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia;
There are two challenges that must be faced to maintain the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia, namely:
1. Global challenges
Challenges that come from the dynamics of international politics such as UN policies, etc
2. Internal challenges
Challenges that come from within the country such as separatism, etc
E. Participation of Citizens in Maintaining Unity and Unity
Nation
1. Citizen Awareness
All Indonesian people must have the awareness to always maintain the unity and integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia
2. Definition of State Defense
State defense is the attitude and behavior of citizens who are inspired by their love for the Republic of Indonesia based on Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution, in ensuring the survival of the nation and state.
Every citizen is obliged to participate in defending the country from all kinds of threats, disturbances, challenges, and obstacles both from outside and from within.
3. Willingness of Citizens to Defend the Country
Among the forms of state defense that can be carried out by the people include:
- Study citizenship education
- Attend basic military training
- Serving as the Indonesian National Army
- Serve according to expertise or profession