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42Islam, Democracy and Human Rights in Contemporary Indonesianations. This phenomena is ironic considering since the dawnof Islam, the core of the teaching of Islam has given rise tomounting hopes for the promotion and protection of humanrights. Mass media coverage has been dominating the publicin perception forming to paint an appalling picture aboutMuslims who are, at their disadvantage, often helpless incountering such repulsive news.For us, Muslims in Indonesia, it is the duty and responsibilityof ours to show to the world that Islam is a peace-loving religionand Islam is a religion respectful for human rights. We areresponsible for materializing the messages mentioned in the alQur%u2019an that %u201cyou are the best people (khaira ummah) of allhuman race, because you always lead the way for other towardsa virtuous life, and prevent them from disavowal, and be faithfulto Allah.%u201d This struggle is not easy. It will take a long andwinding road. But, losing hope holds no true for devotedMuslims. Brave should be for them to face these challenges. Inthe midst of celebrating the birth of Prophet Muhammad thisevening, there is a promising hope for us to build for a betterfuture.Allow me to conclude my remarks (hikmah maulud) thisevening, quoting the words of Allah as mentioned in al-Qur%u2019anSurah Az-Zumar verse 17-18 %u201cGive good news to My servants,who listen to My precepts and follow what is best in them. Theseare they whom Allah has guided. These are they who are enduedwith understanding.%u201dWith this I conclude my remarks. I thank you, MadamePresident, Mr. Vice President and Ladies and Gentlemen, foryour kind attention.[]