Alexander R. Arifianto is a research fellow with the Indonesia Programme, S Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
Christians in Asian nations such as Pakistan and Sri Lanka prepare to celebrate Christmas amid violence and financial crisis. A bright new year looms for other nations despite everyday struggles for freedoms and rights.
One of Indonesia's most respected religious scholars is being remembered for his drive to promote diversity in the Muslim-majority country. Ahmad Syafi'i Ma'arif, who passed away on May 27 at the age of 86, was known for his vision of inclusive Islam, a progressive attitude and a true champion of pluralism in the country. Affectionately known as "Buya" a.