Social identity theory, system of symbols, religion and violence

Abstract

Yogyakarta, like other cities in Indonesia, is inhabited by Tionghoa minority which has contributed significantly to the city’s economic growth. However, the number of conflicts between Pribumi (Native Indonesians) and Tionghoa in Yogyakarta is minimal, even when the government’s ambiguous policy towards the Tionghoa reached its climax during the New Order (Orde Baru) Regime. The following research was conducted as a qualitative study in order to discover the sources of peace in the relationship between Pribumi and Tionghoa in Yogyakarta. Data regarding perception, attitude, and behavior in the relationship was analyzed at the intra-ethnic, inter-ethnic and national levels. Although this analysis provides only a general framework, it is a sufficient conflict management model to avoid potential conflict between the Pribumi and The Tionghoa in Yogyakarta.

The domination of Javanese culture in Yogyakarta resulted in typical Javanese perceptions, attitudes and behaviors between Pribumi and Tionghoa at the intra-ethnic and inter-ethnic levels. The Tionghoa were accepted as neighbors (a form of Pribumi solidarity) because they adopted Javanese culture, language and norms-based attitudes. Non-solidarity appeared in public places where the state norms and rules were applied, such as educational institutions. This study shows that ethnic difference, linked with religious sentiment creates the pontential for conflict between The Pribumi and The Tionghoa in public sphere. Government rules produces certain perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors towards The Tionghoa that may be spread to the inter-ethnic relationship. As such, a conflict prevention system that is based on community need and initiative should be developed as an alternative to the dominant culture in the event that the dominant culture can no longer prevent the conflict