The national emblem of the Republic of Indonesia – “Garuda Pancasila” is adorned with the words Bhineka Tunggal Ika- that means Unity in Diversity.
The concept of Bhineka Tunggal Ika was started during the 8th-9th centuries in Central Java to create an understanding between Hinduism and Buddhism. Classic example is Candi Shiwa – Buddha temple.
Afterwards King Airlangga made use of it in the 11th century. However it was Mpu Tantular the court poet of the Majapahit kingdom who propagated: Bhineka Tunggal Ika during the reign of King Hayam Wuruk through his poem Sutasoma. Thus a solid foundation was laid for the Majapahit kingdom. A kingdom that united most of present day Indonesia for the first time.
When the wave of nationalism swept over Asia in 20th century once again the Indonesia leaders found the need to unite. In the struggle for independence in 20th once again the leaders promoted unification by using the ancient motto of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. In modern times the Republic of Indonesia has made Bhineka Tunggal Ika – Unity in Diversity as a national emblem. It declares the essential unity of its members despite ethnic, regional, social or religious differences.
