Islam in Indonesia
Indonesia stands as the world’s largest Muslim-majority democracy and the most populous country in Southeast Asia. Since its democratic transition in 1998, it has demonstrated the compatibility of Islam and democracy, serving as a model for the region and contributing to the strengthening of democratic values within ASEAN.

Home to over 280 million people (as of 2024)—with approximately 230 million Muslims— Indonesia represents a significant portion of the global Muslim population, which now 1.9 billion. This makes Indonesia the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation, surpassing other populous Muslim communities such as India (over 200 million), Pakistan (over 240 million), and Bangladesh (over 170 million). In contrast, the Middle East, often perceived as the heartland of Islam, accounts for only a fraction of the world’s Muslims. This demographic reality positions Indonesia as a key player in both the Muslim and global arenas.

While Indonesia is not an Islamic state, it is a nation with a Muslim majority, where religious freedom is enshrined in the constitution. As one of the world’s most pluralistic societies, Indonesia has a long history of fostering religious harmony. Indonesian Islam has evolved alongside modernity, driven by scholars, intellectuals, and policymakers who continually shape an Islamic discourse that supports national progress. Islamic educational institutions, civil organizations, and political movements actively engage in the pursuit of social and economic development, not only for Muslims but for the nation as a whole.

Indonesia has also played a crucial role in advocating for human rights and resolvingreligious conflicts in the region, including in the Philippines, Thailand, and Myanmar. On the global stage, it serves as an inspiration for developing countries—especially those undergoing democratic transitions. While many nations have struggled with modernization and democratization, Indonesia has successfully navigated these challenges.

The ability of Indonesian Islam to adapt to changing times has deep historical roots. In the
early 20th century, as Muslim societies grappled with the formation of modern nation-states,
Indonesia managed to strike a balance between religious identity and nationalism. While
debates on state ideology existed, Islamic groups ultimately supported the foundation of a
pluralistic nation-state, embracing nationalism as part of their identity. 

This inclusive and progressive approach has led to sustained development and a stronger
position for Indonesia among Muslim-majority countries. Today, Indonesian Muslims
continue to prove that plurality, openness, and tolerance are key pillars of a thriving
democracy. 

Indonesia’s journey is a rare and remarkable transformation in the Islamic world—one that
offers valuable lessons on how Islam, modernity, and progress can coexist. It stands as a
living example of how religion can contribute positively to societal transformation and global
peace.