MMNN Reflection: In a Just Nation, No One Is Above the Law

From Myanmar Muslims News Network (MMNN)

Let’s talk about something fundamental — the rule of law.

NOTE: Not Rule By Law (of the jungle, dictator or Junta)

Across the world, in countries that respect justice and uphold human dignity, there’s a clear understanding: no individual, no monk, no soldier, no civilian is above the law. Everyone is accountable. Everyone must play by the same rules.

Take Indonesia as an example — the largest Muslim-majority nation. On the island of Bali, where the majority of the population practices Hinduism and Buddhism, people live peacefully side by side with Muslims, Christians, and others. Their towns are dotted with shrines to Rama, Dasa Avatars, and Buddhist stupas. Temples that are centuries old stand next to small, humble prayer halls.

Though Muslims make up just 15% and Christians 10% of the population, the Indonesian government ensures every religious group builds with respect for law and balance. If an area is predominantly Hindu or Buddhist, naturally there are more temples. But Muslims still have their mosques — small, modest, legally built.

One local tour guide — a Buddhist — explained it best when asked about the small size of a nearby mosque:

“Most of the community here are Hindus and Buddhists, so temples are more common. But Muslims can build as needed, within the legal framework. Everyone respects the ratio.”

Religious buildings require proper approval. You can’t just build anything, anywhere. Even in a Muslim-majority country, zoning laws apply equally. Want to build a four-story tower? Not without clearance. Don’t have a congregation in that area? Then no temple or mosque permit will be granted. That’s how equality works.

And yet, despite all these restrictions, Bali is thriving. People of all faiths pray freely, eat side by side, and build their homes and businesses legally. Tourists come by the millions. Local economies grow. Halal food stalls operate alongside bars selling beer. Muslim-owned eateries are marked clearly. Non-halal vendors display pork openly on their signs. There is transparency, cleanliness, safety, and fairness.

Because of this structure, not only does the government collect more tax, but the citizens grow wealthier, too. Everyone has a place — not because of privilege, but because of principle.

The local Hindus and Buddhists don’t fear mosques being built. They welcome it when it follows the law. In Malaysia, we’ve seen Buddhist temples built by Burmese migrants, where locals join the kathina robe offerings — peacefully and respectfully. In Thailand, Muslim schools and prayer halls are built near Buddhist neighborhoods, with no friction — just mutual respect.

Even when problems arise — as they do everywhere — these countries act fast. Lawbreakers are punished, regardless of faith or robe. No need to check their uniform or title. The law is the law. And the people believe in it.

So why not us?

Why can’t Myanmar be a place where Buddhists, Muslims, Christians, and Hindus live under the same laws — equally protected, equally responsible?

Dear friends, the solution isn’t silencing one another or denying rights. It’s strengthening the rule of law and holding all accountable — monks, military, civilians, and politicians alike.

A country where no one is above the law is a country where everyone can finally live in peace.

Let’s reform. Let’s reflect. Let’s rise.

MMNN – Myanmar Muslims News Network
www.myanmarmuslim.news