Ambon, March 5 -- The concept of " Ale rasa beta rasa, " which advocates mutual respect, is well-known by the people of Maluku region. After all, they all have been striving to maintain strong bonds of brotherhood for 25 years now.

For the people of Maluku, or Moluccans, " Ale rasa beta rasa " is much more than a saying that promotes friendship and brotherhood: it underlines a peace that was forged in the aftermath of a tragic episode in the past.

January 19, 1999, is not a date that Moluccans can easily forget. On that day, a violent conflict broke out in the region, disrupting people's unity.

However, since Moluccans share the same understanding of brotherhood, the conflict did not spawn prolonged resentment. Instead, it pushed Maluk...