“Whatever has happened in Bandung, as a leader, I ask for forgiveness for the disruption of the past KKR,” said Ridwan Kamil, referring to the Christian Revival Service (KKR) which was forced to disperse by members of Pembela Ahlu Sunnah (PAS).

Speaking in front of a 3,000-strong congregation at a convention hall, Ridwan said he must be fair as a leader, and had reached an understanding with religious organisations to ensure religious freedom.

“So please [report to us], if [you] find any disturbances,” he told the congregation which was also attended by West Java police chief Inspector-General Anton Charliyan, and West Java army commander, Major General Muhammad Herindra.

On Dec 6, members of PAS gathered at the Sasana Budaya Ganesha (Sabuga) Building in Bandung to protest a service led by Rev. Stephen Tong. They later entered the building to force attendees to disperse, saying religious service should not be held in a public facility.

Following the incident, Ridwan defended the use of public buildings for religious services, saying no permit was required as long as the police were notified.

He also issued a notice to the group to apologise to the church within seven days.

“If PAS ignores this notice, the Bandung administration will ban PAS from conducting any activity in the city,” the notice read, according to Jakarta Globe.