The growing force of Islamic conservatism, which dominated the political scene in recent years and divided the nation, has sparked concerns in a country where many still uphold the “Pancasila” – a constitutional ideology that places emphasis on religious tolerance and unity in diversity. Analysts such as RSIS visiting fellow Dr Noor Huda Ismail pointed out that the rise of religion-based politics and conservatism started after the downfall of former president Suharto’s dictatorial regime in 1998. RSIS research fellow Dr Alexander Arifianto noted that identity politics came to the fore in this year’s elections.