The Indonesian Employers Association (Apindo) has spoken out regarding the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) issuing a fatwa prohibiting the purchase of products from manufacturers supporting Israel's aggression against Palestine. Apindo's Chairman of the Trade Department, Benny Soetrisno, stated that this step is evidence of Indonesia's government concern regarding Israel's occupation of Palestine.

However, Benny believes that if this action continues in the long term, it could potentially lead to the collapse of various companies in Indonesia suspected of supporting Israel's aggression. This, in turn, could result in numerous cases of layoffs and an increase in unemployment domestically.

"The MUI's move is fine and is an expression of our empathy for the civilian population of Palestine in Gaza. However, if it persists in the long term, it is highly likely to lead to many cases of layoffs, but it must be accompanied by MUI's efforts to urge the public," Benny added.

Nevertheless, he mentioned that there have been no reports of the impact of this boycott from businesses at present. "To the best of my knowledge, there has been no disruption, and people are still buying products informed to be associated with Israel," Benny concluded.

Earlier, MUI's Chairman of the Fatwa Department, Asrorun Niam Sholeh, stated that supporting freedom is a legal obligation, while supporting Israel and its advocates is considered forbidden. Niam emphasized that supporting parties known to endorse Israel's aggression, either directly or indirectly, such as by purchasing products from manufacturers openly supporting Israel, is deemed haram.

This fatwa was deliberated as a manifestation of MUI's religious responsibility in responding to Israel's aggression against Palestine, posing a threat to humanity. On the other hand, there are parties trying to express empathy and support for Israel, both directly and indirectly, including efforts by some to discredit those supporting Palestinian independence.

Niam urged Muslims to avoid transactions and the use of Israeli products and those affiliated with Israel, as well as those supporting colonization and Zionism. "Supporting the independence of Palestine is now considered obligatory. Therefore, we must not support parties opposing Palestine, including the use of products that demonstrably support the killing of Palestinian civilians," said Niam.

Fatwa Number 83 of 2023 Regarding the Law of Support for Palestine also recommends that the government take firm steps to support the Palestinian struggle. This includes diplomatic efforts at the United Nations to stop the war and impose sanctions on Israel, sending humanitarian aid, and mobilizing OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) countries to press Israel to cease its aggression.