Jakarta – Said Aqil Siradj, the chief of Indonesia's largest Muslim organization Nahdlatul Ulama, said Sunday that 19 "local" religions across the country have requested the government for recognition in addition to the six sanctioned religions; Islam, Protestantism, Catholicism, Hinduism, Buddhism and Confucianism.

"It is about time for the state to take action – as part of its social contract. The state must be wise in handling the matter," he said Sunday as quoted by kompas.com.

NU supports pluralism, including in religious activities. However, the government must ensure its people believe in one god, added Said.