Jakarta. A British diplomat claimed that the riot-struck UK would remain welcoming to international visitors, including those from Muslim-majority Indonesia. 

Several British cities have been witnessing protests by far-right agitators. Rioters had set fire to hotels housing asylum seekers. Protesters have also been targeting UK mosques. The violent disorder followed the recent fatal stabbing of three children in Southport. But false claims had spread online that the culprit was a Muslim asylum seeker.

In a press statement, British Deputy Ambassador to Indonesia Matthew Downing condemned the “mindless thuggery and hooliganism”, while adding that they were carried out by a minority of people. 

“I also want to reassure the people of Indonesia that visitors to the UK remain warmly welcome,” Downing said Tuesday. 

“Britain is a tolerant, open and multicultural country, and what you are witnessing does not represent British values. The UK government has been clear that we will not, as a country, tolerate attacks on mosques, on Muslim communities or against anyone because of their religion or the color of their skin,” Downing said. 

According to Downing, the criminals --including those who have incited the disorder online-- will face legal consequences. 

Indonesia is home to the world’s largest Muslim population. The UK saw 38 million inbound visits throughout 2023.