Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council Anwar Iskandar Urges Strengthening Unity Amid Global Turmoil

Anwar Iskandar, the General Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), has urged all elements of the nation to strengthen unity and intensify spiritual endeavour amid the evolving dynamics of global geopolitics and geo-economics. Anwar said that Indonesia should continue to maintain good relations with various countries through the long-held principles of its foreign policy. ‘I think we understand what our President is doing in pursuing a policy of freedom and neutrality in foreign policy. In other words, we will not make enemies with any country or anyone, but will increase friends and partners around the world,’ he said in Jakarta, as cited by Antara on Friday (6 March 2026). He noted that the international situation currently shows conflicts and tensions in several regions of the world that could have wider impacts on various countries, including Indonesia. ‘Furthermore, the most important thing for us is how to safeguard our country, our nation, and our people. That is the most crucial,’ he added. Anwar also stressed that maintaining national stability requires the unity of all components of society. According to him, ulama, the government, and the defence and security apparatus must continue to work in synergy to safeguard national safety and resilience. Anwar Iskandar was one of the participants in the President’s Silaturahmi with Kyai and leaders of Islamic community organisations at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Thursday (5 March 2026). In that event, Anwar also urged the public to increase prayers and draw closer to God Almighty, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. Such spiritual efforts are considered important as an endeavour to seek safety for the nation, its leaders, and all Indonesians, so they are spared from calamities occurring in various parts of the world. Concluding his remarks, the MUI General Chairman stressed that in facing increasingly complex global challenges, Indonesia has no option but to join hands, close ranks, and maintain unity. Through unity and prayer, he hopes Indonesia will continually receive assistance and protection from God Almighty.