Coordinating Minister AHY: Nationalism is crucial foundation for addressing Middle East conflict
Jakarta — Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has stated that nationalist and religious values, including Islam, form an important foundation in Indonesia for addressing the conflict in the Middle East.
“I believe there are many things we can do together, because Indonesia is a large and highly diverse nation. The world is not in good condition at present; what is happening in the Middle East is truly alarming and should make us all more grateful that Indonesia is in a state of peace, but we must not take this for granted as a permanent condition,” said Coordinating Minister AHY in an official statement in Jakarta on Wednesday.
He emphasised the importance of maintaining the spirit of collaboration between government and society, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.
“The combination of Islamic values and nationalism forms an important foundation in shaping generations that are religious, of strong character, and possessed of a spirit of patriotism,” he said.
Speaking as a lecturer at a public lecture event with the Indonesian Islamic Preaching Institute (LDII) at Minhajurrosyidin Islamic Boarding School (pesantren) in Jakarta, AHY also stressed the importance of developing human resources with a priority on education.
“Although Indonesia has abundant natural resources, the nation’s progress is still greatly determined by the quality of its human resources. I believe LDII has a strong track record in developing education and community social activities that contribute to the nation,” said AHY.
Coordinating Minister AHY appreciated LDII’s role in promoting Islamic preaching that is solid in Islamic jurisprudence, yet remains in harmony with national values. During the visit, he also inspected the educational facilities within the pesantren.
“The development of educational facilities such as that being undertaken at Minhajurrosyidin Islamic Boarding School is an important step in producing young generations with quality education, strong character, and the ability to face various global challenges,” he said.
Meanwhile, LDII Central Board Chairman KH Chriswanto Santoso appreciated Coordinating Minister AHY’s visit, which he said was able to provide motivation for the Islamic students.
“We hope this visit can provide inspiration and drive the students to continue developing into individuals with dedication and contribution to the nation and state,” said Chriswanto.
He expressed hope that the presence of this national figure could spur LDII to continue developing and making contributions to the nation and state.
“I hope this synergy becomes an extraordinary force for one, maintaining national unity; two, building the nation forward; and third, sustaining Indonesia as the best it can be,” he said.