Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Affirms Pesantren as Bulwark of Indonesian Harmony

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Romo Muhammad Syafii has affirmed that pesantren possess a strategic role as a bulwark of Indonesian harmony, a statement made during the “Pesantren Iftar” activities at Al Quran and Nurani Sciences Pesantren (PPQS) in Jakarta on Wednesday.

“The characteristic of pesantren is inclusivity, and this is precisely what the Indonesian state requires. Our duty as students is to build Indonesia and safeguard the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia,” said Romo Syafii.

At the event themed “Safeguarding Indonesian Harmony from Pesantren,” Romo Muhammad Syafii noted that the inclusive religious traditions within pesantren serve as an important foundation for the life of a diverse nation.

He explained that pesantren existed long before the establishment of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia and played a significant role in the struggle for independence. That role has continued to the present day in preserving national unity and territorial integrity.

According to him, history records that Islamic scholars and pesantren alumni also played an important role in safeguarding the nation’s direction following independence. One significant milestone was the Jihad Resolution on 22 October 1945, which is now commemorated as Santri Day.

“Islamic scholars and pesantren alumni worked to safeguard the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia, culminating in 22 October 1945, known as the Jihad Resolution and Santri Day,” he said.

Romo Syafii emphasised that life in pesantren shapes the character of students who become accustomed to living in diversity. This value of inclusivity represents an important strength in nurturing Indonesian unity.

“Pesantren alumni are already accustomed to differences. Difference is inherent nature and diversity is the character of Indonesia that must be preserved in accordance with Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,” he said, referring to Indonesia’s national motto.

The open and inclusive attitude fostered in the pesantren environment is greatly needed in national life. Students are expected to continue playing an active role in building Indonesia whilst safeguarding its unity against various forces that could undermine national integrity.

Meanwhile, Pesantren Director Basnang Said explained that the Ministry of Religious Affairs continues to strengthen services and development of pesantren. Beyond performing educational functions, pesantren are also encouraged to undertake preaching and community empowerment functions as mandated by law.

“There must be among us those who possess tafaqquh fiddin (deep understanding of religion), but alongside this there must also be students with expertise in other fields,” said Basnang.