F-PKB MPR: Social Solidarity Important as Foundation of National Life
Jakarta — The head of the Islamic Renaissance Party (F-PKB) faction in Indonesia’s People’s Consultative Assembly, Neng Eem Marhamah Zulfa Hiz, has emphasised the importance of strengthening social solidarity within society as a foundation for maintaining the continuity of national and state life.
According to her, mutual care and attentiveness between fellow citizens are essential elements in maintaining social cohesion, particularly amid the dynamics of social change and shifting lifestyles.
“The feeling of being attentive to and being attended to is important. This forms a strong social foundation for maintaining the existence of the Indonesian nation and state,” said Neng Eem in a statement in Jakarta on Tuesday.
She assessed that the holy month of Ramadan serves as a moment for society to reflect and control various consumer desires whilst increasing concern for the social conditions around them.
“Ramadan gives us pause to reconsider these desires. One way to be wise in addressing them is by sharing with others,” she said.
Beyond strengthening social solidarity, Neng Eem also reminded of the importance of the role of activists and young people in safeguarding national values rooted in Islamic teachings.
As a former head of the Women’s Corps of the Islamic Student Movement of Indonesia (KOPRI PMII), she called on activists to remain critical in responding to various developments of the times.
“Activists must remain critical in all situations so as not to be easily misled or influenced by new trends,” she said.
She conveyed that such critical thinking is necessary so that young people can maintain their commitment to national values whilst wisely responding to social change.
The statement was made by Neng Eem during an iftar and fellowship gathering titled “Prayer of Love: Qur’an Recitation Completion, Orphan Assistance, and Collective Supplication” held in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta, on Sunday (8 March), together with orphans as well as officials and members of the Alumni Association of the Islamic Student Movement of Indonesia (IKA PMII).
She hoped that religious activities coupled with social action could serve as a space to strengthen bonds whilst consolidating social concern within society.