Gibran Emphasises Importance of Interfaith Harmony During Visit to Annajah Pesantren in Boyolali

Harmony is the key to the nation’s strength. Indonesia gained independence through unity and solidarity. These values must continue to be upheld and passed on,” Jakarta (ANTARA) - Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia Gibran Rakabuming emphasised the importance of maintaining interfaith harmony and social harmony during his Eid al-Fitr 1447 H courtesy visit to Annajah Dawar Pesantren in Boyolali Regency, Central Java, on Friday.

“Harmony is the key to the nation’s strength. Indonesia gained independence through unity and solidarity. These values must continue to be upheld and passed on,” said Vice President Gibran in a statement quoted from the BPMI of the Vice Presidential Secretariat in Jakarta.

During the visit, the Vice President affirmed the strategic role of pesantrens in nurturing national unity. He encouraged all elements of society to continue instilling values of harmony and social solidarity in everyday life.

Gibran conveyed that values of togetherness and tolerance must be continuously strengthened as the main foundation of community life. Strengthening this harmony is considered very important to face the evolving global dynamics full of challenges.

“The Vice President’s directive is clear, we all must maintain harmony. Amid ongoing conflicts in various parts of the world, including the Middle East, we are expected to continue strengthening connectivity and harmony among citizens,” said the Coordinator of Annajah Dawar Pesantren, Sumanto.

The Vice President’s presence was directly welcomed by Boyolali Regent Agus Irawan as well as the pesantren caretakers located in Mojosongo Village, as part of strengthening ties between the government and ulama and santri circles.

In that meeting, the Vice President held a special dialogue with the pesantren caretaker, K.H. Abdul Hamid Zuhri. The meeting, which took place in a warm atmosphere, was also attended by the extended family of the pesantren caretaker and accompanied by prayers for the progress of the Indonesian nation.

The Vice President also took the time to greet, dialogue, and take photos with the santri and the public who crowded the pesantren area. Residents were enthusiastic in welcoming the presence of the former Mayor of Solo in their area.

One resident, Ispari, said she was proud to meet the Vice President directly. According to her, Gibran’s performance has been very good since serving as Mayor of Solo until now bearing the mandate as Vice President.

Concluding the series of activities, Vice President Gibran along with K.H. Abdul Hamid Zuhri walked to Masjid Jami’ Baitul Muslimin to perform Friday congregational prayers with the community at the mosque, which is about 400 metres from the pesantren location.