Gibran hopes Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr celebrations strengthen national unity

Jakarta — Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has expressed hope that the celebration of Nyepi (Balinese New Year) 1948 Saka and Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah will become an important momentum to strengthen brotherhood and consolidate the unity of Indonesian society as fellow citizens and countrymen.

“I hope that the celebration of Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr this year becomes an important moment for all of us to strengthen our brotherhood and reinforce our unity as fellow citizens and countrymen,” Gibran stated in a statement posted on the Vice President’s YouTube channel (@setwapres) on Sunday.

According to Gibran, this religious celebration is expected to strengthen communal solidarity in maintaining unity amidst the diversity possessed by the Indonesian nation.

He also extended greetings to Hindu communities across Indonesia for Nyepi, expressing hope that the Nyepi period of silence can bring peace, wisdom, and new spirit to society in building Indonesia.

Additionally, the Vice President extended greetings to Muslim communities across Indonesia for Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah, expressing hope that God’s mercy and protection will continue to be bestowed upon the Indonesian nation.

Gibran noted that this year is particularly special for Indonesia as the Chinese New Year celebrations took place simultaneously with the month of Ramadan fasting. Meanwhile, Nyepi is being observed in close proximity to Eid al-Fitr celebrations.

“This momentum affirms that Indonesia’s diversity is not something to be contested, but rather constitutes the nation’s strength, capable of coexisting in beautiful harmony,” he said.

The Vice President also viewed diversity in beliefs, ethnicity, and traditions as the nation’s identity that remains united in the bonds of strong brotherhood and constitutes a blessing from Almighty God that must be appreciated and maintained by all citizens.

“This is God Almighty’s blessing for Indonesia and as citizens we are obliged to appreciate and preserve our pluralism,” he said.