Ibas Reaffirms Role of Islamic Boarding Schools as Moral Pillar and Guardian of National Character
Vice Chair of the People’s Consultative Assembly of the Republic of Indonesia, Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas), has reaffirmed that Islamic boarding schools serve as moral pillars and simultaneously guardians of national character amid increasingly rapid societal changes.
“Islamic boarding schools are not merely centres of religious education, but also moral bastions, character builders, and social forces of the nation,” Ibas stated in a written statement on Monday, 2 March 2026.
He made this statement during a fraternal visit as part of his recess activities entitled ‘Ramadan Religi, Strengthening the Nation’ at Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor in Ponorogo on Saturday, 28 February.
This visit during the holy month of Ramadan served as an opportunity to strengthen brotherhood whilst reinforcing synergy between the state and religious educational institutions. Ibas, who also serves as Chair of the Democratic Party Faction in the House of Representatives, stated that his presence was part of efforts to deepen fraternity and join in prayers with religious scholars and students.
“Gontor exemplifies how faith, Islam, and nationalism unite in the nation’s struggle towards peace and prosperity. We humbly seek prayers and blessings so that we may continue striving for Indonesia,” he said.
As Chair of the People’s Consultative Assembly and Member of the House of Representatives from East Java Electoral District VII representing the Democratic Party Faction, Ibas regards Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor as one of the most influential Islamic educational institutions, both nationally and internationally.
According to him, pesantren such as Gontor have produced many leadership cadres, thinkers, and community figures who have contributed across various fields, ranging from education, social welfare, to religious affairs.
In a national dialogue with the pesantren’s leadership, Ibas emphasised the importance of maintaining balance between Islamic values and nationalist spirit.
“In the era of digitalisation and globalisation, character education becomes key. Pesantren can present a balance between intellectual tradition, discipline, and global outlook without losing national identity,” he explained.
He also expressed pride in Gontor’s educational system, which emphasises the formation of moral character, etiquette, and spirit of service.
“I am proud. Students here not only gain knowledge, but also discover faith, life purpose, and spirit of service to society and nation,” he said.
As a people’s representative, Ibas reaffirmed his commitment to continue accommodating and championing the aspirations of the pesantren world, so that the educational process can run optimally and sustainably.
“I will continue to accommodate and champion pesantren aspirations so that education remains devout, strong in values, and capable of producing an excellent generation whose knowledge benefits religion, nation, and state,” he stressed.
The visit was warmly received by the leadership and extended family of Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor. Present were the pesantren leaders, KH Hasan Abdullah Sahal and KH M. Akrim Mariyat, as well as the leader of Darussalam Gontor University along with caretakers and students.
During the meeting, KH Hasan Abdullah Sahal emphasised the role of pesantren education in building national intelligence whilst instilling love for Indonesia.
He conveyed that all national elements, whether people, leaders, or educational institutions, bear responsibility in maintaining unity, strengthening the character of young generations, and being able to read national and global dynamics wisely. He also highlighted the importance of national self-reliance and harmony so that Indonesia remains strong and united.
On the same occasion, KH Hasan Abdullah Sahal offered prayers for Ibas, that he be granted sincerity, strength, patience, and steadfastness in service to the nation, long life, abundant sustenance, increasing good deeds, a life full of blessings, and offspring who continue the struggle for the welfare of the people and nation.
Through this Ramadan momentum, Ibas hopes the relationship between the state and pesantren will grow stronger, to build an Indonesian generation of noble character, knowledge, and spirit of service for national progress and people’s welfare.