Istiqlal Eid Prayer Leader: Merah Putih Cooperative-MBG Programme Deserves Appreciation
Rector of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Prof Noorhadi Hasan, served as the preacher during the Eid al-Fitr 1447 H prayer at Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta. Hasan stated that the government’s programmes to realise the nation’s welfare deserve appreciation.
The programmes mentioned by Hasan include enhancing harmony, eradicating corruption, improving the quality and facilities of education, strengthening the people’s economy through the Merah Putih Cooperative, and providing free nutritious meals (MBG). Hasan said these programmes will not succeed without support from an integrous and trustworthy society.
“Priority programmes implemented by the government, such as enhancing harmony, eradicating corruption, improving the quality and facilities of education, strengthening the people’s economy through the Merah Putih Cooperative, and fulfilling societal nutrition through free nutritious meals, are important steps that need to be appreciated to realise a more just, healthy, and prosperous nation,” said Hasan during his sermon at Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta, on Saturday (21/3/2026).
Hasan stated that good programmes require people who work diligently and uphold moral values in daily life. He said human trusteeship is not only about maintaining relationships with fellow humans but also preserving environmental balance.
“Eid al-Fitr also teaches us that true victory is one that brings sustainable peace for all humanity,” he said.
Additionally, Hasan stated that the government’s diplomatic programmes in advocating for Palestinian independence also deserve appreciation. He said these efforts are reflected in Indonesia’s active participation in international peace forums.
“Therefore, we should also appreciate the various humanitarian diplomatic steps continuously pursued by the government in supporting the realisation of world peace, including consistent commitment in advocating for justice and independence for the Palestinian people. These efforts are reflected in various diplomatic initiatives and Indonesia’s active participation in international peace forums,” he added.
Hasan said the essence of fasting encourages inner detoxification and that religion should not merely be a ritual. He stated that the loss of honesty and trusteeship is the cause of moral decay.
“Indeed, a nation does not collapse due to poverty, but often becomes paralysed due to the loss of honesty and trusteeship. The loss of honesty and trusteeship causes moral corruption. Therefore, the Prophet was sent to perfect morals, as he said,” he stated.
Hasan also said Indonesia is a diverse country with various ethnicities, races, and religions. He stated that diversity is not a source of division, but rather the loss of honesty and trusteeship will destroy the nation.
“Therefore, a harmonious and harmonious national life needs to be continuously nurtured with values of faith, honesty, trusteeship, and social care,” he said, quoting Surah Al-Hujurat verse 13.
It is known that Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka performed the Eid al-Fitr 1447 H prayer at Istiqlal Mosque. Gibran was accompanied by his son, Jan Ethes Sinarendra.
In addition, attendees included MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani, Minister of ATR/BPN Nusron Wahid, Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar, Minister of Culture Fadli Zo, Chairman of Commission VIII of the DPR Marwan Dasopang, Chairman of the DPD Sultan Bachtiar Najamudin, Coordinating Minister for Legal Affairs Imipas Yusril Ihza Mahendra, Bawaslu Chairman Rahmat Bagja, Minister of National Development Planning/Head of Bappenas Rachmat Pambudi, and Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni.