Istiqlal Eid Prayer Leader References Free Nutritious Meals Programme in Sermon

Rector of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Noorhaidi Hasan, served as the prayer leader for Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah at Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta, on Saturday, 21 March 2026. In front of the congregation, Noorhaidi highlighted government programmes that he believes deserve appreciation.

In his sermon, Noorhaidi spotlighted policies such as anti-corruption efforts, improvements to educational facilities, the Red-White Cooperative, and the free nutritious meals (MBG). “These are important steps that need to be appreciated to realise a nation that is more just, healthy, and prosperous,” he stated during his sermon.

Additionally, Noorhaidi appreciated the government’s diplomatic efforts to advocate for Palestinian independence. “These efforts are reflected in various diplomatic initiatives and Indonesia’s active participation in international peace forums,” he said.

Nevertheless, Noorhaidi emphasised that President Prabowo Subianto’s programmes will not succeed without seriousness in their execution. “Good programmes require people who work earnestly and uphold moral values,” he remarked.

Furthermore, according to Noorhaidi, the fasting observed by Muslims during Ramadan can serve as a means of reflection to improve communal living. He stated that fasting can make a person more aware of God’s presence. “To obey His commands and avoid His prohibitions,” he added.

That awareness, he said, can enhance a person’s integrity and accountability. “As the primary capital in building a harmonious, dignified, and prosperous personal, societal, national, and state life,” Noorhaidi stated.

Several officials attended the Eid al-Fitr prayer at Istiqlal Mosque. Among them were Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka; Religious Affairs Minister and Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque, Nasaruddin Umar; and Chairman of the People’s Consultative Assembly, Ahmad Muzani.

This year’s Eid al-Fitr prayer at Istiqlal was not attended by President Prabowo Subianto. The Head of State chose to visit a disaster-affected area during this Eid moment. He performed the Eid prayer at Darussalam Mosque, Aceh Tamiang, located in a temporary housing area for residents impacted by floods and landslides in Sumatra at the end of last year.