Mardiono Seeks UAS's Guidance on State Duties and PPP's Future
Presidential Special Envoy for Food Security and Chairman of the United Development Party (PPP), Muhamad Mardiono, held a gathering with Ustadz Abdul Somad (UAS) in Pekanbaru, Riau. During the meeting, Mardiono sought input regarding his state duties and direction for the PPP’s future struggle.
Mardiono stated that his visit to Riau, besides strengthening ties, was also to carry the mandate as the Presidential Special Envoy, which requires perspectives from ulama and national figures. “The first, of course, is to maintain good relations and carry a state mission because I am the President’s Special Envoy. I seek enlightenment regarding the policies and governmental tasks I am currently undertaking,” Mardiono said on Wednesday (17/6/2026).
During the meeting, Mardiono admitted to receiving considerable input and views from UAS. According to him, the advice of ulama is crucial amidst the various global challenges and dynamics currently faced by Indonesia. In addition to carrying out state duties, Mardiono also sought guidance as Chairman of the PPP. Mardiono affirmed that the PPP will continue to maintain its identity as a party born from ulama and is committed to serving the community, nation, and state.
“The PPP will not detach itself from service to the community, nation, and state. The PPP is the party of the ulama with a noble mission to continue fighting for the interests of the people and safeguarding national unity,” he said. Mardiono added that UAS is a figure with broad insight, both nationally and internationally, and therefore the advice given is expected to serve as a provision in carrying out governmental and party leadership mandates.
Meanwhile, UAS expressed appreciation for Mardiono’s visit, which he considered a form of respect for the tradition of gathering and national dialogue. UAS noted that Mardiono was willing to take time out of his busy schedule for a direct discussion. “Alhamdulillah, Mr Muhamad Mardiono was willing to take the time to come to our humble place. Just sitting, drinking tea, and chatting. Hopefully, it will be beneficial for the community and the nation,” UAS said.
During the meeting, UAS also stressed the importance of political participation for Muslims through constitutional democratic channels. According to him, the people’s aspirations must be fought for through representative institutions to produce policies that favour the public interest. “Muslims must be politically literate. The people’s aspirations must be conveyed through representatives in parliament so they can become legal umbrellas, whether in the form of regional regulations or laws,” he stated. Concluding the meeting, UAS prayed for Mardiono and the extended PPP family to always be granted health, steadfastness in their struggle, and the ability to continue contributing to the nation’s progress.