Ma'ruf Amin's Eid Sermon at City Hall: Differences Are Not for Conflict
The 13th Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia and the khatib for the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah prayer at DKI Jakarta City Hall, Ma’ruf Amin, emphasised the importance of maintaining ukhuwah or brotherhood amid Indonesia’s multicultural society. He reminded that existing differences must be woven into strengths, not sources of division.
In his sermon, Ma’ruf conveyed that Eid al-Fitr is not merely a celebration following the Ramadan fast, but a moment to return to one’s innate nature and strengthen relationships with others.
“Eid al-Fitr means returning to fitrah, namely a clean heart, an honest soul, and peaceful relations with fellow humans,” said Ma’ruf in his sermon at City Hall, Jakarta, on Friday (21/3/2026).
He also highlighted the importance of the tradition of mutual forgiveness that is deeply rooted in Indonesia, such as halalbihalal. According to him, this tradition is not only cultural but also a form of social ijtihad to strengthen the unity of the ummah.
Ma’ruf asserted that in the multicultural life of the nation, differences in ethnicity, culture, and background are inevitable. However, if managed well through silaturahmi, these differences can create harmony.
“Differences are not for confrontation, but to be united in the harmony of life like a symphony,” he said.
He likened community life to a musical orchestra. Although consisting of various different instruments, if played in harmony, it will produce beauty.
Furthermore, Ma’ruf also reminded that Ramadan not only shapes spiritual piety but also social piety. This is reflected in the increased concern through zakat, infak, and sedekah during the holy month.
According to him, these values must be continuously maintained after Ramadan to create social justice and the welfare of the ummah.
“Islam not only builds ritual piety but also social piety. Zakat and sedekah are instruments for economic equalisation,” he stated.
At the end of the sermon, Ma’ruf called on Muslims to maintain istiqomah in faith even though Ramadan has passed. He emphasised the importance of continuing on the straight path in daily life, both in aspects of worship and social affairs.
The Eid al-Fitr prayer at DKI Jakarta City Hall was attended by around 2,000 congregation members consisting of civil servants (ASN) and the general public. This event also served as an opportunity for silaturahmi and halalbihalal between the government and residents.