Minister of Culture Designates 13 July as Day of Belief in the One Almighty God

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has officially designated 13 July as Hari Kepercayaan Terhadap Tuhan Yang Maha Esa (Day of Belief in the One Almighty God). He stated that the designation fulfils a mandate from the constitution and legislation. Fadli explained that this constitutional mandate is enshrined in Article 32, paragraph 1 of the 1945 Constitution, which states, ‘The state shall advance the national culture of Indonesia amidst the civilisation of the world by guaranteeing the freedom of society to preserve and to develop cultural values.’ He noted that Law Number 5 of 2017 on the Advancement of Culture also serves as a basis for the decision. The designation was made at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) in East Jakarta alongside the Majelis Luhur Kepercayaan Indonesia (MLKI) on Monday, 6 July 2026. The event was also attended by several officials, including representatives from the Ministry of Religious Affairs. ‘The designation of the Day of Belief in the One Almighty God serves as a reminder to all of us that Indonesia was built on the foundation of diversity, tolerance, and respect for the dignity of every citizen,’ Fadli Zon said. He added that the state is present to ensure every citizen has equal space to practise their beliefs, preserve traditions, and pass on noble values to the next generation. He said this decree also represents the government’s commitment to serving the fulfilment of rights for believers. He explained that 13 July was chosen for its historical value, specifically the session of the Investigating Committee for Preparatory Work for Independence (BPUPKI). ‘The designation of 13 July is also a historical one, because it is linked to the major meeting on 13 July 1945 when discussions about our constitution took place,’ he said. Following the designation, Fadli Zon has not yet decided whether 13 July will become a national holiday. ‘Although if it were offered, many would want it, but the holiday might be optional if it is fought for later. However, we see this as an important step, especially as a form of recognition and a milestone proposed by the MLKI, which is a coalition of more than 100 organisations,’ he said. Director General of Cultural and Tradition Protection Restu Gunawan added that the designation of the Day of Belief in the One Almighty God was a long process. He mentioned that the MLKI had submitted the proposal since 2005. ‘So, I reported to the Minister that the discussion regarding the proposal for the Day of Belief in the One Almighty God has been proposed since 2005. So, thank God, under the Minister’s leadership, the penghayat community can now have a Day of Belief,’ Restu said. He noted that the discussion was attended by believers and various organisations under the MLKI, facilitated by the Directorate of Belief in the One Almighty God and Indigenous Peoples.