Minister of Religious Affairs asserts harmony is the fundamental capital for national development
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has emphasised that interfaith harmony in Indonesia serves as the fundamental capital for national development, as well as a primary strength for Indonesia in facing global dynamics.
“Today we gather in one assembly to offer the best prayers for the nation. We may hold different beliefs, but we are united by the same love for Indonesia,” said Nasaruddin Umar during his keynote address at the National Dhikr and Prayer event at the National Monument (Monas) area, Jakarta, on Saturday.
The National Dhikr and Prayer event was attended by several ministers from the Red and White Cabinet, religious scholars, interfaith leaders, and various other elements of society. President Prabowo Subianto, who was previously scheduled to attend, was unable to be present due to other state duties.
The Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque noted that the night of National Dhikr and Prayer serves as evidence that harmony is a living social reality within Indonesia’s diverse society.
“Indonesia is God’s most beautiful painting on earth, and we must not disturb it. We may have different faiths, but we are united by the same love for Indonesia,” he stated.
He further noted that achievements in this area have exceeded the 2025 National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) target of 76.47 and are approaching the end-2029 target of 78.25. Additionally, the Religious Piety Index has increased to 84.20 in 2025.
Specifically, Nasaruddin expressed his appreciation to interfaith leaders who have consistently nurtured their communities and maintained harmony in national life.
Furthermore, he stated that Indonesia should be grateful because national development under the leadership of President Prabowo is proceeding on the right track amidst challenging global dynamics.
According to him, Indonesia possesses strong capital to become a global epicentre of civilisation in the future, supported by economic, social, and political stability that is relatively conducive compared to several other regions still plagued by conflict.
“Indonesia has strong capital to become the epicentre of civilisation in the future. This is supported by national economic, social, and political stability, which is also more conducive than several regions still engulfed in conflict,” said the Minister.