Minister of Religious Affairs Urges Strengthening of Brotherhood and Ecotheology in MUI's Halal Bihalal

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar urged Islamic social organisations (ormas) to strengthen brotherhood and environmental concern through the concept of ecotheology during the momentum of the National Silaturahmi and Halal Bihalal Idul Fitri of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI). In his speech, the Minister of Religious Affairs (Menag) conveyed that the halal bihalal tradition is not merely a post-Idul Fitri custom, but a space for improving relations among fellow humans and cleansing the heart of various prejudices. “Halal bihalal is our way of straightening relationships again, halalising what was once stored in the heart, and nurturing sincerity and humility,” said Nasaruddin at the Sultan Hotel, Jakarta, on Wednesday. He emphasised the importance of expanding the meaning of brotherhood, not only in the context of Islamic brotherhood and national brotherhood, but also human relations with all of God’s creations, including the universe. According to him, this awareness forms an important foundation in building ecotheology, namely the harmony between humans as khalifah and nature as fellow creatures of Allah. “It is impossible for us to be successful khalifah without the support of a conducive universe,” he said. He stated that Islamic social organisations and scholars have a strategic role as coolers of society, providers of direction, and drivers of solutions in various situations, including during difficult times. “This contribution may not always be recorded in statistics, but its traces are evident in the nation’s social resilience,” he said. Religious organisations, he added, have a unique strength due to their closeness to society down to the grassroots level. That role encompasses da’wah, education, health, economic empowerment, to social advocacy, even to the global level. In the context of current global challenges, such as information disruption and geopolitical dynamics, Nasaruddin assessed that the role of MUI is increasingly important as a guide, guardian of balance, and reference for the ummah amid differences. The government views MUI and Islamic social organisations as irreplaceable strategic partners in nation-building. He hopes that Islamic social organisations remain consistent as ummah guardians, guides in the midst of differences, and moral forces in national and state life.