Minister of Religious Affairs Visits As'adiyah Pesantren to Review Integrated Education Zone Development

Makassar (ANTARA) - Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs KH Nasaruddin Umar visited the As’adiyah Pesantren in Wajo, South Sulawesi, to inspect several facilities that are part of a plan to develop an integrated education zone. “The visit to As’adiyah Pesantren in Sengkang, Wajo, was a goodwill gathering as well as an inspection of several pesantren facilities that are part of the integrated education zone development plan,” he said in a statement received in Makassar on Friday. In his address to the students, Nasaruddin Umar stressed the importance of building a harmonious relationship with nature as part of the educational process. He said that the trees and environment around the pesantren are not merely complementary, but serve as a source of learning that teaches patience, usefulness, and gratitude. “Take care of the trees and plants around us. They are also teachers from whom we learn. Nature will provide peace and blessings to those who protect it,” he said. Nasaruddin Umar also reminded the students to begin every activity by reciting the Basmalah and to maintain a balance between intellectual and spiritual intelligence. “Study well. Focus your mind, focus your thoughts, and focus your inner self. Do not forget the Basmalah in every step of your life,” he said. Meanwhile, Head of the South Sulawesi Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs Ali Yafid, who accompanied the minister, said the visit was not only a goodwill gathering but also a momentum to strengthen the commitment to developing pesantren education as a centre for character building, knowledge, and civilisation. According to Ali Yafid, the existence of As’adiyah has made a significant contribution to human resource development and the strengthening of religious values in South Sulawesi. “As’adiyah is one of the pesantren with a long history of producing knowledgeable, moral, and moderate generations,” he said. He assessed that the attention given by the Minister of Religious Affairs to the development of As’adiyah demonstrates the government’s strong commitment to strengthening the pesantren education ecosystem in Indonesia. Ali Yafid also welcomed the various development plans presented during the leadership meeting of the As’adiyah Central Board, including the strengthening of educational and health facilities, economic empowerment, and the development of an environmentally based pesantren area.