MUI: 30 Percent of Converts in Karawang are Foreign Nationals from Various Countries

They come from China, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand. Additionally, there are those from European countries such as Germany and Finland.

Karawang (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) of Karawang Regency, West Java, states that the phenomenon of conversions to Islam is currently quite high, marked by numerous individuals seeking guidance to recite the two sentences of the shahada.

“If every month, there are almost always converts. In fact, often within a week, there are two to three converts who come to the MUI Karawang office to request guidance for reciting the two sentences of the shahada,” said the First Secretary of MUI Karawang, Yayan Sofian, in Karawang on Saturday.

He mentioned that the converts coming to the MUI Karawang office to recite the two sentences of the shahada come from various backgrounds, from workers, officials, entrepreneurs, to those with academic backgrounds.

According to him, those who have decided to become converts over the past year also include many from abroad or registered as foreign nationals.

He expressed gratitude for the high phenomenon of embracing Islam in Karawang. This indicates that more and more people are receiving guidance or direction from Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala.

Over the past year, he said, MUI Karawang has issued dozens of Islam entry certificates or convert certificates. Whereas previously, the maximum was only around 20 certificates.

This certificate can serve as the basis for population administration needs.

It was stated that the requirement to become a convert is conviction. As for administrative requirements, they include a photocopy of ID/KK, stamp duty, passport photo, and a statement letter.

“For those under age, parental permission is required, and if possible, witnesses should be present,” he said.

Additionally, there are additional requirements or provisions for male converts, namely they are obliged to undergo circumcision.

“If not yet circumcised and has recited the two sentences of the shahada, we cannot issue the convert certificate,” he said.