Ramadan Safari: NasDem Consolidates Support in Greater Madura

In the seventh day of the Ramadan safari, the National Democratic Party (NasDem) central executive board visited the tomb of Syaikhona Kholil in Bangkalan, Madura, East Java. The delegation subsequently performed Friday prayers at Syaikhona Kholil Mosque before proceeding to Sampang Regency for political consolidation activities in Electoral District (Dapil) 11 Greater Madura.

The visit to Syaikhona Kholil’s tomb carried significant symbolic meaning. The renowned religious scholar from Bangkalan is recognized as a central figure in the Islamic learning network of the Indonesian archipelago and made substantial contributions to the spread of Islam throughout the country. In recognition of his services, Syaikhona Kholil was granted the title of national hero.

According to Saan Mustopa, Deputy Chairman of NasDem’s central executive board, the legacy of Islamic scholars such as Syaikhona Kholil represents more than mere historical records; it constitutes the moral foundation that has shaped Madura society’s character to this day. “The spirit of steadfastness, consistency, and courage in religious outreach serves as inspiration for building both social and political life,” Saan stated in written remarks on Friday, 27 February 2026.

Following the Bangkalan agenda, the Ramadan safari continued to Sampang Regency for consolidation of Electoral District 11, which encompasses Sampang, Bangkalan, Pamekasan, and Sumenep regencies. The consolidation forum was attended by Sampang Regent Slamet Junaidi, religious scholars, community leaders, and party officials from the four Madura regencies.

Saan expressed special appreciation for Sampang Regency’s party branch, noting significant achievements. In the most recent period, the party’s regional legislative seats in Sampang Regency increased from 6 to 15 seats—a surge described as among the largest nationally.

Overall, Electoral District 11 (Greater Madura) now holds 28 legislative seats, comprised of 15 seats in Sampang Regency’s regional legislature, 4 seats in Pamekasan Regency, 4 seats in Bangkalan Regency, and 5 seats in Sumenep Regency. These achievements position Greater Madura as a relatively consolidated electoral district with effective organisational structure, creating a hierarchical configuration of party strength from regency to provincial level.

With a strong foundation established in Greater Madura, the next agenda focuses on maintaining consistency, strengthening cohesion, and ensuring sustained growth toward 2029. The Bangkalan and Sampang activities demonstrate that this Ramadan safari extended beyond symbolic or ceremonial activities. From the tomb of a great scholar to political consolidation forums, all activities aimed at reinforcing collective awareness that party strength derives from respected history and disciplined organisational work.