Jakarta – The spirit of unity and interfaith harmony has grown stronger in the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) during a working visit by the Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Nasaruddin Umar, to the Masjid Negara IKN.
The momentum of Ramadan 1447 Hijri is not merely interpreted as an annual religious ritual, but as a space to consolidate national values amid social dynamics that are often marked by polarization. The Minister’s presence underscored that the development of Nusantara goes hand in hand with strengthening tolerance, improving public services, and building an inclusive and harmonious social ecosystem.
In his remarks, Nasaruddin emphasized that mosques have a strategic function that goes beyond the dimension of ritual worship. They must serve as symbols of national unity, including rejecting the threat of radicalism that often infiltrates religious spaces.
“This mosque must become a place to empower the community. It will serve as a beacon of tolerance, a symbol of unity, and a grand home for humanity,” he stated.
The message aligns with the government’s policy direction, which places religious moderation as a national strategy in preserving diversity. Ramadan is considered the most effective momentum to expand the narrative of Islam as rahmatan lil ‘alamin—a blessing for all creation—promoting a calming and inclusive approach to faith.
Echoing this sentiment, Member of the House of Representatives (DPR RI) Firman Soebagyo stressed that Ramadan 2026 should be used as a momentum to strengthen national unity. He reminded the public not to turn differences into counterproductive polemics.
“The most important thing is that Muslims must respect these differences, as they stem from different beliefs and methodologies. Do not obscure the essence of Ramadan with unproductive disputes,” he said.
Furthermore, he encouraged Muslims to use Ramadan as an opportunity not only to deepen worship but also to broaden tolerance and strengthen interfaith brotherhood.
A similar spirit was reflected in the Ramadan Safari held by the Governor of Bengkulu, Helmi Hasan, at Masjid At-Taqwa Rimbo Kedui in Seluma Regency. Before the congregation, Helmi invited the community to make Ramadan a platform for strengthening ties and maintaining unity.
“Through this Ramadan Safari, let us nurture our bonds of friendship. We must not be divided, but instead unite to realize a progressive Bumi Merah Putih,” he said.
These appeals reinforce the view that dialogue-based approaches and the strengthening of religious moderation are more effective in creating a peaceful atmosphere during Ramadan.
Thus, Ramadan 1447 Hijri is expected to become a milestone for reinforcing harmony and ensuring that Indonesia remains steadfast as a shared home that is peaceful and civilized.
