By Rayyan Al Fattah)*
Indonesia once again demonstrates its strategic role in global diplomacy, particularly within the Islamic world, by hosting the 19th Conference of the Parliamentary Union of the OIC Member States (PUIC), taking place from May 12 to 15, 2025, at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta. Indonesia’s readiness and willingness to organize this international forum reflect not only a gesture of honor, but also a clear commitment to strengthening the role of parliament as a foundation of democracy and a pillar of global stability—especially among Muslim-majority nations.
Carrying the theme “PUIC Silver Jubilee – Good Governance and Strong Institutions as Pillars of Resilience,” the conference represents a collective awareness among OIC member states of the urgent need for clean governance and the reinforcement of resilient institutions. In today’s global context—marked by climate change, economic crises, and eroding public trust in leadership—the importance of effective, inclusive institutions has become a critical focus. With its experience in democratic reform and institutional development, Indonesia holds strong legitimacy to lead this discourse.
Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP) of the DPR RI, Mardani Ali Sera, stated that all aspects of the conference preparation—substantive agenda, logistics, and security—have been thoroughly finalized. Facilities for international delegates meet high standards, including well-prepared plenary rooms and bilateral meeting booths. Coordination with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and Police (Polri) has also been carried out to ensure optimal security, given the presence of many high-level dignitaries.
Furthermore, Indonesia has extended invitations to influential leaders, including the Prime Ministers of Singapore and Malaysia, to share their experiences on clean, effective, and adaptive governance. Their participation is expected to serve as a collective source of inspiration for Muslim nations in building inclusive and resilient institutions.
PUIC serves a strategic function as a parliamentary platform that bridges political, economic, and humanitarian interests within the Islamic world. With 54 member countries and 25 observer organizations, PUIC is among the most representative multilateral entities. Indonesia previously hosted the 7th PUIC Conference in Palembang in 2012, and once again reaffirms its capacity to host high-level international gatherings.
Indonesia’s enduring commitment to the Palestinian cause also remains integral to its diplomatic mission. Speaker of the DPR RI, Puan Maharani, has extended an invitation to the Speaker of the Palestinian Parliament to attend the conference—underscoring Indonesia’s steadfast support for Palestinian rights at international forums. The PUIC 2025 conference is expected to amplify practical and united support for Palestinian independence, moving beyond political statements toward coordinated parliamentary action.
As of early May 2025, 29 member states and seven observer countries have confirmed attendance, with an estimated 400 delegates participating from across the globe. This turnout reflects the high level of international confidence in Indonesia’s ability to facilitate constructive inter-Islamic dialogue.
Deputy Speaker of the DPR RI, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, previously affirmed that the legislative body has deployed all necessary resources to ensure the conference’s success—both technically and substantively. Indonesia is committed to ensuring that PUIC 2025 runs smoothly and delivers long-term strategic outcomes for inter-parliamentary cooperation.
Throughout the four-day program, PUIC activities will include plenary sessions, standing committee meetings, a women parliamentarians’ forum, and thematic discussions on legislative innovation, political inclusivity, and digital governance. The forum will also serve as a platform for collaboration with international organizations and civil society to build cross-sectoral solidarity in addressing global challenges.
Through the hosting of PUIC 2025, the DPR RI seeks to reaffirm the importance of parliamentary diplomacy as a strategic tool for reinforcing global cooperation. In an increasingly complex and multipolar world, the role of parliament as a bridge for dialogue and policymaking is crucial.
Mardani Ali Sera expressed hope that the public would support this conference, as its success would positively shape Indonesia’s image on the international stage. More importantly, he emphasized that the forum serves as a moment for Indonesia to showcase an inclusive and progressive democracy capable of responding to contemporary challenges.
As the country with the world’s largest Muslim population and a continuously evolving democratic system, Indonesia is uniquely positioned to become a driving force for global transformation, particularly in the Global South. PUIC 2025 is not merely a diplomatic event, but a historic mandate to help shape a future for the Islamic world that is more just, resilient, and sustainable.
*) The author is a public policy observer