By: Zahra Hanifah
The series of meetings of the Parliamentary Union of the OIC Member States (PUIC) has officially commenced, marking a significant milestone in strengthening solidarity among members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). This forum brings together parliaments from Muslim countries to address shared challenges and formulate strategic steps to enhance the position of the Islamic world in the global order. Amidst a landscape shaped by humanitarian crises, geopolitical tension, and the demands of sustainable development, the PUIC serves as a timely platform to build consensus, deepen cooperation, and affirm the universal Islamic values of peace and practical solutions. Within this context, Indonesia once again stands out as a proponent of dialogue and a driver of constructive synergy.
Today’s complex global dynamics compel the Islamic world to engage in deep reflection. Social inequality, geopolitical conflicts, and development challenges demand a form of solidarity that goes beyond rhetoric. Amid this tide, the PUIC emerges as a crucial forum for fostering unity among Muslim nations. Indonesia plays a pivotal role—not merely as an active participant, but as a central axis of constructive, inclusive, and unifying influence.
Indonesia is no newcomer to Islamic diplomacy. Its long-standing experience in consensus-building, promoting dialogue, and advocating for justice has established the country as a strategic partner for OIC member states. Through its leadership role in the PUIC, Indonesia demonstrates forward-looking parliamentary diplomacy, supported by its moral authority and reputation as the world’s largest Muslim democracy.
This year’s PUIC sessions underscore a shifting paradigm. Issues such as humanitarian crises, Islamic education, women’s empowerment, and energy and food security have been widely acknowledged as collective challenges requiring cross-border responses. Indonesia plays a key role in elevating these concerns to the main stage, encouraging inter-parliamentary cooperation, and proposing solution-based approaches grounded in collaboration—not domination.
This success is inseparable from the progressive and adaptive leadership of Indonesia’s parliament. DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has emphasized that parliamentary diplomacy must serve as a soft power tool capable of bridging political and ideological divides among Muslim nations. This vision is reflected in Indonesia’s PUIC involvement, where its proposals are not only acknowledged but also embraced by many delegations.
Chairman of the DPR’s Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Committee (BKSAP), Mardani Ali Sera, stressed that Indonesia’s approach to constructive dialogue is not merely symbolic but part of a long-term diplomatic strategy. This role is strengthened by Indonesia’s domestic stability and its inclusive democratic commitment. Its cultural and religious diversity, maintained in social harmony, stands as concrete evidence that Islamic values can coexist with modernity and openness. Through the PUIC forum, Indonesia is transforming this lived reality into a force that inspires other member states and affirms its strategic position amidst diverse national interests.
Concrete initiatives are also central to Indonesia’s approach. Its support for the Palestinian cause, adaptable Islamic education, the strengthening of the sharia economy, and a commitment to advancing digital technologies for Muslim youth all form part of Indonesia’s roadmap for contribution. These initiatives demonstrate that diplomacy does not end with speeches but is carried out through meaningful, long-term actions.
The PUIC forum enables a transformation in Islamic diplomacy—from reactive to proactive. Indonesia uses this space to build egalitarian and mutually reinforcing inter-parliamentary networks. This approach actively contributes to regional stability and trust-building on sensitive issues, while promoting synergy amidst diverse political and social systems among member states.
Indonesia’s presence in this forum brings renewed hope for a more harmonious and competitive Islamic world. Values such as civility, social justice, and a spirit of global humanity form the foundation of Indonesia’s diplomatic stance. Within the PUIC, these values are not merely discussed—they are upheld as guiding principles in drafting resolutions and formulating policies.
Looking ahead, Indonesia’s role is projected to grow even more prominent. Active involvement is expected not only from the parliament but also from civil society, youth, and academic communities. This paves the way for a more inclusive and responsive multi-track diplomacy. By harmonizing institutional strength with public participation, Indonesia can continue to amplify its influence in shaping a peaceful, modern, and united future for the Islamic world.
The PUIC is more than an annual meeting—it is a collective momentum to redefine the Islamic world’s global narrative. Indonesia demonstrates that diplomacy does not have to be based solely on military or economic power. Diplomacy rooted in values, experience, and empathy can be an even stronger and more resilient force for consensus.
In an increasingly unpredictable geopolitical climate, Indonesia’s presence as an anchor of stability and a voice of unity becomes ever more relevant. The Islamic world needs leaders who can bridge divides, build trust, and ignite genuine cooperation. Indonesia is now fulfilling that role at the PUIC—not just as the representative of a single nation, but as a symbol of renewed spirit in shaping a more inclusive and just future for the Muslim ummah.
The author is an observer of parliamentary diplomacy in Islamic countries.