Learning from COVID, Ulama and Academics Call on the Public to Be Optimistic and United in Facing Current Conditions

Jakarta — The Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), KH Marsyudi Syuhud, urged the entire Indonesian society to remain optimistic and united in facing the current conditions in Indonesia.

This was conveyed by KH Marsyudi Syuhud during a dialogue themed “Maintain Unity for a Bright Indonesia” on a national television station, Thursday (April 24, 2025).

According to KH Marsyudi Syuhud, society should be grateful for Indonesia’s current situation, which is peaceful, safe, and rich in resources.

He also expressed hope that the public would be able to manage the available resources well to navigate through the current conditions.

KH Marsyudi Syuhud urged the public not to dwell on the “Dark Indonesia” narrative, as it could lead to negative consequences. People should focus on positive thinking to see what needs to be done moving forward, as this will lead to positive outcomes, making Indonesia even stronger.

The NU cleric also reminded the public that constructive criticism is allowed, as long as it is not fueled by hatred.

To face the current situation, KH Marsyudi Syuhud suggested that we can learn from the COVID-19 pandemic. The communication between clerics, from central to rural areas, was done well, resulting in the expected outcomes.

At the same event, Political Communication Expert from UI, Aditya Perdana, shared a similar sentiment. According to him, Indonesia can learn from its experience during the COVID pandemic.

“All levels of Indonesian society, from the top to the bottom, united and as a result, Indonesia was able to overcome the COVID pandemic well compared to other countries in the world,” he said during the dialogue on a national television station in Jakarta.

In facing global challenges, the President can unite the public to work together towards achieving the goals for a better Indonesia, he stated.

Furthermore, the UI academic also encouraged the public to remain optimistic amidst the current dynamics.

“President Prabowo has opened himself up and has been appreciated by various circles. We need to align our steps,” he concluded.