Indonesian Islamic Congress to Feature Youth Input on Culture and More

Indonesia's top Islamic council, Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI), is actively seeking input from the nation's youth. Through events like "Teenagers Ask, Scholars Answer," the council aims to bridge the gap between young Muslims and religious leaders, ensuring their voices are heard at the 8th Congress of Indonesian Muslims (KUII) in July 2026.

Organized by the MUI's Institute for Islamic Arts, Culture, and Civilization (LSBPI), these forums encourage open dialogue. While initially focused on arts and culture, the sessions have expanded to cover a broader range of issues relevant to young people. Habiburrahman El Shirazy, head of LSBPI, emphasized the importance of this direct engagement, noting that the recommendations gathered will directly inform the congress's proceedings.

Erick Yusuf, Deputy Secretary General of LSBPI, highlighted the critical need for this dialogue in the digital age. He pointed to the rise of AI-generated religious figures and social media influencers who may lack genuine Islamic scholarship. Yusuf stressed that today's youth must be equipped to become the next generation of knowledgeable religious authorities, capable of providing accurate guidance.

KH Badarisyams, head of MUI Banten Province, praised the initiative, underscoring the vital role of young people in shaping the future of civilization. He advocated for giving them ample opportunities to discuss and share their perspectives with established scholars, echoing the sentiment that youth are not to be underestimated.