Indonesian Ulema Council Coordinates with Immigration Over Foreign Converts to Islam

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) in Karawang, West Java, is increasing coordination with the local immigration office following a notable rise in foreign nationals converting to Islam. The MUI office has become a focal point for these conversions, with many foreigners choosing to recite the declaration of faith there.

According to MUI Karawang Chairman KH Tajuddin Nur, the council has already met with the Class I Non-TPI Karawang Immigration Office to enhance synergy and detect potential immigration violations. He noted that a significant portion of those converting, around 30%, are foreign citizens. These individuals hail from various Asian countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand, as well as European nations such as Germany and Finland.

The primary motivation for many foreign nationals embracing Islam in Karawang appears to be the desire to marry Indonesian women. Recognizing this trend, MUI Karawang is actively engaging with immigration authorities to better understand and address any potential immigration-related issues that may arise from these conversions.