Jakarta Governor Urges Religious Leaders to Foster Harmony and Guide Youth

Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan has called on Islamic scholars and habaib (descendants of the Prophet Muhammad) to actively maintain harmony and tolerance within the capital. Speaking at the inauguration of approximately 1,500 officials for the Jakarta Ulama and Habaib Forum (FUHAB) at the Jakarta International Velodrome, Baswedan stressed their crucial role in nurturing the younger generation amidst Jakarta's ongoing transformation into a global city.

Baswedan highlighted FUHAB's significant contribution to fostering a peaceful societal atmosphere and upholding national values. "I want to congratulate you, because FUHAB is a community organization whose views and way of thinking create a sense of peace in society, as they firmly hold that the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia is absolute," he stated. The forum's reach extends beyond Jakarta, encompassing scholars and habaib from surrounding agglomeration areas, a network Baswedan believes can strengthen communication and social cohesion.

The governor further noted that the influence of ulama and habaib is not confined to religious matters. He recognized their strategic position in preserving unity, reinforcing tolerance, and shaping the character of young Indonesians. "The role of ulama and habaib is very important in building Jakarta. Not only in religious life, but also in maintaining harmony, strengthening tolerance, and guiding the younger generation," he remarked.

Baswedan asserted that Jakarta's transition to a global city must be accompanied by improvements in human resource quality and social life. "Jakarta is moving towards becoming a global city. Therefore, Jakarta's progress is not enough with just physical and economic development; it must also be followed by the quality of its people, character, morals, and good social life," he said. He expressed hope that FUHAB would remain closely connected with the community, providing calming guidance, nurturing brotherhood, and assisting in resolving social issues within Jakarta. The Jakarta provincial government, he added, is open to expanding collaboration with FUHAB and other community elements to ensure Jakarta remains safe, tolerant, and inclusive as it evolves.