Muslim Council Of Elders Organises Communal Iftar To Foster Dialogue Among Religious Leaders In Indonesia

The Muslim Council of Elders recently hosted a communal Iftar in Indonesia, gathering religious leaders and dignitaries to foster dialogue and coexistence. This event, held for the third year by the Council's Southeast Asian branch, aimed to strengthen tolerance and mutual understanding among diverse communities.

Attendees included Dr. Muhammad Quraish Shihab, a former Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs and member of the Muslim Council of Elders, Dr. Lukman Hakim Saifuddin, another former Minister of Religious Affairs, and Kamaruddin Amin, Secretary-General of Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs. Ambassadors from various countries also participated in this significant gathering.

Dr. Muhammad Quraish Shihab highlighted the crucial role religious leaders play in guiding societies toward peace and tolerance. He stressed that the Muslim Council of Elders prioritises enhancing this role to encourage constructive interfaith dialogue. His speech underscored the importance of religious figures in fostering harmony within communities.

The event saw participation from prominent religious and community leaders across Indonesia. Representatives from Nahdlatul Ulama, Muhammadiyah, the Indonesian Ulema Council, the Communion of Churches in Indonesia (PGI), and the Bishops' Conference of Indonesia attended. Hindu, Buddhist, and Confucian leaders were also present alongside envoys from the Muslim Council of Elders.

Participants expressed gratitude towards the Muslim Council of Elders for its dedication to promoting tolerance and coexistence under the leadership of His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar. They acknowledged the Council's efforts in fostering an environment conducive to religious dialogue and understanding among different faiths.

This Iftar is part of ongoing initiatives by the Muslim Council of Elders to encourage civilisational dialogue among various cultures. The event reflects their commitment to building bridges between peoples through shared values and mutual respect during Ramadan.

With inputs from WAM