"Indonesia is in mourning. He was a world-class national intellectual, his works and ideas were enlightening, particularly on historical studies, his expertise," Qoumas stated on his written statement received here, Sunday.
He said that Azra was a humble person and as an intellectual, highly responsive and actively contributing on the dynamics of the times.
Before knowing Azra personally, the minister said he had known Azra from his academic and social works.
"He was a very productive writer, either in the form of books, scientific journals, and popular articles in mass media. It is correct to refer him as a scholar with high commitment to the academic community and always create new things with his hand," Qoumas noted.
Besides his literature and academic works, Azra also devoted his expertise to the society by participating in various public and professional organisations, including his current tenure as the chair of the Indonesian Press Council, he pointed out.
The minister also lauded Azra, who as an excellent Muslim intellectual, always committed to promote religious moderation on his works.
"All Islamic state higher educational institutions are indebted (to Azra) with his contribution and ideas to develop the institutions till this day," Qoumas said.
He said that Azra was a humble Islamic scholar who must be emulated by Indonesian academics and intellectuals.
"We hope he will be blessed by the Almighty God, Amen," he remarked.
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Translator: Prisca Triferna V, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Sri Haryati
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