"We hope the momentum of NU's second century will mark a new awakening of NU, strengthen Islamic faith and Indonesia, improve the community's prosperity, and realize an advanced and dignified future for Indonesia," Jokowi stated.
He made the statement during the NU centenary commemoration ceremony at the Gelora Delta Stadium, Sidoarjo, East Java, on Tuesday.
The president said that representing the Indonesian people, he would like to express gratitude for NU's tireless contribution to the nation and was upbeat that the organization would become better with passage of time.
"Entering its second century, God Willing, NU will be firmer, be an example of moderate Islam and how to live with good Islamic etiquette, uphold good behavior and Eastern values, ethics, and tolerance, as well as unity, mutual assistance, and continue following the current development," Jokowi stated.
As the largest Muslim organization in the world, Jokowi believes that NU should increase its contribution to reach the international level to benefit the global community.
"The government appreciates NU's efforts to contribute to developing a better and esteemed global civilization," the president stated.
NU's contribution to maintaining people's resilience in challenging times, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic and the intrusion from radical and extremist groups, has also been proven, he stressed.
"Amid the wave of changes, NU must be in the front line to assess the current development, new technology and economic transformation, as well as to maintain equitable and dignified social order," Jokowi emphasized.
The president also expressed optimism that educational institutions operated by NU would prepare young nahdliyins (NU followers) to be literate in science and technology, master digital technology, and grow as advanced professionals.
"I also hope that NU would embrace and be attentive to members of the younger generation to ensure that they will remain committed to ahl as-sunnah wal-jamaah ("the people of Sunnah and the community") traditions and ethics, and will continue mastering science and technology," he stated.
Related news: RI President, First Lady join fun walk of NU's 100th anniversary
Related news: President invites Muslims to conserve national cultural wealth
Translator: Desca Lidya N, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
