"The implementation of programs in 2024 should not merely involve certain working units. The Ministry of Religious Affairs should strengthen the involvement of various stakeholders," he said in Semarang, Central Java, according to a statement received from the ministry in Jakarta on Monday.
He made the statement while delivering the opening speech at the Religious Affairs Ministry’s National Working Meeting 2024, which carried the theme of "The Transformation of the Religious Affairs Ministry for Golden Indonesia 2045."
Qoumas emphasized the importance of involving communities in the government's programs to achieve effective, beneficial, and accurate results.
The minister said he believes that development in the field of religion requires not only efforts from the government, but also the people, especially in terms of augmenting the quality of religious education services.
In that context, Qoumas urged his ranks to invite the management of private religious universities to take part in formulating measures and strategic programs that are expected to help Indonesia advance its education sector.
"Collaboration with both public and private religious universities is crucial so that we can jointly devise workable measures for bolstering the quality of education services," he added.
He also suggested that the Religious Affairs Ministry solidify its relations with religious institutions to strengthen concord among religious communities in Indonesia.
The minister then drew attention to Indonesia's religious harmony index score, saying that the country has been recording increases in the score over the past three years. He explained that the index assesses tolerance, equality, and cooperation fostered among religious communities.
"I believe that we will be able to achieve faster improvements in the quality of religious harmony by involving more parties," he added.
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Translator: Asep F, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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