The activity, held at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, is a routine event organized every August 1 to commence the Month of Independence of the Republic of Indonesia. The country will celebrate its Independence Day anniversary on August 17.
On the occasion, Amin prayed to the Almighty to always bless and protect the Indonesian nation, according to a statement received from his secretariat here on Friday.
"O God, bless our country, Indonesia, with progress, peace, justice, and virtue. O God, protect us from disasters, plagues, diseases, discord, hardship, earthquakes, drought, and all other bad things," he remarked while praying before around three thousand attendees.
Meanwhile, President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) expressed gratitude in his speech for Indonesia's success in navigating global uncertainties. He said the country has continued to record growth despite challenges.
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Jokowi then reminded all elements of the nation to continue to preserve unity and work hand in hand to ensure that Indonesia can always survive any new challenges in the future.
"I would like to invite all people here to pray together. Let us ask for God's grace so He helps us in our journey to become an advanced nation," the president remarked.
The National Collective Dhikr and Prayer featured a sermon by Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) Anwar Iskandar. Meanwhile, Muhyiddin Thohir, a manager of an Islamic boarding school in South Sulawesi, chaired the collective dhikr session.
First Lady Iriana, Second Lady Wury, Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, several other ministers, ulemas, interfaith figures, and representatives of religious organizations and schools participated in the national event.
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Translator: Benardy F, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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