Minister Umar to Remain Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque
Indonesia’s New religious affairs Minister to Continue Leading Iconic Istiqlal mosque
Jakarta – Newly appointed Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar revealed that President Prabowo Subianto has assured him he can continue serving as Grand Imam of the Istiqlal Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Southeast Asia.
Umar shared that the President personally requested he hold both positions, stating, “Don’t worry; you can hold both positions.We will arrange things so you can concurrently serve as Minister of Religious Affairs and Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque.”
This conversation took place before Umar’s ministerial appointment, according to the Minister. He admitted that he initially hesitated to accept the ministerial role, believing others were more qualified.
“I said, ‘We will serve you (Prabowo) even outside the (government) structure. It would be fine if you found someone more competent then me. Serving as grand Imam of Istiqlal is enough for me,'” umar recalled.
However, President Subianto remained firm in his decision, entrusting Umar with the crucial task of leading religious affairs in Indonesia.
Umar emphasized his commitment to fulfilling the President’s directives, including reforming the Ministry of Religious Affairs and tackling corruption within its ranks.
Balancing Pulpit and Power: Indonesia’s New Religious Affairs Minister to Lead Iconic Istiqlal Mosque
Jakarta – Newly appointed Minister of Religious affairs Nasaruddin Umar will continue his duties as Grand imam of the Istiqlal Mosque, one of Southeast Asia’s largest, following assurances from President Prabowo Subianto.
Umar revealed that President Subianto personally requested him to hold both positions, stating, “Don’t worry; you can hold both positions. We will arrange things so you can concurrently serve as Minister of Religious Affairs and Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque.”
This conversation preceded Umar’s ministerial appointment. The Minister admitted to initial hesitation, believing others to be more qualified.
“I said, ‘We will serve you (Prabowo) even outside the (government) structure. It would be fine if you found someone more competent than me. Serving as grand imam of Istiqlal is enough for me,’” Umar recalled.
President Subianto, though, remained firm in his decision, entrusting Umar with the crucial role of leading indonesia’s religious affairs.
Umar emphasized his commitment to fulfilling the President’s directives, including ushering in reforms within the Ministry of Religious Affairs and tackling corruption within its ranks.