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IKIM Religious Forum Strengthens Malaysia–Indonesia Relations
By Mohd Iswandi Kasan Anuar
JAKARTA, 19 June (Bernama) — A total of 15 interfaith organisations participated in a religious forum in Jakarta on Wednesday, aimed at fostering closer ties among scholars and promoting harmonious relations between Malaysia and Indonesia.
In a statement, the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM) announced that the Bicara Ad-Din Forum — an iconic programme produced by its radio station, IKIMfm — was organised in collaboration with the Embassy of Malaysia under the theme 'Membangun Negara Madani: Fiqh Nusantara dan Inspirasi Piagam Madinah.'
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The Charter of Medina (Piagam Madinah), also known as the Constitution of Medina, was drafted by Prophet Muhammad shortly after the Hijrah from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, and served as the foundation for establishing an inclusive and respectful civil society.
The Malaysian Ambassador to Indonesia, Datuk Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin, described the programme as a positive step towards strengthening ties between the two kindred nations, whose populations are predominantly Muslim.
'In the Malaysian context, this programme provides an opportunity to appreciate the unique characteristics and differences between Malaysia and Indonesia. Although often perceived as similar, both nations possess distinct identities that deserve to be understood and embraced,' he said.
The Director-General of IKIM, Associate Professor Datuk Dr Mohamad Azam Mohamed Adil, explained that the forum emphasised a moderate approach to life as a means of fostering peace and harmony, grounded in the concept of Fiqh Ta'ayush — the principle of coexistence within a pluralistic society.
'The forum also explored the importance of drawing inspiration from the Charter of Medina in shaping a harmonious society, despite differences in cultural and religious backgrounds,' he said.
The panel comprised Deputy General Chairperson of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), Zulfa Mustofa; Head of the Foreign Relations and International Cooperation Division of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim; and Mohamad Azam.
