President Jokowi Discusses ‘New Normal’ Procedure with Interfaith figures

President Jokowi and Vice President Ma’ruf Amin are in a meeting with interfaith figures at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Tuesday (2/6). (Photo by: BPMI)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo and Vice President Ma’ruf Amin held a meeting with eight interfaith figures at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Tuesday (2/6).

In the meeting, the President told them the Government’s efforts in the handling of COVID-19.

“COVID-19 has spread in 215 countries, including developing countries, developed countries, rich countries, poor countries; all countries have been affected by the virus,” the President said.

He went on to say that the pandemic is not only a matter of health issue, it also affects other sectors such as economic and social sectors.

Also on that occasion, the President asked for inputs from interfaith figures regarding preparation to impose new normal in places of worship.

They also discussed the cancellation of hajj pilgrimage 2020 which the policy is supported by various Islamic organizations in Indonesia.

“In Islam, safety is one of conditions of performing hajj. For the general good, the Indonesian Government must consider to cancel hajj pilgrimage for 1441 hijri.” Secretary-general of Muhammadiyah Abdul Mu’ti stated in a release.

Also attending the meeting were, among others, Minister of State Secretary Pratikno, Secretary-general of Nahdlatul Ulama Helmi Faishal Zaini, Secretary-general of Muhammadiyah Abdul Mu’ti, Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) Muhyiddin Junaidi, Chairman of the Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI) Gomar Gultom, Chairman of Bishop Council of Indonesia (KWI) Ignatius Suharyo, Chairman of the Indonesian Hindu Religious Council (PHDI) Wisnu Bawa Tenaya, Chairman of the Indonesian Buddhist Association (Permabudhi) Arief Harsono, and Chairman of the Confucian Supreme Council of Indonesia (Matakin) Budi Santoso Tanuwibowo. (BPMI/EN)

Translated by : Rany Anjany
Reviewed by: Mia Medyana