Remarks of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the Opening of the 20th Congress of the Indonesian Muslim Students Movement (PMII), Wednesday, 17 March 2021, from the State Palace, DKI Jakarta Province
Bismillahirrahmanirrahim,
Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh,
Honorable Ministers of the Indonesia Onward Cabinet;
Honorable Minister of State Secretariat and Minister of Religious Affairs,
Honorable Vice Governor of East Kalimantan province,
Honorable Chairperson of the PMII Assembly Advisory Board Muhaimin Iskandar,
Honorable Chairperson of the PB PMII and all the board members from Sabang to Merauke, from Miangas to Rote island, also the PMII members all over Indonesia,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As an ideological child of Nahdlatul Ulama, the PMII is always at the forefront in safeguarding the nation’s journey, safeguarding Republic of Indonesia, safeguarding state ideology Pancasila, safeguarding the 1945 State Constitution, and safeguarding the national motto “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” (Unity in Diversity).
The PMII also consistently calls for tolerance and peace in the multicultural, diverse community of Indonesia.
I’d like to extend my highest appreciation to PMII members for showing a strong national commitment, hubbul wathon minal iman (nation proud is half of faith), consistently speaking up for concern and justice for others, for doing critical thinking, and for giving solutions for the betterment of nation. Also, for influencing the younger generation with Islamic and Indonesian spirit to be more optimistic.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The world has changed rapidly and caused disruptions in all sectors of life. Change is always unfriendly to those who are not ready to change and not eager to learn. Many organizations will be disrupted by change if they are not ready to adapt to change.
Therefore, PMII members must spearhead change. Once again, PMII members must spearhead change. The PMII must continue to grow and develop to become an innovative, adaptive youth organization. PMII members must be open and adaptive to new things. PMII members have to master science and technology. It is fardhu ain (mandatory). Why? Because the PMII is a laboratory for the Islamic youth leadership that will determine progress or setback for Indonesia in the future.
Honorable Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Government continues to work hard to rebuild public health and national economy. Various policies have been carried out. Many priority programs have been launched aimed to help people’s economy in order to survive. Alhamdulillah (Thank God), our national economy is showing a positive trend, although it is not yet optimal – we have to admit it. But we must not give up, especially in times of pandemic crisis that hits the world today. Therefore, I ask for the support and participation of PMII members to be a part of this national jihad (struggle to defend Indonesia), to contribute opinions, ideas, and to help, solve the big problems of our nation, starting from closest environment.
I believe that the PMII Congress this time will bear fruit for strategic programs that can solve student, social, and national problems in order to realize the future progress of the PMII. I believe the PMII will remain strong and continue to respected, and constantly give important meaning for the progress and glory of Indonesia.
That concludes my speech on this auspicious occasion.
By saying bismillahirrahmanirrahim, I officially inaugurate the 20th Congress of the Indonesian Muslim Students Movement (PMII).
I thank you.
Wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. (AP/MEP)