President Jokowi Hosts Iftar Gathering with Indonesia Onward Cabinet

The iftar gathering of the Indonesia Onward Cabinet, Thursday (03/28), at the State Palace, Jakarta. (Photo by: PR of Cabinet Secretariat/Jay)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo and Vice President Ma’ruf Amin Thursday (03/28) hosted the first iftar gathering since the pandemic with Ministers of the Indonesia Onward Cabinet at the State Palace, Jakarta.

The communal iftar portrayed a warm ambiance with all ministers engaging in casual conversations.

According to Vice President, fasting serves as a vital practice in discipline, honesty, and self-control.

“The significance of fasting lies in its ability to curb desires, as desires perpetuate an enduring struggle. These desires often lead to undesirable outcomes, necessitating their restraint,” the Vice President said.

The Vice President also mentioned the special aspect of fasting as a form of worship that receives an immediate response from Allah SWT.

“Fasting holds multiple wisdoms, not just one. That’s why it’s considered a unique form of worship,” he said.

The Vice President expressed hope that the wisdom of fasting would positively impact the Indonesian people.

“Hopefully, as a nation, we can exercise self-control, particularly after the elections. May we all benefit from the wisdom gained through fasting,” he said.

As they awaited the Maghrib call to prayer, the President and his ranks engaged in dhikr and prayer. Once the prayer call was heard, they promptly broke their fast with the takjil (breaking-of-the-fast-snacks) provided, followed by Maghrib prayers in congregation.

On that occasion, several ministers shared their sentiments about the iftar gathering at the State Palace after a long time due to the pandemic.

Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani Indrawati expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gather once more after the pandemic, highlighting the significance of this moment for reflection, particularly in the aftermath of the election and as the term of the Indonesia Onward Cabinet draws to an end.

“This year marks the final year for the cabinet. Therefore, it holds special meaning for all of us,” the Minister said.

Echoing the same sentiment, Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin expressed his joy at being able to physically break the fast together again after the pandemic and hopes that in the remaining term of the cabinet, everyone can work optimally for the community.

“Hopefully, we can work until the end in the best way possible for the community,” said Minister of Health Budi, re-emphasizing the importance of building relationships.

In the meantime, Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno LP Marsudi urged the ministers to seize the opportunity of Ramadan to enhance our quality and foster solidarity, particularly in light of the concerning situation in Gaza, Palestine.

“Let’s use this Ramadan to pray for our brothers and sisters in Palestine, wishing them strength and a swift end to their suffering. It’s important to foster stronger solidarity among people, especially those who fast under difficult circumstances,” the Minister said. (TGH/UN) (RIF/LW)