President Prabowo Subianto Highlights Gontor’s Panca Jiwa as Foundation for National Character Building
President Prabowo Subianto has emphasized that the educational values instilled by Gontor Modern Islamic Boarding School align with the spirit of shaping Indonesian national character, which provides an important foundation for developing a generation with integrity, self-reliance, good health, and a concern for others.
The President made the statement while attending the 100th Anniversary Thanksgiving Reception of Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor (PMDG), held at the Modern Boarding School Meeting Hall (BPPM) at the Gontor Boys’ Main Campus in Ponorogo regency, East Java province, Saturday (09/19).
In his remarks, the President highlighted Gontor’s Panca Jiwa (Five Spirits): sincerity, simplicity, self-reliance, Islamic brotherhood, and freedom. He also noted that these values align with the spirit of the Indonesian nation’s struggle to build the country.
“Panca Jiwa: sincerity, simplicity, self-reliance, Islamic brotherhood, freedom. Yes, this – this is our struggle too,” he said.
“This motto is extraordinary. I believe this is a motto that should apply everywhere. It is striking how similar it is to the values found in our military academy. One must have high moral character – be honest and sincere, and not become corrupt. One must not pretend to have high moral character, sincerity, or honest, only to steal once entrusted with a position of authority. One must also be physically healthy; one cannot do good if constantly ill, work hard if the body is weak,” the Head of State added.
President Prabowo Subianto also explained that sincerity and simplicity are principles that should be practiced in everyday life, while self-reliance reflects the determination to build a nation capable of standing on its own feet. He further emphasized ukhuwah Islamiyah (Islamic brotherhood) as a foundation for fostering fraternity and mutual care in society.
Furthermore, the Head of State interpreted freedom as freedom of thought, accompanied by the courage to recognize and acknowledge one’s own shortcomings. He also noted that the willingness to engage in introspection is essential to maintaining and improving the quality of the nation’s life.
“I always strive for sincerity and simplicity. I want our nation to stand on its own two feet. We must also be mindful of ukhuwah Islamiyah. We care, and I believe this is something for us to reflect upon. Freedom, freedom of thought, must also be accompanied by the courage to think correctly. As I mentioned earlier, we need the courage to recognize our own shortcomings. It is like caring for the body bestowed upon us by the Almighty; we must look after it, and looking after it means nurturing it,” the President said.
On that occasion, the President also commended the educational values that have been shaped Gontor Modern Islamic Boarding School throughout its century-long journey, while expressing hope that the spirit and noble values would continue to help shape future generations with strong character, integrity, and a spirit of service.
“Thank you. Congratulations, Gontor. Continue to answer the call of history. Carry on with your struggle. Do your utmost for the nation and the ummah (community),” the President remarked. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (RIF/MEP)
