Indonesia to Launch Independence Month with National Interfaith Prayer at Jakarta’s National Monument

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia will officially begin its Independence Month celebrations with a national interfaith prayer gathering at the National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta on August 1, as the Ministry of Religious Affairs has invited citizens from all faiths to participate in the event promoting national unity and solidarity.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar called on the public to join the national remembrance and prayer event, which will feature renowned Islamic scholar Habib Syech bin Abdul Qodir Assegaf alongside prominent interfaith leaders.

The minister said the interfaith prayer would be led by representatives of Indonesia’s officially recognized religions—Islam, Catholicism, Protestantism, Hinduism, Buddhism and Confucianism—reflecting the country’s commitment to religious harmony and national cohesion.

The event will also include a large-scale Islamic dhikr (remembrance) gathering and prayer procession featuring Quran recitation, a collective completion of the Holy Quran, salawat in praise of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Islamic music, choir performances and a congregational Maghrib prayer.

Secretary General of the Ministry of Religious Affairs Kamaruddin Amir described prayer as a vital spiritual force that accompanies the nation’s development and progress.

“Through this interfaith prayer, we appeal to Almighty God to guide Indonesia in realizing its aspirations of becoming a sovereign, just and prosperous nation,” Amir said.

Participants have been advised to wear white clothing and bring simple prayer equipment. The ministry has also requested attendees not to bring children or infants and prohibited the carrying of dangerous items into the venue.

The event is scheduled to take place from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Jakarta time, with participants permitted to enter the National Monument grounds from 3:00 p.m. through designated entry points at the northern and southern gates.

To facilitate the large gathering, the ministry said hundreds of toilet cubicles and ablution facilities equipped with between 1,000 and 1,500 water faucets will be available for participants.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs expressed hope that the national prayer gathering would serve as a symbol of unity among all segments of Indonesian society as the nation commemorates its Independence Month.

Officials said the event is expected to further strengthen interfaith understanding, national solidarity and the shared commitment of Indonesia’s diverse communities toward building a sovereign, just and prosperous nation.