Indonesian VP Commends Multicultural Harmony
Lasem, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian Vice President Ma’ruf Amin has expressed optimism and admiration for the students, or santris, of Kauman Islamic Boarding School in Lasem, Rembang, Central Java, encouraging them to play a pivotal role in preserving and promoting multiculturalism.
During a press release from his office on Saturday, Vice President Amin conveyed his happiness that the spirit of multiculturalism in Lasem is being maintained, considering it a valuable asset for the local community and the nation as a whole.
“I am happy that multiculturalism in Lasem continues to be maintained; this is the wealth of Lasem, for Indonesia, and for all of us,” remarked Vice President Amin.
The Vice President attended the 52nd memorial event of K.H. Ma’shoem Ahmad, a distinguished Islamic scholar, and the 101st-anniversary celebration of Nahdlatul Ulama at Kauman Islamic Boarding School on the same day. Known as “Little China” due to the strong influence of Chinese culture, the boarding school was constructed by the descendants of K.H. Ma’shoem Ahmad. The unique characteristic of the area is the harmonious coexistence between the santris and the local Chinese community.
Vice President Amin acknowledged the long-standing interaction between Muslims and the ethnic Chinese community in Lasem, dating back to pre-independence Indonesia. He highlighted the historical acculturation that has taken place over centuries, making Lasem a symbol of tolerance since the 16th and 17th centuries.
“This area has been described as a tolerant area since the 16th and 17th centuries,” Vice President Amin added, emphasizing the rich history of multiculturalism in the region.
According to him, the persistent commitment to the multicultural concept in Lasem has not only fostered harmony but has also contributed to Indonesia’s global reputation as the most tolerant country in the world.
K.H. Moch. Zaim Ahmad Ma’shoem, a member of the management staff at Kauman Islamic Boarding School, highlighted the longstanding tradition of tolerance between the Muslim and Chinese communities in Lasem. He noted that this spirit of cooperation has roots dating back to 1740 when both communities fought together against Dutch colonists.
Vice President Amin’s visit to Kauman Islamic Boarding School underscored the significance of preserving and cherishing Indonesia’s multicultural heritage, fostering unity, tolerance, and mutual understanding among diverse communities.
