Indonesia’s “Run for Palestine” Event Draws Thousands in a Display of Solidarity

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian Ministry of Youth and Sports lauded the participation of thousands of runners in the “Indonesia Run for Palestine” event, underscoring the nation’s steadfast support and solidarity with the Palestinian cause.

In a statement released on Sunday, Deputy for Youth Empowerment at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Asrorun Ni’am Sholeh, expressed appreciation for the large turnout, stating, “Sport is a universal language to express a desire or a purpose, and today we gathered and ran to express our moral, financial, and spiritual support for Palestinian independence.”

Ni’am emphasized that the participants in the event represented the sentiments of the majority of Indonesians who ardently support the cause of Palestinian independence. He noted that such expressions of solidarity carry profound significance in the face of the ongoing challenges and occupation faced by the Palestinian people.

Drawing a parallel to the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), Ni’am highlighted the symbolic importance of the participants’ actions. According to the narrative, ants formed a chain to extinguish the flames when Ibrahim was burned alive, even though their efforts were questioned by other animals. Ni’am emphasized that the key takeaway from the story is not the effectiveness of the action but rather the stance people take against oppression.

“We hope our presence today will be akin to the ants (that helped) Ibrahim, who would strengthen the push for Palestinian independence,” Ni’am remarked.

The “Indonesia Run for Palestine” event, organized on Sunday morning by the National Alms Agency (Baznas) with support from the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), and the Religious Affairs Ministry, commenced with an opening ceremony at the Youth and Sports Ministry complex.

Participants, running a 5.5-kilometer route within the Gelora Bung Karno Sports Complex in Central Jakarta, not only showcased their physical endurance but also demonstrated their commitment by providing donations for the people of Palestine. The charity run, organized to commemorate Baznas’ 23rd anniversary, exemplified the unity and compassion of the Indonesian people in supporting the aspirations of the Palestinian population.