Jakarta (The Indonesian News) – Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has called on santri, students of traditional Islamic boarding schools, to continue serving Indonesia through meaningful contributions to the nation.
Nasaruddin delivered the message Thursday, October 22, during the 2026 National Santri Day commemoration ceremony.
He recalled the role played by santri in Indonesia’s struggle to defend its independence. Their contribution was reflected in the Jihad Resolution proclaimed by Hadratussyekh Kiai Haji Hasyim Asy’ari on October 22, 1945, which helped galvanize popular resistance leading up to the November 10, 1945, Battle of Surabaya.
The episode, Nasaruddin said, demonstrated that santri have consistently contributed to the nation’s development. He urged today’s students to carry on that legacy through contributions suited to the challenges and opportunities of a changing world.
“If in the past santri strengthened the nation by fighting to defend its independence, today they must strengthen it through science, technology, innovation, and, of course, noble character,” Nasaruddin said.
“The challenges of the times may change, but for a santri, the spirit of service to our beloved country must never fade,” he added.
Nasaruddin noted that Indonesia would mark the centenary of its independence in 2045. By then, the government hopes to realize its vision of Golden Indonesia 2045, transforming the country into a developed, prosperous, competitive nation capable of standing as an equal among the world’s nations.
Achieving that ambition will require human resources equipped not only with scientific knowledge and innovative skills but also with strong moral character. In this regard, Nasaruddin said, santri have a strategic role to play in shaping Indonesia’s future civilization.
Looking ahead, he said, santri have significant opportunities to make their mark across a wide range of fields—as religious scholars, scientists, educators, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
He therefore encouraged them to broaden their horizons. Alongside religious studies, he said, santri must also develop their knowledge of science and technology to adapt to changing times.
“This is where santri must take on an important role. They must not underestimate themselves or limit their own potential. A santri can become anything,” he said.
Nasaruddin also urged santri to preserve the traditions of pesantren, or Islamic boarding schools, particularly their emphasis on independence and noble character, while remaining responsive to contemporary developments.
“I call on all santri, wherever you may be, to become pioneers in science and technology, champions of unity, guardians of harmony, drivers of economic self-reliance, and friends of the environment,” he said.
Source: Press Release of the Government Communications Agency of the Republic of Indonesia (Bakom RI)
