During a gathering held at the Islamic Cultural Center in Jakarta, the ABI Supreme Council underscored the urgent need to strengthen internal unity among Muslims. The event, which was attended both in person and online by key ABI bodies including advisory and expert councils, central executive board, women’s wing, and provincial branches, focused on unity as a top priority.
Head of the ABI Supreme Council, Professor Husain Shihab, described the gathering as a platform for reflection and cohesion, stressing that the organization must closely monitor global political developments that directly impact Muslim communities.
He pointed to Iran as a key source of strategic learning, particularly in building societal resilience. Professor Shihab also referred to recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump on social media, suggesting a shift in Indonesian public sentiment toward Iran. According to Shihab, such remarks indicate a growing emotional bond between segments of Indonesian society and the Islamic Republic of Iran.
He strongly emphasized the need for unity between Shia and Sunni Muslims, especially among scholars and activists, calling it a strategic move to strengthen the Muslim community’s standing under global pressure.
Shihab praised the Iranian people’s solidarity, noting that even in critical times, their support for the state has continued—sometimes even from opposition groups. He described this as a powerful example of social cohesion worthy of emulation.
“This is an opportunity to educate society to become braver, more responsible, and to strengthen their sense of honor and identity,” he told the gathering.
He further highlighted Iran’s technological advancements, including its nuclear energy program, as strategic tools enabling the country to withstand global pressures.
Shihab outlined three key priorities for the ABI leadership and community:
- Strengthening Sunni-Shia unity
- Enhancing internal social, political, and cultural cohesion
- Expanding community education and capacity-building for human development
The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment to unity and community empowerment as the organization’s core priorities moving forward.
