"We are Unity in Diversity"—Rector of UIN Jakarta and Six Interfaith Leaders Deliver a National Declaration

Rectorate Building, UIN Online News — UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta and leaders from religious organizations and universities reaffirmed their dedication towards unity in the Dialog Kebangsaan, Pancacinta, and Aksi Bersih-Bersih Rumah Ibadah on Saturday (August 16, 2025), as part of the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia.

Their commitment is articulated through the issuance of the National Declaration, also known as the Ciputat Declaration, which was directly presented by the Rector of UIN Jakarta, Prof. Asep Saepudin Jahar, M.A., Ph.D., marking the significance of enhancing national cohesion among all components of the nation.

Present at the reading of the declaration were the General Chairman of the Indonesian Confucian High Religious Council (Matakin), Xs. Ir. Budi Santoso Tanuwibowo M.M.; the Chairman of the Sriwijaya State Buddhist College in Tangerang Banten, Dr. Li. Edi Ramawijaya Putra M.Pd.; the Chairman of the Katwuri Baptist Theological College (STTBK), Dr. Gandi Wibowo M.Thh.; and the Lecturer of the Hindu Dharma Nusantara Jakarta Religious College, Made Wirawan S.Ag., M.Fil.H.

The Rector emphasized UIN Jakarta's dedication to partnering with institutions and religious leaders in Indonesia to uphold national values and promote interfaith harmony.

"UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta will persist as an inclusive institution of knowledge for all, serving as a paradigm in fostering diversity for the purpose of national unity," he assured.

The National Declaration, created by leaders and representatives from different Islamic universities, community leaders, and students, shows a shared promise to make Indonesia a large, peaceful, and welcoming country.

It emphasizes the importance of maintaining the cleanliness and preservation of places of worship as symbols of ecotheology, fostering religious harmony alongside environmental stewardship, and endorsing religious moderation as a cornerstone of national unity towards Indonesia Emas 2045.

The declaration asserts that safeguarding nature is a sacred obligation and an expression of love for humanity, while symbolizing joint dedication for environmental protection, which equates to the preservation of life and national sustainability as written below.

NATIONAL DECLARATION

“80 Years of Indonesian Independence: Momentum to Strengthen National Bonds in the Spirit of Diversity”

We, all participants in the National Dialogue, both from the Directorate General of Islamic Higher Education and the Directorate of Islamic Religious Higher Education at the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, the leaders of Islamic and Interfaith Higher Education Institutions, religious organizations, and all Indonesian people present at this National Dialogue, with full gratitude for the blessing of the 80th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia, declare the following determination and national commitment:

First, Making Indonesia a Peaceful and Inclusive Home

Indonesia is a shared home for all citizens. In this home, all religions, cultures, and traditions have room to coexist peacefully. We are committed to fostering brotherhood among our nation and country with the spirit of the Unity in Diversity (Bhinneka Tunggal Ika).

Second, Integrating Ecotheological Values in Education and Religious Life

We support the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs' move to introduce ecotheological teachings into the religious education curriculum. Protecting the environment is a form of worship to God and a moral responsibility for future generations. Houses of worship must be examples of cleanliness, sustainability, and ecological balance.

Third, Harmonizing Interfaith Harmony with Concern for Nature

Harmony between religious communities and concern for nature are the foundations of a civilized nation. Together, we affirm our commitment to harmony in action: maintaining harmonious relationships with God, each other, and the universe.

Fourth, Strengthening Religious Moderation as a Pillar of National Unity

We believe that religious moderation is the key to creating a peaceful life in a pluralistic society. Religious moderation is the best way to reconcile differences, reject violence, and strengthen brotherhood to realize Indonesia Emas 2045.

Fifth, Preserving Nature as a Trust and Reflection of Love for One Another

The universe is a trust from God that must be safeguarded. Preserving the environment means safeguarding life, strengthening compassion among humans, and ensuring the nation's sustainability. Ecological concern is an inseparable part of spirituality and nationalism.

We thus convey this commitment and determination with gratitude for the 80th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia, ensuring that national unity within the framework of diversity is always maintained.

May God The Almighty always bless our efforts in building Indonesia as a great home of peace, harmony, sustainability, and compassion for all humanity.

Long Live Indonesia!

(Press Release of the Information and Public Relations Center and LP2M UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta)