The Indonesian President: Al-Azhar Refines our Students with Best Worldly Sciences
His Eminence Prabowo Subianto, the Indonesian President, said, during his meeting with the Grand Imam of al-Azhar, Prof. Ahmad at-Tayyeb that he is proud of his students studying at al-Azhar and he was pleased to meet with many of them today. He added that many Indonesians have graduated from al-Azhar, including presidents and prime ministers, which is a pride for all of us, such as Mr. Abdurrahman Wahid, the fourth President of Indonesia.
The Indonesian President added that he came to Egypt to develop the relationship between the two countries, emphasizing the importance of this relationship because Egypt holds a special place in Indonesian hearts, as it was the first Arab country to recognize Indonesia’s independence. He noted that they learned at al-Azhar and in Egypt the values of coexistence, love for others and respect for all races.
He continued that the contemporary time has witnessed great technological development, which includes many benefits but also has drawbacks that must be avoided. He called on Indonesian students to continue the path of struggle and noble values, telling them: “You must focus all your efforts on receiving knowledge, and thank Allah that you are studying at al-Azhar and drawing knowledge from its sources. This is something that requires thanking Allah at all times, as this institution continues to refine our students with the best worldly sciences, and al-Azhar has great merit for us.”
The Indonesian President concluded by mentioning that they have seen with their own eyes al-Azhar graduates protecting churches during Christian holidays, and this is a lesson they learned from them. They learned how to coexist in peace and preserve their country, and this is the ideal model of al-Azhar, as they illuminate Indonesia with al-Azhar’s moderate approach. He advised them to study well at al-Azhar to benefit their country.
