Indonesia-Netherlands Cultural Dialogue Highlighted Through Photo Exhibition

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar underscored the role of art in fostering cultural and humanitarian dialogue as he opened the photo exhibition “Labbayk: Here I Am” at Erasmus Huis, the Dutch cultural center in Jakarta, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

The exhibition, organized by the Dutch Embassy to Indonesia in Jakara, showcases the spiritual journey of the Hajj.

“This exhibition is not merely an artistic space for photography, but a cultural and humanitarian bridge that reflects Islam’s peaceful, contemplative, and meaningful spiritual face,” Minister Nasaruddin said, as quoted on the ministry's official website.

The timing of the exhibition coincides with the Hajj season, a moment of profound spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. “Millions of people from diverse nations, ethnicities, languages, and backgrounds are preparing to answer the sacred call to perform the pilgrimage in Makkah al-Mukarramah,” he noted.

Nasaruddin emphasized that the Hajj is both a physical journey to Makkah and a spiritual journey toward God, a process of purification and total devotion. At the same time, it is a human journey that embodies equality and fraternity, as pilgrims from all walks of life stand together in identical attire before God.

He also highlighted the historical dimension of the pilgrimage, tracing its roots to the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), whose legacy of faith, sacrifice, and submission to God continues to shape Islamic tradition.

Beyond its spiritual and historical meaning, Minister Nasaruddin stressed the universal humanitarian message of the Hajj: the search for life’s meaning, submission to God, and human solidarity.

“In ihram, pilgrims wear simple white garments, stripping away all symbols of social status. There is no distinction between rich and poor, officials and ordinary citizens, black or white, large nations or small. All stand equal before God," he explained.

"This is one of the deepest messages of the Hajj--that human dignity is defined not by race, skin color, or nationality, but by piety and humanity,” he added.

The Minister praised the exhibition for presenting personal stories of Dutch Muslims undertaking Hajj and Umrah, offering audiences a more human and relatable perspective of Islamic spirituality. He noted that art and culture often succeed in bridging gaps that politics or formal diplomacy cannot.

“May this exhibition strengthen cultural dialogue, deepen mutual understanding, and foster respect among people in today’s increasingly diverse global society. At the same time, it is expected to further reinforce the friendship and cooperation between Indonesia and the Netherlands,” Minister Nasaruddin said.

The opening was attended by Dutch Ambassador to Indonesia Marc Gerritsen, embassy officials, and invited guests. ***