RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Istiqlal Mosque management inaugurated NL Corner at the mosque's library in Central Jakarta on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, together with Ducth Ambassador to the Holy See and Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion and Belief, Paul Bekkers.

The initiative aims to deepen international cooperation while broadening public literacy about the long-standing relationship between Indonesia and the Netherlands.

The launch was officiated by Istiqlal Grand Imam and Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar. The event formed part of Ambassador Bekkers visit to Istiqlal before continuing to Jakarta Cathedral in Central Jakarta.

Minister Nasaruddin expressed hope that NL Corner would serve as an educational platform for younger generations to understand the long history of Indonesia–Netherlands relations.

“It is beautiful if our young generation continues to see that we once had a long relationship with the Netherlands. That is why we showcase how the Dutch lived here for a long time,” he said, as quoted by Antara.

The Dutch Embassy has pledged to enrich the facility with resources, including a Dutch translation of the Qur’an already handed over to Istiqlal. Nasaruddin emphasized that the mosque remains open to international collaborations that foster stronger inter-country relations.

“No nation can achieve its goals without cooperation. The broader the collaboration, the greater the positive benefits,” he added.

Ambassador Bekkers highlighted that NL Corner reflects the closeness of Indonesia-Netherlands ties and provides a learning space for anyone interested in exploring Dutch culture and history.

“This place is for anyone who wants to learn more about the Netherlands while understanding the deep relationship between our two countries,” he said.

NL Corner features orange -- the Dutch national color -- and green, symbolizing environmental commitment. Decorations include bicycles, representing Dutch culture. In its initial phase, the Dutch Embassy donated around 200 books on Islam, history, and culture in Indonesian, Dutch, and English. The collection and design are expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

During the inauguration, Ambassador Bekkers also praised Indonesia as a model for practicing freedom of religion and belief. He noted that Istiqlal’s openness, including its symbolic connection to Jakarta Cathedral through the Tunnel of Friendship, reflects Indonesia’s inclusive approach to diversity.

“For us, Indonesia is a model in translating freedom of religion and belief into practice. This mosque welcomes everyone, and that reflects Indonesia’s attitude,” Ambassador Bekkers said.

He further emphasized that interfaith dialogue should not stop at communication among religious leaders but must deliver positive messages of peace to the world.

Ambassador Bekkers suggested Indonesia could play a leadership role in promoting such dialogue, including within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

His visit also included learning about Jakarta Cathedral’s tradition of offering its facilities to Muslim worshippers during major Islamic holidays, underscoring the spirit of cooperation between communities.

The Istiqlal Mosque Library already hosts several international reading corners, with contributions from the United States, China, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye.

The addition of NL Corner further enriches this global collection, reinforcing Istiqlal’s role as a center for intercultural dialogue and education.

Ambassador Bekkers concluded that freedom of religion and belief will remain a fundamental element in the Indonesia–Netherlands cooperation roadmap for 2026–2029, reinforcing the shared commitment of both nations to dialogue and inclusivity. ***