RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Ministry of Religious Affairs has called for fresh perspectives and professional expertise from external parties to strengthen credible Islamic economic governance.

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar conveyed this during his remarks at the 22nd Anniversary of the Indonesian Association of Islamic Economists (IAEI) and the Islamic Economic Stakeholder Gathering in Jakarta on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

As reported on the ministry’s official website, Minister Nasaruddin invited Islamic economic experts and practitioners to collaborate with the government in transforming community fund management in Indonesia.

“We need professional input and specialized assistance from experts outside the ministry, both theoretically and practically. This is crucial, therefore, ladies and gentlemen, let us provide strategic content related to this,” he said.

One of the key issues raised was the government’s plan to establish the Community Fund Management Institute (LPDU). The minister said he hoped to intensify the formulation of concrete concepts for the LPDU, particularly during Ramadan.

Minister Nasaruddin emphasized that every step to strengthen the economy must remain within the legal framework, in line with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution.

Reflecting on the economic principles practiced during the time of Prophet Muhammad, he underlined that stability is the foundation of economic growth. “The economy needs a sense of security. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) exemplified that trade can only thrive if there is stability, so a ceasefire comes first. I also remind you not to damage resources such as crops or small-scale industries, even in enemy territory. The essence of Islamic economics is sustainability, free from usury and the practice of hoarding,” he explained.

The minister also reminded Islamic economic thinkers not to lose their identity. He cautioned against adopting overly rational-liberal approaches without strong theological roots. “I ask that our ideas not be separated from verses, hadiths, and religious texts as legitimacy. We must have a deep Islamic insight to avoid being labeled liberal,” he said.

In closing, Minister Nasaruddin urged the audience to be more careful in communicating in the digital age. He stressed the importance of accuracy in speech to prevent information distortion or misunderstandings within society.

“Please be more mindful of your words and behavior in this day and age. What we mean shouldn’t be misinterpreted or misunderstood by society. Because the digital world moves so quickly, let’s be cautious about what we say to prevent information from becoming distorted, which could be harmful to the community,” he said. ***