Minister Highlights Religious Approach for Environmental Awareness

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta: Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, emphasized a religious approach to strengthen environmental awareness among society. He made the statement in Jakarta on Monday, April 13, 2026.

The ministry also underlined the strategic role of faith in addressing environmental challenges. Minister Nasaruddin conveyed this during a meeting with the Malay Sriwijaya Nature Foundation (MALAYA). T

The foundation works in culture, Malay heritage, Islamic values, education, and environmental issues. The discussion focused on plans for a national seminar on Islam, spirituality, and environment.

He also welcomed the initiative as consistent with the ministry’s policy direction. He emphasized that religion plays a crucial role in shaping collective environmental awareness. He added that faith-based approaches can effectively reach wider communities.

Before delivering his statement, the minister highlighted the cultural context of Palembang. He noted that Malay identity remains dominant in the region’s social structure. He then shared his view on the eco-theology initiative.

"Palembang is predominantly Malay in its social entities. I believe this strongly aligns with the eco-theology program we are promoting," he said.

He added that cultural and religious movements have strong potential to build sustainable ecological awareness. Such approaches can make environmental values more grounded and widely accepted. He stressed that this movement can grow into long-term societal habits.