RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia and Singapore reaffirmed their commitment to promoting religious moderation and interfaith harmony, as Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar meet with Singapore's eighth President Halimah Yacob on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

The meeting, held at Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque, highlighted Indonesia's model of peaceful coexistence as an inspiration for Southeast Asia and the wider world.

During the meeting, Minister Nasaruddin introduced Halimah to Silaturahmi Tunnel, which links Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral, describing it as a symbol of Indonesia's commitment to religious tolerance.

He explained that the tunnel represents more than physical infrastructure, reflecting the spirit of peaceful coexistence between faith communities.

"We want to show the world how followers of different religions can live together harmoniously," Minister Nasaruddin said, as quoted on the ministry's official website.

"Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral are not just neighbors but active partners collaborating in social, educational, and humanitarian programs," he added.

He also emphasized that houses of worship should serve not only as places of worship but also as centers for community empowerment.

“At Istiqlal Mosque, we embrace the principle that it is not the people who empower the mosque, but the mosque that empowers the community. This is the model we have developed,” he said.

The minister highlighted Istiqlal Mosque's international partnerships, including collaborations with leading universities in the United States. Through its future Islamic scholar program, participants spend six months studying in the U.S. and another six months at Al-Azhar University in Egypt.

The initiative aims to prepare Indonesian religious scholars with global competencies, enabling them to communicate effectively in both English and Arabic while responding to growing international demand for Indonesian imams.

Halimah praised Indonesia's approach, saying that the collaboration between Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral offers an inspiring example at a time when the world is searching for successful models of interfaith cooperation.

"The world is looking for models that can inspire others. What has been built at Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral is a very important example. It creates opportunities for people to work closely together beyond religious boundaries," she said.

She noted that Singapore adopts a similar approach to managing diversity, with mosques welcoming non-Muslims through inclusive community programs.

Halimah expressed hope that Indonesia and Singapore could strengthen cooperation to promote this model of religious harmony across Southeast Asia and globally.

Minister Nasaruddin also stressed the growing importance of religious diplomacy in addressing global challenges, proposing that it become part of formal diplomatic engagement, including among ambassadors.

"For humanity, there is no better alternative to building trust than through religious diplomacy," he concluded. ***