Jakarta – Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar stated that the Silaturahim Tunnel, which connects the courtyard of Istiqlal Mosque and the Cathedral Church, will be opened during the Christmas celebration in 2024. Christians who wish to celebrate Christmas at Jakarta Cathedral can use the parking area at Istiqlal Mosque.
“Christian congregants can utilize the Silaturahim Tunnel by walking from the Istiqlal Mosque to the Cathedral,” said Nasaruddin Umar, quoted from the Kemenag press release, Wednesday (12/18/2024).
He asked the community to take care of the silaturahim tunnel. Because, according to Nasaruddin, the Silaturahim Tunnel has extraordinary and iconic value and showcases very valuable artistic treasures.
“Therefore, we also requested assistance from the TNI-Polri to maintain security in the tunnel,” he said.
“Of course, we need strict security, especially since this has gone viral.” Of course, friends will pass by that place and also celebrate Christmas at the Cathedral,” added Nasaruddin.
Previously, President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the Silaturahim Tunnel connecting Istiqlal Mosque and the Cathedral Church in Central Jakarta on Thursday, December 12, 2024. This 33-meter-long tunnel connects Istiqlal Mosque and the Cathedral Church.
“With the utterance of Bismillahirahmanirrahim, this afternoon I inaugurate the silaturahmi tunnel between Istiqlal Mosque and the Cathedral Church in Central Jakarta, DKI Jakarta Province,” said Prabowo during the inauguration, Thursday (12/12/2024).
He said Silaturahmi Tunnel Istiqlal Mosque-The Cathedral Church is a symbol of interfaith harmony in Indonesia. Despite having many tribes, ethnic groups, religions, and customs, Prabowo stated that the Indonesian nation remains united and harmonious.
“Today I am very happy to attend this event, the inauguration of the Silaturahim Tunnel between Istiqlal Mosque and the Cathedral Church, which is one of the symbols of harmony among religious communities,” he said.
Maintain Harmony
Prabowo stated that Indonesia is one of the most diverse countries in the world. He reminded that differences in Indonesia should not become barriers or sources of division among the people.
“For us, differences should not become barriers of separation.” Differences are our wealth, differences give us the energy of strength. Differences should not become a source of division,” Prabowo emphasized.
According to him, the leadership of the nation’s figures and founders has made Indonesia a country of tolerance, empathy, and living in unity and harmony. Prabowo also urged the public to maintain peace and harmony.
“Let’s continue, maintain harmony, maintain the closeness among us.” There is nothing more important than the harmony of peace. Only with peace can we achieve prosperity. Only with peace can we become a prosperous and just nation,” concluded Prabowo.
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