Contributor: Dadi Darmadi | Editor: Supriyono | Photo: MUI
In recognition of their exceptional leadership in fostering peace and diplomacy, the Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI) awarded the Peace Mujahid Award to H.M. Jusuf Kalla, and the Diplomacy Mujahidah Award to Retno Marsudi. These accolades highlight their consistent efforts to promote global peace in the face of today’s complex challenges.
Jusuf Kalla, former Vice President of Indonesia and current Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII), has long been an advocate for mediation in conflict zones.
Alongside him, Retno Marsudi, Indonesia’s Foreign Minister and also a member of the UIII Board of Trustees, continues to be a staunch diplomat for humanitarian causes.
Their combined efforts, rooted in Islamic values and humanitarian principles, were acknowledged during an award ceremony at the Grand Sahid Hotel in Jakarta on October 3, 2024.
Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim, Chair of the MUI's Department of Foreign Relations and International Cooperation, praised their leadership for bridging nations, saying, “Their inclusive and constructive approach has united divided societies and cultures.”
Both Jusuf Kalla and Retno Marsudi have long been global symbols of Indonesia’s dedication to peacebuilding, with Kalla focusing on conflict resolution and Marsudi championing human rights, particularly in defense of Palestine. These values are also core to UIII’s mission of promoting Wasathiyah Islam and creating future global leaders who are committed to peace and justice.
Kalla, expressing his gratitude, remarked, “The efforts we make are in line with our constitutional duty, and more importantly, with our faith. Peace is a shared responsibility of all Indonesians, and it is our mission to pass these values to the next generation.”
UIII is positioned to cultivate leaders who will carry forward their legacy of peace, diplomacy, and commitment to global humanitarian causes. As a university dedicated to Islamic thought and leadership, UIII aspires to contribute to a more peaceful and just world, a vision shared by both Jusuf Kalla and Retno Marsudi.