DEPOK, 13 February 2026 – Friday morning at Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII) campus felt different. Not merely the start of a weekend, today marked a significant milestone: the official inauguration of the new board for the campus mosque’s DKM (Dewan Kemakmuran Masjid) and the Ramadan committee, signalling a joyful preparation for the holy month of Ramadan 1447 H.

Held at the university Rectorate meeting hall, the event was simple yet deeply meaningful. Faces radiated warmth and excitement, exchanging greetings and prayers, each carrying quiet hopes for the blessed month ahead.

Dr. KH M. Ilyas Marwal, MM, DESA now officially leads as Chairman of the DKM. Known for his gentle demeanour and close ties with the academic community, his leadership is expected to foster a warmer and more inclusive spiritual atmosphere on campus. Dr Chaider S. Bamualim has been appointed as Supervisor (Penanggung Jawab), ensuring that every initiative is carried out with accountability and alignment between vision and execution.

The Board of Advisors is further strengthened by Rector Prof. Jamhari and Dr. Phil Syafiq Hasyim. Their involvement underscores that religious life development at UIII is no ceremonial add-on, but an integral part of the university’s identity as a centre for Islamic civilisation.

Among the Finest

UIII Rahmatan Lil ‘Alamin Mosque has increasingly gained recognition beyond academic circles. Recently, a popular Instagram account featured it among the most beautiful mosques in the Greater Jakarta area, a praise that resonates with those who have experienced its calm atmosphere and modern yet dignified architecture.

“With this reputation, the mosque carries not only spiritual responsibility but also a growing public expectation. The newly formed board is well aware of this, and this year’s Ramadan programmes reflect both ambition and sincerity,” said Chaider S. Bamualim.

Ramadan Programmes: From Tarawih to International Iftar

The Ramadan Committee has prepared a rich array of activities designed to serve both the campus community and the wider public.

Tarawih prayers will be held each night throughout the month. In previous years, the mosque has been honoured to host prominent imams from Istiqlal Mosque, Southeast Asia’s largest, to lead the prayers. There are hopes to continue this tradition, bringing the spiritual grandeur of Istiqlal to the UIII campus.

Charity programmes including donations and compassionate care for orphans will also take centre stage. “These activities reflect the university’s commitment to social solidarity and its aspiration to be not only an academic hub but also a force for good in the surrounding community,” said Aimmatul Yumna, the head of division for zakat, business and waqf affairs at the mosque.

One of the most anticipated events is the International Iftar, a signature UIII gathering where students, faculty, and staff from dozens of countries break their fast together. According to Rivaldy Sandika Putro, the head of division for Islamic and religious programs at the mosque, the event is a vivid expression of the campus’s global character, plates from different continents sharing one table, united in faith and humanity.

Religious study sessions (pengajian) will be held regularly, featuring guest speakers and open discussions on contemporary Islamic thought. A Ramadan bazaar will also enliven the campus grounds, offering everything from iftar snacks to modest fashion and Islamic books, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the month.

A Quiet Beginning

Today’s inauguration was not merely about structure or titles. At UIII Mosque, it was a quiet declaration: Ramadan is not something that arrives unexpectedly, but a guest to be welcomed with intention, cooperation, and open hearts.

In his brief inaugural remarks, Dr. KH Ilyas Marwal reminded everyone not to be consumed by event planning alone. “Let us nurture Ramadan in our hearts first,” he said softly, “then celebrate it through our deeds.”

With new leadership, sincere old spirits, and a growing list of carefully prepared plans, UIII is looking toward Ramadan 1447 H, not in haste, but with the calm that comes from thoughtful preparation, and hearts truly ready to receive. []