Jakarta – In a powerful display of unity and compassion, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of Indonesia (JAI) brought together more than 20,031 people across 23 simultaneous locations for its 2025 Jalsah Salanah (annual national gathering) from December 5-7 – a weekend that blended spiritual celebration with urgent action to support disaster victims in Sumatra.
Against the backdrop of recent calamities hitting parts of the island, JAI National Amir Zaki Firdaus Syahid, ST, MT, opened the event with a heartfelt address that struck a chord with attendees. “Today, as we gather in faith, our hearts are heavy with grief for our brothers and sisters in Sumatra,” he declared. “I call on every Ahmadiyya Muslim in Indonesia to rise to this moment – to give not just money, but tangible, meaningful support to those who have lost everything.”
This call to action was not just words: JAI’s social wing, Humanity First (HF) Indonesia, had already mobilized teams to deliver staple food, ready-to-eat meals, and essential supplies to Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. In a move that underscored the community’s commitment to solidarity over ceremony, JAI made the difficult decision to postpone its West Sumatra gathering as a mark of respect – and donated all food and preparations meant for the event directly to affected communities.
Beyond disaster relief, the gathering served as a powerful testament to the Ahmadiyya community’s openness and commitment to national unity. Hundreds of non-Ahmadi guests – including government officials, security personnel, academics, religious leaders, and community figures from diverse backgrounds – joined the celebrations, breaking down barriers and highlighting the role of interfaith and intergroup cooperation in building a stronger Indonesia.
In Banten province, two sites – JAI’s Gondrong branch (Cipondoh District) and Paninggilan branch (Ciledug District) – saw lively gatherings where leaders from across sectors shared messages of harmony. The Banten event wrapped up on Sunday with the National Amir’s closing message, a unifying prayer, and a reception that brought participants and guests together in a spirit of friendship.
JAI also recognized the critical role of authorities in ensuring the event ran safely and smoothly, with no significant disruptions reported at any location. “We extend our deepest gratitude to President Prabowo Subianto, the National Police Chief, the Home Affairs Minister, and all regional leaders – from regents to sub-district heads,” JAI stated. “They have honorably upheld the constitution, guaranteeing our rights as citizens to assemble, worship, and stand together in service of our nation.”
In every corner of the country where the Jalsah Salanah took place, the message was clear: faith is most powerful when paired with action, and unity is the strongest tool in facing both spiritual and societal challenges.
(Quoted from a press conference; written by journalist Hervin, edited by Romo Kefas)