Seminar on “The Call of the People of Qiblah” at Islamic Book Fair in Jakarta

The Muslim Council of Elders held a thought-provoking seminar titled “The Call for the People of Qiblah and Efforts to Strengthen Intra-Islamic Dialogue” as part of its participation in the 2025 Islamic Book Fair in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The event drew significant interest and active engagement from both visitors and participants.

The seminar featured distinguished speakers including Dr. Syafiq Mughni, Vice President of Muhammadiyah; Dr. Muhammad Zain Al-Majid, Member of the Executive Office of the Muslim Council of Elders; and Ms. Alissa Qotrunnada Wahid, Coordinator of the Gusdurian Network Indonesia (GNI).

Opening the seminar, Prof. Dr. Syafiq Mughni stressed the critical importance of intra-Islamic dialogue in light of the growing challenges facing the Muslim world, both internally and externally. He noted that these challenges are a true test for the Ummah, which the Qur’an describes as “You are the best community ever raised for humanity” [3:110]. Achieving this status, he explained, requires both knowledge and moral values, emphasizing that scientific advancement is incomplete without a strong ethical foundation.

He remarked, “The key to the revival of the Ummah lies in blending modern science with noble character. Morality is the backbone of any nation—when it collapses, the nation follows.” He also called for greater commitment to moderation and balance in addressing differences, stating that the advancement of knowledge and ethics together is what protects the Ummah from falling into extremism and takfir (excommunication).