Yogyakarta — In a time when trust in public institutions is often fleeting, Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs, Prof. Nasaruddin Umar, stands out for one simple reason: the people believe in his work.

A new Poltracking Indonesia survey shows that 65.7% of Indonesians are satisfied with the Minister’s performance — the highest approval rating among all cabinet members.

Prof. Noorhaidi Hasan, Rector of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, praised the achievement as a reflection of substance over symbolism.

“This recognition was not built on rhetoric but on real work that touches the public — through efforts to strengthen religious harmony, deepen moderation, and enhance the quality of public service,” Prof. Noorhaidi said on Monday (October 20, 2025).

The survey, titled “Evaluating One Year of the Prabowo–Gibran Administration,” was conducted between October 3–10, 2025, involving 1,220 respondents from across the archipelago. With a ±2.9% margin of error and a 95% confidence level, the results offer a sharp look into what Indonesians value most in their leaders: integrity, transparency, and trustworthiness.

Among respondents, 10.8% said they were very satisfied, while 54.9% expressed satisfaction with the Minister’s work — outperforming several high-profile officials, including the Ministers of Finance and Youth and Sports, and the Commander of the Armed Forces.

Prof. Noorhaidi pointed to Minister Nasaruddin’s unwavering integrity as the anchor of his success.

“He consistently upholds clean and disciplined governance, encouraging openness and accountability. Here at UIN Sunan Kalijaga, we echo that same vision — through digital transformation, academic transparency, and a culture of responsible leadership,” he added.

The Poltracking report further highlights the public’s optimism in key areas of governance: interreligious harmony (86.7%), diversity (80.2%), national unity (77.1%), accessible education (76.8%), and health services (76%).

Hanta Yuda AR, Executive Director of Poltracking Indonesia, said the findings underline how religious harmony and pluralism have become the country’s most powerful sources of social capital.

“The high satisfaction in these areas shows that the Ministry of Religious Affairs has successfully managed one of Indonesia’s greatest strengths — its diversity — as a foundation for stability and trust,” Hanta remarked.

As the country looks ahead, UIN Sunan Kalijaga’s rector believes this moment offers more than just a political victory. It signals a cultural maturity, a shared recognition that integrity-led leadership still matters — and that genuine service to the people continues to resonate deeply across Indonesia’s plural society.