Independence is not only a historical legacy, but also a trust that must be continually upheld through work, unity, and prayer. In that spirit, the series of events marking the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence opened with the National Prayer and Remembrance (Zikir dan Doa Kebangsaan), bringing together people from across the country and from diverse backgrounds at the National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta on Saturday, August 1, 2026.

At this national moment, Rector of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta Prof. Noorhaidi Hasan attended alongside Head of the Bureau of General Administration and Finance Dr. Ali Sodiq and Head of the Bureau of Academic Administration, Student Affairs, and Cooperation Dr. Muhammad Lutfi Hamid. The presence of UIN Sunan Kalijaga's leadership reflected support for the collective effort to strengthen unity, harmony, and national spirit ahead of Indonesia's Independence Day commemoration.

The government held the National Prayer and Remembrance as the opening event of the 81st Independence Day commemoration, drawing more than 100,000 attendees. Carrying the theme of unity in diversity, the event offered a shared space for reflection, honoring the nation's founders while praying for an Indonesia that continues to grow more advanced, peaceful, and prosperous.

According to information released by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the National Prayer and Remembrance opened with the singing of the national anthem, Indonesia Raya. The opening affirmed that national spirit and love for the homeland form the foundation that unites all elements of the nation before coming together in prayer for Indonesia.

The atmosphere grew even more solemn as Muhammad Zian Fahrezi, first-place winner of the 3rd International Al-Ameed Qur'an Recitation Competition (MTQ) held in Karbala, Iraq, in 2026, recited verses 1 through 14 of Surah Ar-Rahman. These verses, which remind believers of God's abundant blessings and mercy, created a moment of reflection on independence, unity, and peace as gifts to be both grateful for and safeguarded together.

Before the main event began, the organizing committee held a recitation of the Khotmil Qur'an (complete Qur'an recitation) led by Dr. KH. Rijal Ahmad Rangkuti, followed by the Khotmil Qur'an prayer led by Ust. H. Muzakkir Abd Rahman, M.A. This collective effort sought blessing and safety for the nation, underscoring that Indonesia's journey has been built not only through hard work, but also through spiritual effort that has long been part of the nation's history.

In his remarks, Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar affirmed that zikir and prayer are part of the nation's spiritual effort to strengthen unity, harmony, and cohesion amid Indonesia's diversity. He noted that national progress is sustained not only by physical development, but also by the power of prayer, noble character, and harmonious community life.

The National Prayer and Remembrance was also attended by ministers and deputy ministers of the Red and White Cabinet, interfaith leaders, and members of the public from various backgrounds. The presence of such a wide range of national elements in a single gathering of prayer symbolized diversity as a unifying strength for Indonesia in facing future challenges.

For UIN Sunan Kalijaga, taking part in this national moment reflects the university's ongoing commitment to being present in spaces that strengthen unity and national life. As a higher education institution, UIN Sunan Kalijaga believes that Indonesia's progress is built not only through the advancement of knowledge and innovation, but also through the strengthening of character, spirituality, and the spirit of mutual cooperation (gotong royong) that forms the foundation of national life.

Ahead of the 81st Indonesian Independence Day commemoration, the National Prayer and Remembrance served as a reminder that independence is not merely an event remembered each year, but a trust that must be continually safeguarded through real contribution, solid unity, and collective effort toward a sovereign, just, and prosperous Indonesia. (humassk)