Image Credit: The Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia recently organized an extravagant iftar banquet in Indonesia, marking a significant milestone in the holy month of Ramadan. The event, held as part of the kingdom's international outreach efforts, stands out as the longest iftar held this year among the ASEAN nations.
The iftar banquet, spanning an impressive 2,500 meters, was orchestrated by the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Call. This initiative, named after Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz, aimed to foster communal harmony and solidarity among Muslims worldwide. Over 15,000 attendees, comprising locals and visitors, participated in this grand feast.
The event garnered attention for its scale and its record-breaking nature. According to the Indonesian World Record Museum (MURI), the iftar banquet claimed the title of being the longest held in ASEAN countries for the year 2024. Such a feat emphasizes the importance of cross-cultural exchanges and cooperation in the region.
In acknowledgement of this remarkable achievement, MURI bestowed a record certificate to the religious attaché at the Saudi embassy in Indonesia, Ahmed Al Hazami. The ceremony, graced by Indonesian Islamic and political figures, highlights the significance of promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding.
Additionally, Saudi Ambassador Faisal Abdullah initiated the Custodian of the Holy Mosques’ Programme, reinforcing the kingdom's commitment to providing iftar meals and spreading religious teachings during Ramadan.
Saudi Arabia's efforts extend beyond Indonesia, with similar initiatives being carried out in countries such as Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina. These endeavours aim to uphold the values of compassion and charity embodied by Ramadan, transcending geographical boundaries to foster goodwill and solidarity among diverse communities.
The successful hosting of the record-breaking iftar banquet in Indonesia exemplifies the significance of cultural exchange and mutual respect in today's interconnected world. As Muslims around the globe observe the sacred month of Ramadan, such initiatives serve as powerful reminders of the importance of compassion, generosity and unity in fostering a more harmonious and inclusive society.