UAE role model of tolerance: Indonesian council

Dr. Muhammad Faiz, Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council – OKI Jakarta Province Branch, has praised the UAE and its leadership for their exemplary role in promoting tolerance, coexistence, and peace among all peoples.

He emphasised the significant achievements of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat in the UAE, commending its efforts to convey its message of tolerance both locally and globally with professionalism and remarkable development.

These remarks were made during a meeting between Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, and Dr. Faiz with his accompanying delegation at the authority’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi.

Al Darei underscored the strong cooperation between the Authority and Indonesian religious institutions in fostering tolerance and coexistence within societies.

He highlighted the deep-rooted historical relations and strong bonds between the UAE and Indonesia across various sectors.

Both sides discussed enhancing collaboration, increasing communication, and intensifying efforts to promote moderate thought, protect societies from discrimination and extremism, and uphold the noble values of Islam.

Recently, the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair held a seminar titled “Tolerance and Coexistence in Islamic Heritage: Foundations and Enduring Values.”

The session featured Dr. Mahmoud Najah, Imam of the Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque at the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi, and Dr. Mohand Mechenene, faculty member at Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Humanities.

The seminar underscored the importance of promoting values of tolerance, coexistence, and respect for diversity as core aspects of Islamic heritage, presenting illustrative examples from Islamic history.

Dr. Mahmoud Najah began by commending the Muslim Council of Elders, led by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, for its commitment to advancing a culture of peaceful coexistence, fostering dialogue, and presenting a compassionate image of Islam.

He emphasised that this culture reflects the essence of Islam, a religion rooted in mercy, tolerance, and justice. Dr. Najah pointed out that Islam is not just a religion of worship but a comprehensive way of life that nurtures human relationships based on mutual respect and goodwill across diverse societies.

WAM