Arabs (Hijazis and Yemenis mainly) in Indonesia (Arab-Indonesians - 5 million + population)

[Bengal71]

Well, you are entitled to that. I just wrote what I know.

I just told you that Arabs outside of the Arab world whether it is Latin America where some 30 million (!) people have Arab ancestry (paternal, full or mixed), Sub-Saharan Africa, Swahili Coastline, Sahel, South Asia, South East Asia, Caucasus, Central Asia, (heck even Afghanistan, Arabs are one of the recognized ethnic groups of that country but have been absorbed in to the local population which is why some Pashtun, Tajik etc. tribes claim Arab ancestry, only a few genuine Arab speaking villages in Northern Afghanistan) have intermarried with locals due to the very long settlement of Arabs in those regions often predating Islam. So naturally for the first generations intermarriages were the norm but the longer you live in a certain place the more you will intermarry with locals eventually. Time will do that.

Arabs married local women wherever Arabs lived (that is why you can find so many Southern Europeans having Arab/Semitic Y-DNA and ancestry in places like Spain, Portugal, Sicily, Malta, Crete, Cyprus, Southern Italy etc.). Women is another question but even Arab women could and married with foreigners. Come on.

Yes, lineage was and is based on from father to father like in most cultures.

Yes it is and I wish them the best and one of the biggest fans of Indonesia and South East Asia even without the religious or close bonds with Arabs.

BTW it is so funny to see how "bin" (son of) or "bint" (daughter of) has been adopted by Malay, Indonesian etc. ethnic groups as well. As a side note.



Genetics are a remarkable thing. Some half Arab-Indonesians look very local while other mixtures look very Arab, lol. Take that actor as an example. Would not think that he was half Indonesian at all although I know that there are many different ethnic groups in Indonesia.

Lol on the last line. That is just Islamic influence. Even some people in a country like BD do that although very small number .

Note the name Sheikh Hasina which is an oxymoron because the name/title Sheikh belongs to men. But Hasina used her father's name in her name being fully aware that it is a men's title but wouldn't let go because of the vote bank, people will be attracted to vote just because of that title of her father because her father is so popular. Same is the case in Pakistan, Bilawal Butto uses the surname of his maternal grandfather because the name Bhutto itself attracts votes.

 

[Indos]

Genetics are a remarkable thing. Some half Arab-Indonesians look very local while other mixtures look very Arab, lol. Take that actor as an example. Would not think that he was half Indonesian at all although I know that there are many different ethnic groups in Indonesia.

Yep, he is really mixed but still look like Arab, isnt he ?, his mom is Rini S Bono Indonesian (native) actress and his father is Ahmad Albar (Arab Indonesian), Indonesian singer.

Ahmad Albar

Rini S Bono (When she is still young)

Some Indonesian also look like Arab despite being native, it shows relationship between these nation since old time.

Cut Tari (Acehnese people/Sumatran)

 

[Bengal71]

Yep, he is really mixed but still look like Arab, isnt he ?, his mom is Rini S Bono Indonesian (native) actress and his father is Ahmad Albar (Arab Indonesian), Indonesian singer.

Ahmad Albar

Rini S Bono (When she is still young)

Some Indonesian also look like Arab despite being native, it shows relationship between these nation since old time.

Cut Tari (Acehnese people)

If I were not married already, I would have married an Indonesian or Malaysian woman. I like the polite and gentle nature of Indonesian and Malaysian people.

 

[Indos]

If I were not married already, I would have married an Indonesian or Malaysian woman. I like the polite and gentle nature of Indonesian and Malaysian people.

Actually there are already many offspring of South Asian people (Pakistani/Indian/Bangladeshi) in Indonesia, particularly in Sumatra island. Even people from West Sumatra (Minangkabau people) who are not in the Malacca strait side have DNA from South Asian. Here is the DNA of Minangkabau and Melayu people

Minangkabau : 20 % Bangsa Austroasiatic , 45 % Austronesia , 7.5 % Indo European , 7.5% Dravidan , sisa lain-lain (others)
Melayu Johor : 25 % Bangsa Austroasiatic , 35 % Austronesia , 5 % Indo Aryan , 5 % Dravidan , Sisa Dan Lain-lain (others)

 

[Bengal71]

Actually there are already many offspring of South Asian people (Pakistani/Indian/Bangladeshi) in Indonesia, particularly in Sumatra island. Even people from West Sumatra (Minangkabau people) who are not in the Malacca strait side have DNA from South Asian. Here is the DNA of Minangkabau and Melayu people

Minangkabau : 20 % Bangsa Austroasiatic , 45 % Austronesia , 7.5 % Indo Eropa , 7.5% Dravidan , sisa lain-lain (others)
Melayu Johor : 25 % Bangsa Austroasiatic , 35 % Austronesia , 5 % Indo Aryan , 5 % Dravidan , Sisa Dan Lain-lain (others)

That is entirely possible. I have been in Malaysia twice and saw many people of Indian origin who are citizens there, not immigrant workers.

The people of Bali consist of a lot of Hindus and they are of Indian origin.

I used to go to masjid and dawah facilities here in Aus and I have seen many Indonesian sisters here. When I was unmarried I could have married one of them if I wanted. But that time I just followed our custom that parents back home find a girl and then we go back and marry and bring them to aus.

 

[Indos]

That is not correct. Arabs have been settling in Indonesia since almost 1 millennia ago. Some sources say actually before Islam. There is evidence of people from the Arab world trading with what is today Indonesia over 2000 years ago. So the old Arab migration are all mixed today and have by large been absorbed into the local ethnic groups depending on the area of Indonesia, say Java or Sumatra or elsewhere.

The more newer migration form mainly Yemen and Hijaz have also mixed. Some less than others. But all of them consider themselves to be Indonesian first and foremost. Just like the Indonesian diaspora in KSA. Some arrived long before modern-day KSA existed and some arrived just after and became naturalized also. Others came just a ew years/decades ago and are thus not citizens.

@Indos can explain more.

Yup, the relationship between Indonesian archipelago and Arab world even happen since ancient Egyptian. Here is some interesting news that has already been translated by Google. There is already connection happen between Barus who is located in North Sumatra with Egyptian Pharaoh.

Mothballs, Preservative Mummy Pharaohs from Indonesia

Ancient Egyptian mummy (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

Mummies became a very popular heritage of ancient Egyptian civilization. Although not the only one, in fact the corpse preservation technique is identical to the bodies of ancient Egyptian kings or commonly called Pharaoh.

But do you know that ancient Egyptians used raw materials from the archipelago to preserve mummies?

It is camphor or what we know better as camphor, a preservative found in the mummies of the King of ancient Egypt or Pharaoh.

The name Barus in camphor comes from an area of Barus, Kabupaten Tapanuli Tengah, North Sumatra.

Mothballs are derived from the liquid dried from the extraction of camphor trees ( Cinnamomum camphora ). In Sumatra, besides being called barus, it is also known as haburuan or kaberun.

J. Fachruddin Daulay, teaching staff of the Department of History, Faculty of Letters, University of North Sumatra, in his article entitled ' Bandar Barus in Historical Records ' states, Barus had been famous throughout the world as a trade port exporting mothballs which were in great demand in the world market.

Its location on the western coast of northern Sumatra, makes the Barus region visited by many merchants from outside the archipelago.

Camphor tree (Photo: pixabay)
Fachrudin stated that there was a statement stating that camphor from Indonesia had been used for preserving the mummies of the kings of Egypt or Pharaoh.

The oldest information about Barus dates from the 2nd century AD, based on Ptolemy's geography book entitled Geographike Hyphegesis (AD 160) which mentions that long before Europeans arrived, Chinese, Indian, and Arab traders had a relationship trade with the port of Barus.

Barus region he called has an important position as an international port that trades barus and incense. Both types of this commodity are of very high value in ancient times and can only be found in the port of Barus.

Other evidence that shows the Barus region as one of the centers of commerce in the past is the existence of the Mahligai and Papan Tinggi burial sites that read Ancient Arabic (Persia) which was estimated in the 8th century AD.

Meanwhile, Indonesian historian Mohammad Yamin estimates that the spice trade, including camphor and incense, has been trafficked in the archipelago since 6000 years ago.

Another history states, in Barus once stood an ancient kingdom called Lobu Tua. This kingdom is estimated to have existed since 3000-5000 BC. This estimate came after found camphor content in various ancient Egyptian mummies.

Barus's trade triumph began to erode due to the expansion of the Kingdom of Aceh to the east and west coasts of Sumatra in the 16th century AD, followed by a trade monopoly by the VOC.

https://kumparan.com/@kumparannews/kapur-barus-pengawet-mumi-firaun-asal-indonesia

 

[Indos]

BTW, correct me if I am wrong here, but my feeling in Indonesia (like in any modern-day Muslim country) is that people (especially the new generation of Muslims) are not really following their madhhab blindly with the extensive knowledge and mixing of information that takes place.

As you wrote, even though Indonesia is traditionally Shafi'i, "modernist Islamists" (Hanbalis/Orthodox Muslims not focused on 1 particular madhhab) are probably almost half of the population nowadays and probably gaining more foothold due to being more politically active. Maybe I am wrong here?

Sorry for the long post brother. I have to log out for now so take care.

Traditional Islam in Indonesia in my opinion follow their madhhab blindly, on the other hand Islam Modernist people are more open according to me. Some people are just in between, they just follow any Muslim preacher that they like.

Modernist Islam in my opinion gaining ground Today particularly because of many Islamic preacher that are well known in TV and Youtube are in majority coming from Modernist Islamist camp, Quraish Shihab for example is Modernist Islam ulama. The actual number of Modernist Islam is not known precisely but since many province that has huge Islam modernist basis vote for Prabowo, at least we can predict that Islam Modernist have at least 30-35 % basis in Indonesia. Actually Prabowo get 44 % vote but some of them are Nationalist coming from Gerindra and Democrat party who are part of Prabowo camp. Some of Islam Modernist are also voting for Jokowi just like me and some of my big family, so the number must be more than 35 %. I voted for Jokowi because of his economic policy that I think more rational and wise. Economic factor become my first priority.

Actually both Modernist Islam and Traditional Islam are active in politics since 1955 where we had the first democratic election. There are hardline follower among these division but there are also follower who can change side. They are united when communist was still part of Indonesian politics. During Soeharto regime, both Modernist Islam and Traditional Islam are put into one party (PPP), but election during that time is not fair so they never win any election. Traditional Islam that is sided with Nationalist comes from Nahdatul Ulama organization with basis in Central Java and East Java. Islam modernist on the other has basis in West Java, Jakarta, almost all Sumatra, some part of Kalimantan island, South Sulawesi, NTB, and North Maluku. Traditional Islam follower in Sumatra and other non Java province on the other hand sided with Islam Modernist. Its rather complicated though.

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

Traditional Islam in Indonesia in my opinion follow their madhhab blindly, on the other hand Islam Modernist people are more open according to me. Some people are just in between, they just follow any Muslim preacher that they like.

Modernist Islam in my opinion gaining ground Today particularly because of many Islamic preacher that are well known in TV and Youtube are in majority coming from Modernist Islamist camp, Quraish Shihab for example is Modernist Islam ulama. The actual number of Modernist Islam is not known precisely but since many province that has huge Islam modernist basis vote for Prabowo, at least we can predict that Islam Modernist have at least 30-35 % basis in Indonesia. Actually Prabowo get 44 % vote but some of them are Nationalist coming from Gerindra and Democrat party who are part of Prabowo camp. Some of Islam Modernist are also voting for Jokowi just like me and some of my big family, so the number must be more than 35 %. I voted for Jokowi because of his economic policy that I think more rational and wise. Economic factor become my first priority.

Actually both Modernist Islam and Traditional Islam are active in politics since 1955 where we had the first democratic election. There are hardline follower among these division but there are also follower who can change side. They are united when communist was still part of Indonesian politics. During Soeharto regime, both Modernist Islam and Traditional Islam are put into one party (PPP), but election during that time is not fair so they never win any election. Traditional Islam that is sided with Nationalist comes from Nahdatul Ulama organization with basis in Central Java and East Java. Islam modernist on the other has basis in West Java, Jakarta, almost all Sumatra, some part of Kalimantan island, South Sulawesi, NTB, and North Maluku. Traditional Islam follower in Sumatra and other non Java province on the other hand sided with Islam Modernist. Its rather complicated though.

Esteemed Professor Indos ( ) at it again with an invaluable and highly informative post about obviously very complicated internal political matters. If just I could say that that the Arab world was less complicated. Sadly I cannot.

Seriously, it is time for Indonesian intellectuals (Muslim especially) to become more visible in the wider Muslim world (Arab world will be natural due to the ancient ties) in order to show that the Indonesian political system is a great success story. The more I read and study it the more admiration I have for it. It has adopted a very indigenous Indonesian model with "unity in diversity" at its helm but at the same time being in opposition to colonial Western forces (Dutch) and returning to local traditional culture (Islam in Indonesia) while also respecting local differences in this regard which the traditional/modernist/nationalist divide in Indonesia is an example of. We need something similar in the Arab world urgently.

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

@Indos what role in the legacy of contemporary Indonesian history do the old sultanates play? I know that their descendants nowadays only enjoy mostly "courtesy respect" and have little to no political influence (if any to begin with) but I am just curious.

Take this Sultan (Arab-Indonesia)

Sultan Hamid II, born Syarif Abdul Hamid Alkadrie



https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syarif_Hamid_II_of_Pontianak

Borneo (West Kalimatan)

Is it true that only the Sultan on Bali has a say (political somewhat) and is recognized by the Indonesian government?

The system of governance in Malaysia is also very interesting. Reminds me of the UAE.

Was also very surprised to learn how many of those dynasties are Arab (paternal) in origin in Malaysia, Indonesia (once they ruled), South Philippines (Mindanao and Sulu) and Brunei. Very interesting.

 

[Indos]

@Indos what role in the legacy of contemporary Indonesian history do the old sultanates play? I know that their descendants nowadays only enjoy mostly "courtesy respect" and have little to no political influence (if any to begin with) but I am just curious.

Take this Sultan (Arab-Indonesia)

Sultan Hamid II, born Syarif Abdul Hamid Alkadrie



https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syarif_Hamid_II_of_Pontianak

Borneo (West Kalimatan)

Is it true that only the Sultan on Bali has a say (political somewhat) and is recognized by the Indonesian government?

The system of governance in Malaysia is also very interesting. Reminds me of the UAE.

Was also very surprised to learn how many of those dynasties are Arab (paternal) in origin in Malaysia, Indonesia (once they ruled), South Philippines (Mindanao and Sulu) and Brunei. Very interesting.

The ones that play biggest role in Indonesia during independence movement is actually Indonesian university students, university graduates, scholars, and Islamist, in other word it is more on youth, scholar, and Islamist movement. Even our first general during independence war is Sudirman who is still 30 years old at that time and come from Muhammadiyah organization (Islam Modernist). The military back up comes from ex PETA soldier (Japanese trained which consist of 30.000 Javanese and 20.000 Sumatran).

Merchant is also playing a big part, particularly Muslim merchant who join Serikat Islam (Islamic Union). Many Indonesian leaders comes from this organization. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarekat_Islam

Yup, you are right there is no power lies on Sultanate anymore, except for Yogyakarta (Central Java) Sultan since he is supportive on the idea of Indonesian independence. Yogyakarta Sultanate right now still rule Yogyakarta city.

Bali doesnt have Sultan since they are Hindu, maybe you mean King ? No, not even King still exist, it seems there is no place anymore for any local Sultanate/kingdom after Indonesian independence. Only Yogyakarta Sultanate remain. I think many Indonesian youth leader during independence struggle just want to create a republic so they dont want to include any Sultanate on their movement. Some Sultanate has also some conflict with Ulama, particularly in Aceh.

Despite so, there are still many Sultanate remain but without any power, they have make some kind of meeting every year or every two year.

https://www.cnnindonesia.com/nasion...di-indonesia-minta-jokowi-tak-lupakan-keraton

Yup, there are some Sultanate who has Arabic roots just like what you have posted in first page post. Sultan Brunei for example also has Arab roots. I think this article can explain that:

(Malay ethnic in Indonesia consist of Sumatra, Jakarta, some part of Kalimantan and South Sulawesi, I am for instant is Minang Kabau ethnic (Western Sumatra) it is part of Malay ethnic as well thats why the language still has similarity.) Other Malay is in Malaysian

"Impressed by the honesty and integrity of these merchants, a large number of Malays accepted Islam. Intermarriage also played a part in conversions, as happened in Malabar and Sumatra. The immigrants did not force their own customs and culture on the local populations. Instead, they adopted the local culture while introducing the doctrine of Tawhid and the requirements of the Shariah. The Arabs were always a small minority among the Malays but they enjoyed a privileged position in society. They spoke the language of the Qur’an and had a reputation for piety and steadfastness. They were sought after as ideal spouses. Even the rajas and the sultans considered it an honor to have an Arab marry within the family and those with Arab blood were honored as Sayyids, descendants of the Prophet’s family."

https://historyofislam.com/contents/the-post-mongol-period/islam-in-indonesia/

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

The ones that play biggest role in Indonesia during independence movement is actually Indonesian university students, university graduates, scholars, and Islamist, in other word it is more on youth, scholar, and Islamist movement. Even our first general during independence war is Sudirman who is still 30 years old at that time and come from Muhammadiyah organization (Islam Modernist). The military back up comes from ex PETA soldier (Japanese trained which consist of 30.000 Javanese and 20.000 Sumatran).

Merchant is also playing a big part, particularly Muslim merchant who join Serikat Islam (Islamic Union). Many Indonesian leaders comes from this organization. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarekat_Islam

Yup, you are right there is no power lies on Sultanate anymore, except for Yogyakarta (Central Java) Sultan since he is supportive on the idea of Indonesian independence. Yogyakarta Sultanate right now still rule Yogyakarta city.

Bali doesnt have Sultan since they are Hindu, maybe you mean King ? No, not even King still exist, it seems there is no place anymore for any local Sultanate/kingdom after Indonesian independence. Only Yogyakarta Sultanate remain. I think many Indonesian youth leader during independence struggle just want to create a republic so they dont want to include any Sultanate on their movement. Some Sultanate has also some conflict with Ulama, particularly in Aceh.

Despite so, there are still many Sultanate remain but without any power, they have make some kind of meeting every year or every two year.

https://www.cnnindonesia.com/nasion...di-indonesia-minta-jokowi-tak-lupakan-keraton

Yup, there are some Sultanate who has Arabic roots just like what you have posted in first page post. Sultan Brunei for example also has Arab roots. I think this article can explain that:

(Malay ethnic in Indonesia consist of Sumatra, Jakarta, some part of Kalimantan and South Sulawesi, I am for instant is Minang Kabau ethnic (Western Sumatra) it is part of Malay ethnic as well thats why the language still has similarity.) Other Malay is in Malaysian

"Impressed by the honesty and integrity of these merchants, a large number of Malays accepted Islam. Intermarriage also played a part in conversions, as happened in Malabar and Sumatra. The immigrants did not force their own customs and culture on the local populations. Instead, they adopted the local culture while introducing the doctrine of Tawhid and the requirements of the Shariah. The Arabs were always a small minority among the Malays but they enjoyed a privileged position in society. They spoke the language of the Qur’an and had a reputation for piety and steadfastness. They were sought after as ideal spouses. Even the rajas and the sultans considered it an honor to have an Arab marry within the family and those with Arab blood were honored as Sayyids, descendants of the Prophet’s family."

https://historyofislam.com/contents/the-post-mongol-period/islam-in-indonesia/

Yes, I actually was told that by Indonesians and also my father when I asked. There was a big grassroots movement in Indonesia and even under Dutch colonial rule. In secret too. Like a hidden government within the country.

Yes, I meant Yogyakarta (Java) and not Bali. It was late and I wrote, Bali. I read earlier today that the last kingdom in Bali ended in the early 1800's.

Yes it is very interesting and I have been reading about it lately also in Mindanao and Sulu. It is interesting how closely related the Muslim populations of those 4 countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei and South Philippines are. Also the enormous ethnic and linguistic diversity. Very interesting.

Wonderful links again bro. Will take a look at them and read them.

@Indos, if you don't mind, could you one day create a thread on this section about the successful Indonesian system of being true to your culture, civilization while incorporating Islam and a healthy sense of patriotism/nationalism that also gives room for minorities, religious too?

As I wrote in that other thread, I think that Indonesia's political model is a great model to follow for Arabs especially in republican countries but not only. As you know very much about this topic it could be great.

Are there books published in English or Arabic about the Indonesian model? Genuinely curious as I feel that more people should know about it in the Muslim world.

 

[Indos]

@Indos, if you don't mind, could you one day create a thread on this section about the successful Indonesian system of being true to your culture, civilization while incorporating Islam and a healthy sense of patriotism/nationalism that also gives room for minorities, religious too?

As I wrote in that other thread, I think that Indonesia's political model is a great model to follow for Arabs especially in republican countries but not only. As you know very much about this topic it could be great.

Are there books published in English or Arabic about the Indonesian model? Genuinely curious as I feel that more people should know about it in the Muslim world.

Yup, Thats great bro, I will try to find a good article as the opening of the thread

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

Saudi Arabia investments growing in Indonesia

Updated 18 August 2019
MOHAMAD HERY SARIPUDIN
August 17, 2019

It is my honor to express my warmest greetings and felicitations to all Indonesian citizens currently residing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the auspicious occasion of the 74th Independence Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia.

Today, Indonesians all over the world commemorate once again the perseverance of the founding fathers in liberating the people of Indonesia from the sorrow of repression, humiliation, and exploitation of colonialism and upholding freedom and the right of self-determination.

The pivotal moment was the Proclamation of Independence on this date 74 years ago by Soekarno and Mohammad Hatta, proclaiming Indonesian Independence recognized by the world including Saudi Arabia, which was among the first countries to recognize Indonesia as an independent country. Many heroes martyred for the nation, and with this commemoration their struggle shall not be forgotten and their legacy will stand the test of time.

The 74th anniversary is marked by several important achievements and events. Last April, approximately 192 million eligible voters cast their votes to determine their new leaders and parliamentary members.

The election was the third largest democratic event in the world. The process was transparent, free, and fair, supported by unprecedented freedom of speech and widespread media coverage.

It has been hailed by international observers, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, which sent an election observation mission, as a success story of a democratic process, which is open, peaceful and orderly in conformity with Indonesian electoral law as well as the internationally accepted norms. The candidate who received the national mandate will be inaugurated in October. It has also been cited as an example of the compatibility of democracy with Islam.

In the international forum, Indonesia enjoyed the privilege being elected as nonpermanent members of the UN Security Council. The two-year tenure, which started in January 2019, gained 144 votes during the election at the UN headquarters, New York City in June 2018.

As this is the fourth time Indonesia has held this position, the country will continue to realize its commitment to promote and protect human rights, peace and social justice within its territory and around the world.

We will foster a culture of transparency, openness and accountability to uphold democracy. In this regard, Indonesia will organize the 12th Bali Democracy Forum in December 2019. This is an annual summit that brings together senior government officials, civil society, journalists, women, youth and other notables from all over the world to discuss democracy.

Mohamad Hery Saripudin



Indonesia also became one of the largest economies in the world, and together with Saudi Arabia, is a member of G20, thus enjoying an equal standing with significant economies. Indonesia today has emerged as a vibrant and resilient world economic power. This year, the government is targeting economic growth between 5.2 and 5.3 percent. We expect to increase the level of ease of doing business from 73 in 2018 to 40 in 2019. These will continuously make Indonesia as one of the best destinations for trade and investment.

As the consul general of Indonesia, I am pleased with the growing interests of Saudi businesspeople to invest and trade in our country. During last year’s Trade Expo Indonesia (TEI), 160 Saudis arrived as a delegation, which made it the second biggest delegation after Malaysia. Saudi business groups and owners signed contracts with their Indonesian counterparts worth $1.5 million (SR5.6 million). This year, we expect to receive more than 160 business groups at TEI.

The strong relations between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia predates the inception of both respective countries.

The Hajj is the epitome of the relationship between the two nations and peoples.

In this regard, on behalf of the Republic of Indonesia and its people, I express the highest gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz for the excellent arrangement of this year’s Hajj. The Makkah Road Initiative, which allows thousand of Indonesia’s pilgrims to swiftly enter The Kingdom, has demonstrated the excellent arrangements by the authorities to welcome Indonesian worshippers. We had the largest foreign contingent with around 231,000 pilgrims.

In social and cultural fields, we have been promoting Bahasa (the Indonesian language) to Saudi business owners, officials as well as private individuals in order to fulfil their desire to have better communication with Indonesian business people and Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.

Since 2016, the Consulate General of the Republic Indonesia has run Bahasa Indonesia for foreign speakers, with more than 1,000 graduates.

I would like to convey my profound gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its people for the continued strengthening of the strategic relations between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia.

Indonesia continues to extend and enhance bilateral and brotherly relations with Saudi Arabia for the benefit and prosperity of the two nations.

The friendship that has long been cemented for decades between us will grow stronger on both bilateral and international levels, Insha Allah.

• Dr. Mohamad Hery Saripudin is consul general of Indonesia in Jeddah.

http://www.arabnews.com/node/1541111/saudi-arabia

@Indos fantastic news. Praying for more mutually beneficial cooperation with our brothers and sisters in Indonesia.

 

[Indos]

@Indos fantastic news. Praying for more mutually beneficial cooperation with our brothers and sisters in Indonesia.

Ya, I think the cooperation will be increased in the future, people to people connection will also likely to increase particularly in term of tourism. More Indonesian will also go for Umrah as our society become both more prosperous and conservative, inshaAllah.

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

Ya, I think the cooperation will be increased in the future, people to people connection will also likely to increase particularly in term of tourism. More Indonesian will also go for Umrah as our society become both more prosperous and conservative, inshaAllah.

People to people relations are almost 800 years old, some say even older. The relationship is deep-rooted in other words. Rooted in religion, culture, linguistics, ethnicity, people to people marriages in both KSA and Indonesia, culture etc. Today in the modern world, where nation states rule, it is bind by common interests and cooperation on various fields. Long may it continue, Insha'Allah.

Some people to people news. Nice story.

Saudi attends marriage of Indonesian maid’s daughter
August 31, 2019




Ahmed Al-Ghamdi at the wedding of the daughter of his housemaid. — Courtesy photo


Saudi Gazette report

JAKARTA – A Saudi man shared his housemaid’s happiness by attending her daughter’s wedding in Indonesia.

Speaking to Arabiya.net, the Saudi man Ahmed Al-Ghamdi said: “This maid usually provides me and my family all household services when we travel to Indonesia. This includes cooking and managing household matters. She has a pleasant spirit and is very skillful in her work. When she invited me to attend her daughter’s wedding, I didn’t hesitate a second. I shared with them their happy occasion in the city of Bogor. This is my 12th visit to this beautiful country.”

As to wedding parties in Indonesia, Al-Ghamdi said: “The wedding ceremonies in Indonesia begin in the morning. These ceremonies are very simple in their details. The venue usually can accommodate no more than 50 people and the ceremony continues until 8.00 p.m. During this period, the guests congratulate the families of the bride and bridegroom. Simplicity and smiles are the main characteristics of these wedding ceremonies.”

After attending the wedding ceremony, Al-Ghamdi was criticized by Saudi activists for appearing on a video distributing money to children in the wedding hall.

Speaking on the incident, Al-Ghamdi said: “It was our driver who shot the video. I joined the families of the bride and bridegroom in their happiness and distributed cash to the kids. My intention was to make the kids happy on this occasion.”

He finally said that the Indonesian people are among the nicest peoples on earth. They are the most friendly and tolerant in the world, Al-Ghamdi added.

http://saudigazette.com.sa/article/575992

https://twitter.com/x/status/1161048199051796480