In a solemn display of faith reflecting the spirit of solidarity and brotherhood during the holy month of Ramadan, more than 21,500 fasting men and women gathered at Iftar tables set up in the Grand National Mosque in Surabaya, Indonesia, as part of the “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Program for Iftar for Fasting People,” which is supervised by the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance around the world.
This large gathering was held at the Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Indonesia and Southeast Asia, with a capacity of approximately 40,000 worshippers, making it the ideal venue for this event that embodied the spirit of Islamic unity in its most beautiful form. The program was implemented by the Religious Attaché of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Jakarta, amidst a spiritual atmosphere filled with tranquility and peace.
Historical background of Saudi giving programs
This program is an extension of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's longstanding efforts to serve Islam and Muslims worldwide. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Iftar Program is an annual global initiative that aims to provide Iftar meals to millions of Muslims in dozens of countries during the month of Ramadan. This deeply rooted tradition reflects the Kingdom's leading role as the heart of the Islamic world and its leadership's commitment to strengthening bonds of solidarity and extending bridges of goodwill and generosity, especially during this blessed month in which good deeds are multiplied and the values of sharing and cooperation are reinforced.
The importance and expected impact of the event
This event is of paramount importance on several levels. Locally, it strengthens community ties among the residents of Surabaya, provides significant support to families in need, and highlights the value of organized charitable work. Regionally, it reinforces the deep fraternal relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Indonesia, home to the world's largest Muslim population. These initiatives are an essential part of the humanitarian and religious diplomacy that deepens the strategic partnership between the two brotherly nations.
The event included the distribution of complete breakfast meals, in addition to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' gift of premium Saudi dates, symbolizing generosity and authenticity. Among the attendees were approximately 5,000 memorizers of the Holy Quran, a clear indication of the Kingdom's care for Quran memorizers and its ongoing support for their academic journey, which reinforces the Quran's place in the lives of Muslim communities.
Official attendance and widespread appreciation
The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including Her Excellency the Governor of East Java, Dr. Khofifah Indar Varawansah, along with a number of religious, military, and community leaders. Those present expressed their deep gratitude and appreciation for the Kingdom's ongoing efforts, under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and his Crown Prince, in serving the causes of the Muslim Ummah. The Religious Attaché at the Kingdom's Embassy affirmed that these programs receive direct oversight and continuous guidance from His Excellency the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al Sheikh, to ensure that the message of giving reaches its intended recipients in the best possible way.
