President Donald Trump's statement that he wants to take over Gaza and proposed relocation of Gazans has been widely rejected. According to the Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP) of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Dr. H. Mardani Ali Sera, M.Eng., any proposed effort to relocate Gazans must be opposed, as it would deprive Gazans of their right to live in their homeland.

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The election of Donald Trump as president of the United States, with his aggressive policies, has prompted many countries to react. In trade matters, the US immediately launched a trade war with China, Canada, and other countries. Several territories and countries have also been purchased or occupied by the US, such as Canada, Greenland, and most recently, Gaza. Trump has proposed relocating Gazans to other Arab countries, with Egypt and Jordan being two of the closest.

Mardani Ali Sera emphasized that Trump's statement should not be heeded. "Trump's statement should not be heeded. His idea of reconstructing Gaza by relocating Gazans is misguided and must be opposed. He must learn the etiquette of living with other citizens of the world," he said.

In Mardani's view, Trump and the US government have disregarded the etiquette of a civilized nation. "The Palestinian people are not just Muslims; there are also Christians and Jews. They have the right to live and settle in Gaza. Arab countries, Europe, and many other countries also oppose the idea of relocating Gazans," he explained.

Following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, the war continues despite a ceasefire. More than 47,000 Palestinians have been killed, while Israel claims 1,200. Nearly all infrastructure, schools, and places of worship have been destroyed in Gaza. According to the UN, there is now no safe place to seek refuge in Gaza.

The Palestinian's long struggle for independence and the establishment of their own state remains a long and winding road. The Indonesian government and parliament firmly support Palestinian independence and the establishment of a Palestinian state. "We remain steadfast in our support for the establishment of a Palestinian state. This is a constitutional mandate and also a debt of gratitude to Palestine as the second country to recognize Indonesia's independence," Mardani Ali Sera told VOI's Edy Suherli, Bambang Eros, and Dandi Juniar, who met him at the Nusantara Building of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR/MPR) recently.

In addition to Gaza and Palestine, he also discussed Indonesia's foreign policy after Donald Trump's re-election as president, the Ukraine-Russia war, Indonesia's involvement in BRICS and the OECD, the affirmation of the independent and active stance that has been the foundation of Indonesia's foreign policy to date, and the role of the BKSAP (Indonesian Forum for the Advancement of the Armed Forces) in international diplomacy. Here are the full excerpts.

How does the BKSAP view Indonesia's role in addressing the Palestine-Israel conflict, and, on the other hand, the Russia-Ukraine conflict?

First, we must uphold the constitutional mandate that independence is the right of all nations. Support for Palestine is part of our efforts to fulfill this constitutional mandate. Moreover, we have a historical debt, as Palestine was the second country to recognize Indonesia's independence. Now the situation has reversed; they are being oppressed, and the situation is incredibly dire. President Prabowo, Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Ahmad Muzani, Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR) Puan Maharani, as well as we at the BKSAP and all parties in the ministry are working together to raise the issue of Palestinian independence.

Regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict, our constitution also mandates that Indonesia participate in maintaining world peace. The Indonesian people are among those actively advocating for peace between the two warring countries. We hope this conflict will end soon.

To help resolve the Ukraine-Russia conflict, what has been done?

We at the BKSAP are one of six Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) envoys assigned to meet with the Ukrainian and Russian sides. However, the results are yet to be seen. Hopefully, in the future, there will be a meeting point between the two countries.

Will Indonesia, specifically the BKSAP (Indonesian Forum for the Coordination of Palestinians), take a more assertive stance in supporting Palestine following the global geopolitical shift, especially with the return of Donald Trump to the White House?

I must first emphasize that Donald Trump is no one. He is not the world's policeman. He is just one of many global citizens. Therefore, America should not be arrogant, let alone act like a thug or criminal. Trump's statements should not be followed. His idea of reconstructing Gaza by relocating Gazans is misguided and must be opposed. He must learn the etiquette of living with other world citizens.

We live in a civilized world. Palestinians are not only Muslims, but also Christians and Jews. They have the right to live and settle in Gaza. Arab countries, Europe, and many other countries also strongly oppose the idea of relocating Gazans.

To what extent is parliamentary diplomacy effective in supporting Indonesia's foreign policy regarding these conflicts?

We call parliamentary diplomacy second-track diplomacy, while the primary activity remains carried out by our diplomats through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We always follow the correct direction and foreign policy.

At the IPU, we continue to raise the issue of Palestinian independence. We also do so at the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly, the Parliamentary Union of the OIC Member States, and the Asian Parliamentary Assembly. In these forums, we urge resolutions, collaboration, and concrete action in support of Palestinian independence.

With the re-election of Donald Trump, how does the BKSAP see the impact on Indonesia-US relations?

Donald Trump is like a drunken thug. Just after being elected, he's already instigated trade wars with China, Canada, and other countries. Those are already affected; what about Indonesia? It will certainly be affected too, though perhaps indirectly.

The impact is an increasingly high economic cost. Global economic growth, which could previously reach 3%, could fall below 2% with Trump's policies. This is extremely dangerous. People like Trump are not only damaging America, but the world.

However, in facing this situation, we must not be afraid nor should we immediately become hostile. After all, Americans remain an important market for our products. Indonesia's foreign policy remains independent and active. We are members of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), but at the same time, we are also members of the OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development).

Will Trump's expansionary measures impact Indonesia?

If we are smart in managing the situation, the impact can be minimized. An affected China could relocate its factories to other countries. We could become one of the destinations for this relocation, creating an opportunity. The question is, can we seize this opportunity?

What is Indonesia's strategy for dealing with potential changes in US policy towards BRICS and Indonesia's strategic partners?

We must capitalize on the market opportunities opened up by BRICS member countries. China and India have enormous populations, providing an opportunity to market our commodities. These countries' natural resources are also extraordinary. This must be utilized to the fullest. If some are angry about Indonesia's participation in BRICS, this must be addressed. We are not abandoning the West and the European Union. Mr. Prabowo said, "A thousand friends are too few, one enemy is too many." So, friends are all right and left.

How can Indonesia ensure its interests are not marginalized within BRICS, given China and Russia's dominance within it?

India has set an example: despite being a founding member of BRICS, its commodity exports to the United States have continued, with its products flooding Silicon Valley. We must be smart; this is an era of competition and cooperation. Samsung and Apple compete fiercely, yet Samsung supplies many of Apple's components. So, it's normal for competition and cooperation to exist.

Will Indonesia's membership in BRICS change the direction of its non-aligned foreign policy?

In fact, it strengthens the non-aligned position. When we engage with the West, we are not afraid to engage with Eastern countries. And vice versa, because both are our friends. They cannot dictate to us; Indonesia is a country with principles.

So, is this a challenge for our diplomats?

Yes, I admire our diplomats. They are well-informed and have excellent manners. Situations like this are challenges they must overcome for the benefit of the Indonesian government and people.

Now regarding our diplomatic independence, how much influence does the BKSAP (Indonesian Foreign Minister) have in determining the direction of Indonesian diplomacy, considering that the final decision remains with the executive?

In my opinion, the term is collaboration, not influence. Yesterday, we launched 102 parliamentary cooperation groups. The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs told me that's still not enough; it should be 150 countries, hehehe. This means the spirit is to befriend as many countries as possible. We collaborate by synergizing with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Our goal of escaping the middle-income trap is daunting, the 8% economic growth target is equally challenging, and the goal of using clean energy amidst climate change is also very challenging. Therefore, we must work together; the House of Representatives (DPR), the government, and civil society have a responsibility.

Are there any concrete efforts from the BKSAP to encourage a more active role for parliamentary diplomacy in resolving global conflicts?

First, we are developing a road map with the government. Regarding the Palestinian conflict, we already have a road map. Regarding improving bureaucratic performance, we have an Open Government Working Committee (Panja). To avoid sanctions at the WTO, we are lobbying WTO member parliaments. Second, we are dividing the tasks: what the government, parliament, and the public are doing. With a clear division of labor, we are slowly making progress. Maybe not leaps and bounds, but moving forward.

How does BKSAP respond to criticism that parliamentary diplomacy is often merely symbolic without tangible results?

We are not allergic to criticism; we welcome input from anyone to make improvements going forward. Today, we held our third public hearing with 125 organizations and humanitarian institutions concerned with Palestine. We immediately created an action agenda for Gaza: who would manage food, clothing, infrastructure, places of worship, education, etc. We acted as facilitators. Each institution already had funds ready to be distributed to Palestine. We called this DPR a home for Palestinian fighters.

Collecting aid for Gaza and Palestine isn't difficult, but distributing it is even more difficult. What can be done?

That's the reality. We already know Israel's stance. Getting through Egypt isn't easy either. So we're working around this with Indonesian parliamentary IDs. We equip our friends who travel there with Indonesian parliament-issued ID cards, such as those issued by the Indonesian House of Representatives. That's quite helpful.

Indonesia is very vocal in advocating for and assisting Palestine, but Arab countries seem indifferent, even though the plight of the Palestinian people is increasingly miserable. What's happening to the Arab nation?

Since the attacks of October 7, 2023, the attitude of Arab countries has changed. Initially, they were willing to establish diplomatic relations, but now they have agreed: no diplomatic relations until a Palestinian state is established. We are pleased with this shared understanding. We now channel aid to Palestine through Egypt, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates.

There's a ceasefire, but in practice, Israel continues to attack. The UN is powerless; the agreement is a toothless tiger. What should we do about this?

The initiators of this ceasefire are Egypt, Qatar, and the United States. Although fragile, we are implementing and pushing for it. True, it seems toothless, but at least the suffering of the Gazans can be reduced. Israel's evil and colonial nature is clearly visible, and the West Bank is being attacked now because there is no ceasefire there.

So, facing a country like Israel, what else can be done?

This is self-criticism for us. Muslim countries and other civilized nations must build collaboration. Israel is strong because it is fully supported by the United States. Now I see Turkey advancing, Qatar, the UAE, Indonesia, and Malaysia continuing to develop. The world is slowly moving towards a new balance. We must be optimistic for a better future.

One of the 'weapons' often used is the boycott of Israel. What about this?

Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) is a global campaign demanding that Israel comply with international law. Boycotts are carried out by citizens, divestment by governments, and sanctions by corporations. If all three can work together, it will have a significant impact. There's an international brand that used to sponsor the Israeli national team, but now, thanks to the BDS campaign, they're no longer willing to support it. We can't attack with bullets, but with BDS, Israel can be weakened.

BDS can be promoted. What if a certain device is only produced in Israel?

Before a boycott, ensure that what we're calling for has been verified. Don't be careless, lest it harm innocent people. We're not banning their food or drink, but because they support Israel. After that, if they stop supporting Israel, things can go back to normal. Also, for certain devices that are only produced in Israel, the clerics can decide. But for me, we'll learn from China: just reject them. We must build our own strength, strive, and innovate.

And is there a lesson behind all this?

Yes, in other words, the power of being cornered. Without sanctions, there's no motivation. No matter how small, our efforts must be done together and in collaboration. BKSAP will continue to carry out its legislative, diplomatic, oversight, and budgetary functions.

Mardani Ali Sera: Enjoying Work Isn't a Burden

Despite his busy schedule in political parties, as a member of parliament, and currently serving as Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP) of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Dr. H. Mardani Ali Sera, M.Eng., is not a burden. He believes all of this should be embraced with joy, as it is a blessing. Not everyone is given the opportunity to carry out such a mandate.

"There's a rule: give work to busy people. In my opinion, people who aren't busy can't work. So when I'm entrusted with a job, it's a blessing, not a burden," said the PKS member of the Indonesian House of Representatives representing Jakarta I Electoral District.

However, Mardani continued, he can't carry out that mandate alone. "Honestly, I'm not alone; I have staff, experts, and most importantly, my wife and children. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) always took his wife with him when he was struggling. When he was tired from work, seeing his wife can boost his spirits," said the husband of Siti Oniah.

Aside from his regular activities, Mardani enjoys growing flowers and various plants in his yard and in the open spaces of his office. "I often look for plants, either during visits or through online marketplaces. Then I plant and care for them. It's a joy to see flowers like anthuriums thrive and bloom," said the man born in Jakarta on April 9, 1968.

Target to Participate in a 10 Kilometer Marathon

Even though he's not particularly active in sports, Mardani still tries to do it. "I usually go for a morning walk. Recently, I've taken up running as a hobby. My goal is to participate in a 10-kilometer marathon in May 2025. I'm currently training diligently amidst my busy schedule as a member of parliament," he said.

Another hobby he'd like to pursue, but finds it difficult due to time constraints, is mountain climbing. "Last time I climbed a peak in the Himalayas in Nepal. I managed to reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters above sea level," he said.

When asked if he had a goal to climb a higher mountain, Mardani Ali Sera admitted he didn't. "When the guide asked what mountains I'd climbed, I said Mount Gede, and that was 30 years ago. Thank God, I was able to complete the climb because the trail was gentle. It took four days, with an average of eight hours of climbing per day," he said of his journey two years ago.

One of the most memorable things about climbing Annapurna Base Camp was the heightened awareness of environmental sustainability. "It's very clean there, we're not allowed to bring plastic or litter the areas we pass through," explained the founder of Mardani Leadership School.

Sharing Care for Family

Despite his busy schedule, family remains a priority for Mardani. He is grateful that his wife and children don't make many demands while he carries out his duties as a representative and party member. "I apologize if I'm often left behind. Life is about charity. When I have time, I invite my wife and children to eat together, especially the unmarried ones," said the man who embraces the concept of Samarada (Sakinah, Mawaddah, Warahmah, and Dakwah).

One issue that often causes him and his wife to disagree is their pet cats. "I often fight when the cats urinate anywhere," he said with a laugh, referring to his beloved cat, Moni, and the four local cats that frequently visit their home.

Mardani Ali Sera also doesn't want to dictate his children's life paths. He prefers to listen and understand their desires. "Children need to be listened to and encouraged. When we do, they will draw closer to us. I give them the freedom to pursue their dreams," he concluded.

"I must first emphasize that Donald Trump is no one. He is not the world's policeman. He is just one among many global citizens. Therefore, America should not be arrogant, let alone become a thug or criminal. Trump's statements should not be followed. His idea of reconstructing Gaza by relocating Gazans is misguided and must be opposed."