Pilgrimage To Syaikh Yusuf's Grave, Minister Of Culture Encourages The Construction Of Cultural Houses In Cape Town

CAPE TOWN - Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon pilgrimages to the Syaikh Yusuf Al-Makassari Cemetery in Macassar, Cape Town, Friday (31/10), on the sidelines of his participation in the South African G20 Culture Ministers Meeting. This visit confirms Indonesia's steps to strengthen cultural diplomacy through the construction of the Syaikh Yusuf Cultural House in an area of 2,000 square meters around the tomb complex.

Syaikh Yusuf was born in Makassar in 1626. The nephew of King of Gowa is known as a cleric and an anti-colonial fighter. After the VOC took control of Makassar, he fought in Banten until he was finally arrested, imprisoned in Batavia, exiled to Colombo, then exiled to Tanjung Harapan in 1693.

"Syakh Yusuf's strong influence in fighting colonialism made him expelled far from the archipelago. But here, he remains a source of strength and resistance," said Culture Minister Fadli Zon.

In Zandvliet, now Macassar 'Syaikh Yusuf opens protection for fugitive slaves, spreads Islam, and forms the first Muslim community in South Africa. He became known as the Father of Islam in South Africa until he died on May 23, 1699.

Menbud Fadli Zon was present with Indonesian Consul General Cape Town Tudiono, community leaders and local historians, including Imam Adam and academic Ebrahim Rhoda.

'Syaikh Yusuf is a bridge to the civilization of the archipelago and South Africa. The Indonesian Cultural House, Syakh Yusuf, will be a symbol of the eternal friendship between the two nations,' said Fadli.

The Ministry of Culture targets this cultural house to become an art center, community activities, and historical research that strengthens the Indonesian diaspora network in South Africa and opens a cultural exchange space for the two countries.

With this visit, Indonesia emphasized that cultural diplomacy is not just ceremonial, but a strategy to build a future by respecting a shared historical heritage.