National Anthem Zikir and Prayer Exceeds Target, More than 100 Thousand People Attend Monas

JAKARTA - The National Monument or Monas courtyard turned white on Saturday, August 1, 2026. More than 100 thousand worshipers attended the National Prayer and Prayer, a number that exceeded the maximum target of 100 thousand people.

This event is the opening of a series of commemorations of the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia.

In a press, media, and information bureau release from the Presidential Secretariat, National Prayer and Prayer is said to be a space for reflection to remember the struggle of the founders of the nation and strengthen the determination to fill independence.

The event began with singing the Indonesian Raya song. After that, the 1st winner of the MTQ International Al-Ameed 3rd Karbala, Iraq, in 2026, Muhammad Zian Fahrezi, read the verses of the Holy Qur'an, Surat Ar-Rahman verses 1 to 14.

A number of officials attended the event. Among them were the Chairman of the MPR, ministers and deputy ministers of the Red and White Cabinet, as well as cross-religious figures.

Minister of Religion Nasaruddin Umar said that Zikir and National Prayer were the spiritual efforts of the nation in filling independence. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining unity, harmony, and harmony in the midst of Indonesia's diversity.

According to Nasaruddin, a great nation is not only built with physical work and policies, but also by prayer, morality, and harmony.

"With zikr we grow hearts, with prayer we knock on the sky, and with work and dedication we build the earth. The participants of the zikr and prayer tonight come from various regions, from various religions, together praying for the country," said Nasaruddin quoted in an official statement from the Ministry of Religion, Sunday, August 2.

The interfaith national prayer was led by six religious leaders. They prayed in turn according to their respective beliefs.

The prayer of Protestant Christians was led by Rev. Jacklevyn Frits Manuputty. The prayer of Catholics was led by Father Fransiskus Yance Sengga. The prayer of Hindus was led by Pinandita Gede Pastika.

After that, the Buddhist prayer was led by Bhikku Bhadranatha Thera. The prayer of the Confucian people was led by Xs. Budi S. Tanuwibowo. The interfaith prayer was closed by H. Husni Ismail for Muslims.

The atmosphere of worship continued with the National Prayer led by Habib Syech bin Abdul Qodir Assegaf together with thousands of worshipers in the Monas area.

Before the main event, a series of activities began with the reading of the Khotmil Qur'an led by Dr. KH. Rijal Ahmad Rangkuti. The activity was continued with the Khotmil Qur'an Prayer led by Ust. H. Muzakkir Abd Rahman.