Closing The OKI Parliamentary Forum, Puan Calls For The United Islamic World To Face The Global Crisis

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, closed the 19th Parliamentary Union of the OIC Member States (PUIC)/STIMEWA PHOTO.

JAKARTA - The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, closed the 19th Parliamentary Union of the OIC Member States (PUIC) Conference or the Parliamentary Union forum for countries that are members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OKI).

He emphasized the importance of unity and solidarity between OIC countries to answer global challenges, especially in dealing with conflicts, inequalities, and injustices that still occur.

Puan expressed her gratitude for the presence of the OIC country delegation who was present at this event where the DPR hosted it. Moreover, the event in Jakarta also celebrates the 25th anniversary of the PUIC which was founded in 1999.

In her speech, Puan invited all PUIC members to go further than diplomacy.

"PUIC must rise beyond resolution and commitment, present not only as a diplomatic forum, but as a driver of change, as a catalyst in overcoming real challenges," he said at the closing of the 19th PUIC Conference which was held in the plenary room of the Nusantara DPR building, Senayan, Jakarta, Thursday, May 15.

As for the series of PUIC activities that took place since May 12, 2025, as many as 6 Standing Committees (Standing Committee) have discussed various strategic issues, including; Youth and Women, Palestine, Sustainable Development, Muslim Minority, Political Affairs, and Cultural Affairs.

With the theme Good Governance and Strong Institutions as Pillars of Resilience, Puan assessed that this was in line with the expectations of the world community. According to him, participatory, transparent, and accountable governance is a noble value of Islam relevant to today's challenges.

Throughout the implementation of PUIC, firm support for the Palestinian struggle continues to be voiced. The PUIC Forum is considered to have voiced the noble values of Islam and fought for justice, especially over the humanitarian tragedy that occurred in Palestine.

"Let me reiterate: what is happening in Palestine, especially in the Gaza Strip, is not just a humanitarian disaster, but a moral crisis. Indonesia reaffirms its full and immovable support for independence and peace in Palestine," he exclaimed.

Other issues that are in the spotlight in the 19th PUIC Conference are the protection of women and children in conflicts, the fate of Muslim minorities, and the increasing Islamophobia. Puan encouraged PUIC to unite to voice these issues firmly in regional and global forums.

Not only political and humanitarian issues, Puan also underlined the importance of economic cooperation between OIC member countries, especially in halal trade, inclusive finance, and the economic empowerment of the people.

"As a country that continues to prioritize moderate Islamic values and dialogue between civil servants, Indonesia believes that the soft power of the Islamic world needs to be strengthened, through education, empowerment of young people, and women's leadership," said Puan.

The 19th PUIC president said that there are still a number of conflicts that are currently taking place and even involve fellow OIC member countries. Puan emphasized that this is a serious challenge for solidarity and brotherhood among Muslim countries.

"At this time of uncertainty, PUIC member countries must be more active in playing a role in creating peace in our respective countries, in our region, and in the world. But the condition is, we are in the Islamic world, we must unite and not be divided," said Puan.

Puan closed the conference after the forum ratified a resolution on issues discussed at the 19th PUIC meeting in Indonesia entitled 'Jakarta Declaration' or Jakarta Declaration. According to him, the agreed Jakarta Declaration is a collective commitment to fight for justice for Palestine, strengthen good governance, and build a fairer world.

"This conference is also not just a diplomatic meeting. This is a milestone," said Puan.

As the host, Indonesia is confirmed to be committed to continuing to oversee the follow-up to the Jakarta Declaration. Puan added that Indonesia also supports PUIC's efforts to ensure the real implementation of every resolution that has been mutually agreed upon.

"As a woman, mother, and Speaker of Parliament, I believe that our legacy does not lie in the size of the buildings we build. Our legacy lies in the dignity that we restore, for every child, woman, and family, as well as those who are injured by war, poverty, and injustice. We will realize justice and peace for Muslims and for the world," continued Puan.

Therefore, Puan invited all delegates to bring the spirit and content of the Jakarta Declaration to the courtroom in their respective state parliaments as a joint commitment to strengthen the solidarity of the OIC countries.

"Once again I would like to thank you for your solidarity and contribution. I hope that Your Excellency the Leadership of Parliament and all Delegations enjoy visiting Indonesia and this visit brings a good impression," he said.

"As representatives of the Indonesian people, the Indonesian House of Representatives wants to convey warm greetings to the government, parliament, and all people in their respective countries," continued Puan.

The 19th PUIC session was held for 4 days attended by parliamentary delegations of 37 countries out of a total of 54 OIC members along with a number of countries and observer organizations.

Both Puan and representatives of the DPR held bilateral meetings with a number of delegations of friendly countries who were present at the 19th PUIC to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, and various issues that were of common concern.

Although the 19th PUIC Conference in Jakarta has ended, the DPR still holds the chairmanship of this OKI Parliament forum for the next year. Puan as Chair of the DPR has been named the holder of the PUIC presidency this year.

"So this is an honor and pride for us, PUIC is now the chairman of a woman," said Puan at a press conference after the closing of the 19th PUIC Conference.

Puan also stated that the PUIC members had agreed to strengthen the synergy between parliament and the government. "Because we believe that with a world situation like this, it is impossible for the executive to walk alone, the legislature runs alone," he continued.

"There must be a synergy between the executive and the legislature in implementing its policies to synergize with each other so that the policies carried out can go hand in hand," said Puan.