The Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) for Foreign Relations and International Cooperation, Prof. Dr. Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim, expressed doubt that the Board of Peace (BoP), a body initiated by Donald Trump, could achieve peace in Gaza and Palestine. He also urged the Indonesian government not to hesitate to withdraw if the BoP proves ineffective for Palestine and world peace.
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The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) was one of the organizations that expressed criticism after Indonesia joined the BoP. Previously, President Prabowo, along with several other heads of state, had signed the BoP charter. However, tensions eased slightly after the President met with Islamic organizations at the State Palace on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
According to Sudarnoto, the MUI's criticism arose because it viewed the BoP as an institution with flaws in international law. "The BoP is an institution established by Donald Trump, with many flaws. International legal experts consider the BoP's creation to be odd in the context of the formation of world institutions. Among other things, it is not based on the principles of multilateralism. Yet, the world is currently increasingly open to cross-border cooperation through multilateral organizations like the UN," he explained.
He also highlighted the almost unlimited power held by Donald Trump as the lifetime Chairman of the BoP. Many articles in the BoP's regulations require all decisions to be approved by the chairman. "That's why I don't believe the statement that there's 'no choice' (regarding joining the BoP). The BoP is a dilemma; Trump will become an authoritarian Chairman," he added.
As a form of moral responsibility, the MUI delivered six points of advice to President Prabowo through the Minister of Religion regarding Indonesia's membership in the BoP:
- Urge the BoP to pressure Israel to recognize the sovereignty of the Palestinian state.
- Ensuring that Indonesia's involvement in the BoP must ensure there is no further colonization of Palestinian land.
- Implementing the two-state solution agreement consistently.
- Championing the active involvement of Palestine in BoP membership.
- Ensuring that the deployment of TNI troops to Palestine does not harm the Palestinians or actually benefit Israel behind the scenes of the BoP.
- Indonesia's consistency in upholding the principles of an independent and active foreign policy.
Prof. Noto urged Indonesia to take a firm stance if the BoP does not benefit Palestine. "If the BoP is not beneficial for Palestine and world peace, don't hesitate to leave. The purpose of joining is to defend Palestine. The government has promised to leave the BoP if its actions are not in line with our constitution," he stressed when met by Edy Suherli, Bambang Eros, and Dandi Juniar from VOI at Dompet Dhuafa Headquarters in Warung Buncit, Jakarta, on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
How does the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) view the organizational structure of the Board of Peace (BoP) initiated by Donald Trump? Is it a peace institution or a political "corporation"?
The BoP is a strange and unclear institution. In several statements, I have stated that the BoP is a flawed institution created by Donald Trump. International legal experts consider the BoP's creation to be odd in relation to the formation of a global institution.
Among other things, this institution is not based on the principles of multilateralism. The world is now increasingly open and opening up the possibility of cooperation with many countries through large, multilateral organizations like the UN. Although the UN has many weaknesses, this institution should not be destroyed. There is a strong impression that the BoP will replace the role of the UN, which has been considered ineffective, especially the UN Security Council (UNSC).
The question is, who is stalling the UNSC? The US has repeatedly vetoed UNSC decisions regarding Palestine. As long as the US vetoes, Israel benefits. In fact, the killing of Palestinians in Gaza continues to this day.
So, are the rumors of genocide in Palestine true?
Yes, that's the reality. This is reinforced by America's veto of the resolution on Palestine in the UNSC. Don't blame the UN if it turns out it's the one who ruined it. So, the one who ruined the UNSC is America. Even in the BoP, America's European allies refused to join. NATO is now divided.
So how can we be sure that the BoP will promote peace?
After the BoP charter was signed, it's estimated that more than 500 people have died in Gaza to date. How can he talk about peace when Donald Trump's reputation for peace is nonexistent? He's actually the "inventor" of war.
The BoP is about business, economics, and politics. Through this institution, Trump can still wield power even after he's no longer President of the United States. The articles of the BoP declaration clearly state that Trump is the sole ruler; everything must be approved by the chairman. He also serves as Chairman of the BoP for life. He stated that the BoP doesn't have a veto like the UNSC. Yes, because he alone holds absolute veto power. Countries that join must submit to him.
So, from an international legal perspective, this is unreasonable, morally unacceptable, and historically, the creation of the BoP is inseparable from an attempt to cover up the 1948 Nakba tragedy and the Israeli attacks on Gaza since October 7, which have resulted in numerous casualties. The BoP is simply Trump's way of avoiding international pressure that is increasingly cornering them.
Another point of concern is the BoP's permanent membership fee of US$1 billion. What do you think?
Just multiply the number of countries joining by US$1 billion; it's a huge amount. What is this money for? Is there any transparency? There is no clear roadmap or planning.
They claim it's for the reconstruction of Gaza. The document mentions a project called the "Riviera of the Middle East," a project to develop Gaza into a modern tourist hub that is claimed to create jobs. This project was prepared two years ago and is led by Donald Trump's son-in-law. It's also called "New Gaza." That's Trump's version of peace.
He thinks that if people are given jobs, the problem will be solved. I don't think so. The BoP doesn't solve the fundamental Palestinian issue, which is independence. There's absolutely nothing in the BoP's dictum about liberating Palestine.
So the concept of a two-state solution isn't accommodated either?
This is also absent. The BoP doesn't emphasize that Israel must be punished internationally, as determined by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). If the BoP is intended to build peace, why is only Israel included, but not Palestine?
Then there's the point about demilitarization; meaning the Palestinian army must be disarmed. The question is, why isn't Israel disarmed as well? Clearly, there's no support for Palestinian independence. There's only a political and economic project.
Peace is impossible without justice. That's a point that must be emphasized. The BoP document doesn't mention justice at all. It only addresses efforts to create "peace" in Palestine, not to liberate Palestine. Peace without sovereignty. Gaza is controlled by America, Tony Blair, and Israel. Talking about peace without justice is nonsense. If he were to be fair, Trump should have shouted for Israel to stop the killing in Gaza, but that voice was not heard from the BoP member states.
The future of Gaza and Palestine, according to the forecast of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) Chairman for Foreign Relations, Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim, after the BoP was declared uninhabitable. (Photo: Bambang Eros VOI, DI: Raga Gradana VOI)
Within the MUI itself, how is the debate over the BoP going?
Long before the BoP was declared, I consistently defended Palestine on behalf of the MUI. I recently spoke out about the BoP. Essentially, the BoP is flawed in various ways. Therefore, it would be more detrimental if we joined as a member. On behalf of the MUI, I have expressed my desire to reconsider Indonesia's decision to join the BoP. Observers and researchers have echoed this sentiment.
The MUI itself, through its Secretary General, proposed inviting Islamic organizations and government representatives for dialogue, as public communication has been ineffective. However, this agenda was not implemented due to concerns that the results would not meet expectations. This was because on February 7, the inauguration of the MUI leadership was scheduled; inviting organizations would be counterproductive for the government. Finally, President Prabowo invited the MUI, which was attended by the Chairman and Secretary General.
When did you receive news of the President's invitation?
On Monday afternoon (February 2), I received information that the President would invite Islamic organizations on Tuesday (February 3). I was delighted with the invitation. On Tuesday morning, we held a Rapim (Leadership Meeting), one of the agenda items of which was to formulate what the MUI would present when meeting with the President.
What points were formulated at the MUI Leadership Meeting?
In reality, some rejected the meeting completely, some rejected it with conditions, and some chose to wait and listen to the President's explanation first. Here are some points I proposed:
- The BoP is legally flawed, so we don't need to participate.
- Indonesia's presence there does more harm than good.
- We cannot trust the BoP, because since it was declared until now more than 500 people in Gaza have died.
- Our mission is to liberate Palestine and eradicate colonialism from the face of the earth, in accordance with our constitution. We must not be subjected to Donald Trump's control and be controlled by others.
Were these points from the MUI conveyed?
According to the Secretary General, the MUI's points were conveyed in writing through the Minister of Religious Affairs. Therefore, the Chairman and Secretary General did not convey them directly to the President.
The situation is that before meeting with President Prabowo, the MUI rejected Indonesia's joining the BoP, but after the meeting, the MUI seemed to agree. What's the situation?
The MUI supports with reservations. I've confirmed this support with the Secretary General. He emphasized that the MUI does not support it; there was absolutely no mention of MUI's support. The MUI only conveyed the points from the discussion at the National Leadership Meeting (Rapimnas).
I don't know why the narrative has become this way in the hands of journalists. I've said the MUI needs to provide clarification on this matter. The Secretary General agreed, and hopefully, it can be done soon. The impression is that I've been tough, but after meeting with the President, my stance has changed. This is not the case.
If the MUI, as an institution, does not reject Indonesia's joining the BoP, even with reservations, what is your stance?
My stance will not change. I will remain critical of Indonesia's participation in the BoP. This aligns with my understanding of the BoP and Palestine.
In your opinion, what are the pros and cons of Indonesia joining the BoP?
There are few pros, but many cons. What can be expected? I understand there are economic reasons behind it. First, if Indonesia doesn't join, we will be threatened with high tariffs from the Trump administration. Second, my view—which could be wrong—is that other countries are also forced to join. They are annoyed, but feel they have no choice. This "no choice" excuse is also used by Indonesia.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also stated that there is no choice but to fight from within. The question is, what is it willing to fight for? According to the President's explanation quoted in the media, Indonesia will fight for Palestinian rights in the BoP forum. The question is, will Trump listen?
Second, Indonesia will fight alongside other Islamic countries that join in defending Palestine; if unsuccessful, Indonesia will withdraw from the BoP. I think Trump will listen more to Israel's voice than Indonesia's. I doubt that, although if this is truly a fight, it would be an extraordinary act of courage for Indonesia.
So, if Indonesia joins by paying US$1 billion, the President will face a very difficult situation. Some describe this as "darkness." He dares to enter that darkness, but I don't. Why enter the darkness when there's still the possibility of fighting in the light? This nation has experience; during the Cold War, Sukarno hosted the Asia-Africa Conference in Bandung. It shook the world and earned us respect. Therefore, I don't believe the statement "there is no choice." The BoP issue is a dilemma, because Trump would be an authoritarian BoP Chairman.
He's irreplaceable as long as he's alive, what do you think?
That's the oddest thing. Trump will be the leader of the BoP for as long as he wants.
So, the BoP prioritizes business or economic interests?
Yes, that's what we see. Indonesia also has an interest in surviving the uncertain global situation.
Indonesia has joined the BoP, and leaders of political parties and mass organizations have been invited by the President to seek support. What's the MUI's message?
First, the MUI can only provide a moral message. Second, hopefully, the process the President is going through must be in accordance with the law. It must be ratified by the House of Representatives; if not, don't proceed.
There's also the matter of the US$1 billion deposited into the BoP, while our people still desperately need assistance. If there's no ratification by the House of Representatives but it continues to be pushed through, this will be problematic. The public feels uncomfortable with such a large sum of money being given to the BoP while the country is still experiencing so many calamities and disasters. So, if joining the BoP is an option, the proper procedures must be followed.
You mentioned earlier that killings continued in Gaza after the BoP was declared. What do you think this signifies?
This is a sign that the BoP is useless. The BoP only perpetuates Israel's occupation of Palestine and serves as a gateway for neo-colonialism. There will be murder, destruction, and the destruction of sovereignty in Gaza. Israel holds all control, allowing them to kill arbitrarily.
For Israel, killing is a way to eliminate Palestinians; this is what is called ethnic cleansing. Furthermore, the "New Gaza" project, managed by Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, emerged.
Is the two-state solution announced by the UN threatened with being invalidated by the BoP?
Yes, although the two-state solution is a political decision that Israel does not want, and Palestine is also reluctant. Therefore, this decision presents a dilemma, even though it is an official UN decision. If the BoP is supported, the implications will be negative and even destructive.
While the US has withdrawn from several UN bodies, this is actually an opportunity to weaken their position. We don't yet know whether the next American president will continue Trump's policies. However, we can hope that the American people will continue to criticize their government to prevent it from becoming a murderous nation. The American campaign is "America First," but the spirit of the BoP is "Trump First." So, why should we be dedicated to that figure?
Indonesia's current position is that it has joined the BoP. Should it be firm that if this institution doesn't benefit Palestine, then Indonesia must withdraw even if the money has been paid?
Yes, it should. Because the purpose of joining is to defend Palestine. The government has promised to withdraw from the BoP if it doesn't align with our constitution. However, the reality is that killings continue to occur in Gaza post-BoP. Is the killing of defenseless people in line with our constitution? This is my opinion; perhaps the President has other considerations. Let's wait and see his promise to change the BoP, although I am personally very pessimistic.
Trump once joked that the BoP could replace the UN. In the view of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), is the world shifting toward a more transactional and dangerous order?
I don't know if he was joking or not. Trump has often downplayed the role of the UN and international law. That's why international crimes are often protected by America. If I'm not mistaken, the UN will discuss this BoP issue.
What's your message to Muslims whose organizations are affiliated with the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI)?
Be patient. If there are sharp differences of opinion between the government and the public, America will exploit this to pit them against each other. That's why I strongly cautioned them. The MUI invited Islamic organizations not to get caught up in conflicts that could disrupt stability and harmony. This is what we are protecting.
However, it turns out my expectations were not realized. My hope now lies with the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI). The DPR is obligated to prevent Indonesia from becoming embroiled in even greater problems related to the BoP. Muslims must be patient but remain critical; channel their aspirations through formal institutions in accordance with the law.
What will happen to Palestine after the BoP is declared?
Don't rely on the BoP. In my opinion, we must send peacekeeping troops through the UN to help the Palestinian people. If the scheme for sending troops is through the BoP, it means disarming Hamas. The MUI has already made a decision on that: there must be no disarming of the Palestinian people. It was decided at the Ulama Conference two years ago to send troops to protect the people of Gaza, not to attack Israel. President Prabowo once said he would send 20,000 troops during the 2025 UN General Assembly. We owe a debt of gratitude to the Palestinians, as they were the first to recognize Indonesia's independence.
Professor Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim: Between Helping His Wife, Music, and Writing
Despite his busy schedule, Professor Noto still helps his wife with household chores. (Photo: Bambang Eros VOI, DI: Raga Gradana VOI)
Despite his busy schedule as a lecturer and serving as Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) for Foreign Relations and International Cooperation, Prof. Dr. Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim Abdul Hakim doesn't hesitate to help with household chores. "At home, I still help my wife and the maid mop and sweep the house. Sometimes I clean the fish pond," said the Professor of the Faculty of Adab at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta.
Outside of academics, Prof. Noto—as he's usually called—has a passion for singing. "When I have free time, I usually sing old songs, like those by the legendary British band, The Beatles," said the man born in Banjarnegara, Central Java, on February 3, 1959.
He greatly admires Iwan Fals as a domestic musician. "Iwan's music is not only pleasant to listen to, but his lyrics are also insightful. Besides themes of love, he also produces a lot of social criticism. I think that's great," he praised.
This artistic spirit has apparently been nurtured for a long time. When he first started studying at IAIN Syarif Hidayatullah (now UIN) from 1978 to 1980, he was a busker at TMII. "Even though my voice wasn't that good, I dared to busk. Besides having fun, I could earn some pocket money," said the man who also enjoyed theater.
Inherited Artistic Talent
Prof. Noto inherited his artistic talent from his father, who was also an artist. (Photo: Bambang Eros VOI, DI: Raga Gradana VOI)
Prof. Noto's artistic talent comes from his father, the late Zaini Ibrahim, a historical novelist and songwriter. "I found documents of my father's work, containing about 16 songs. Only three of them can be sung," continued the man who completed his Master of Arts degree at McGill University, Canada, in 1993.
Besides music, his father also enjoyed writing long letters, often up to 10 pages long, while Noto was still at Islamic boarding school. This inspired Tono to write prolifically. To date, he has published 41 books. "If everything goes smoothly, three more books will be published this year," he added.
For Prof. Noto, writing is like breathing. On planes or trains, he always makes time to write. "If it's not possible on my laptop, I write on my cell phone. Writing has become a habit for me," he explained.
Maintaining Health and Messages for the Younger Generation
Prof. Noto conveyed two messages to young people: never stop reading and care about those around you. (Photo: Bambang Eros VOI, DI: Raga Gradana VOI)
Despite his advanced age, Prof. Noto maintains his fitness by walking 30-40 minutes around the house and maintaining a healthy diet.
"You have to be aware of your limitations; overeating is not good," he said while preparing for the Palestinian Waqf Movement in Jakarta.
In closing, he advised young people to continue improving their literacy. "Don't stop reading. Read any book, as long as it's useful. Our society's literacy rate is still low," he said. He also emphasized the importance of empathy.
"We must care about the environment. It's dangerous to ignore it. If you don't care, one day others won't care about you either," Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim emphasized.
"I don't think so. The BoP doesn't address the fundamental issue facing Palestine, which is independence. There's absolutely nothing in the BoP's dictum about liberating Palestine."
The English, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and French versions are automatically generated by the AI. So there may still be inaccuracies in translating, please always see Indonesian as our main language. (system supported by DigitalSiber.id)
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