Jakarta, Indonesia – The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs received a donation of 100 tons of dates from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, intended to support Muslim communities in Indonesia ahead of Ramadan, according to a statement from the Saudi Arabian embassy.
Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Indonesia, Faisal bin Abdullah Al-Amudi, presented the dates during a handover ceremony at the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Jakarta. “Here’s intended to meet the needs of Muslims throughout the world, and also Muslims in Indonesia,” Al-Amudi stated, emphasizing the aid’s global and local significance.
The donation, described by Al-Amudi as consisting of “premium dates,” underscores the Saudi Arabian government’s commitment to serving Muslims worldwide, with a particular focus on Indonesia. Al-Amudi highlighted the strong and increasingly strategic relationship between the two nations, characterizing the date donation as a confirmation of that bond.
Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, indicated the dates would be distributed across Indonesia, prioritizing regions impacted by recent disasters. “Yes, we (will distribute it) to disaster areas,” Umar confirmed.
The aid arrives as Muslims in Indonesia prepare for Ramadan, a holy month of fasting and spiritual reflection. Al-Amudi expressed hope that the dates would contribute to a joyful and meaningful observance of the month. “Hopefully, the fasting we carry out will be accepted by Allah, and of course, this gift will be received by all Indonesian people,” he said.
This donation follows a pattern of Saudi Arabian aid to Indonesia, and comes as both countries continue to collaborate on issues related to the Hajj pilgrimage, with Indonesia seeking partnerships to enhance Hajj services, according to recent reports. Indonesia is also preparing a rice shipment to Saudi Arabia in anticipation of the 2026 Hajj season.
