Gontor's 100th Anniversary: Kiai Hasan's Humorous Speech to President Prabowo

Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor (PMDG), a prominent Islamic boarding school in Indonesia, celebrated its 100th anniversary with a ceremony in Ponorogo on Saturday (15/9). President Prabowo Subianto attended the event. In his welcoming speech, KH Hasan Abdullah Sahal, the leader of PMDG, delivered remarks laced with humor. He began with a lighthearted "Sorry Yee" and touched upon themes of "seeking favor," the pursuit of academic degrees, fame, wealth, and positions, eliciting laughter from the audience. "I don't want to say anything uncomfortable, Mr. President. Sorry yee," Kiai Hasan said, as quoted by detikJateng. However, underlying the humor was Gontor's firm commitment to contributing to nation-building through education. Referencing former President Soekarno's message to "never forget history," Kiai Hasan stated, "Gontor is not satisfied with just learning from history; we aim to build history. Be smart in responding to history because we will build history. Don't surrender to history." Kiai Hasan also highlighted Gontor's role in fostering unity among diverse Islamic organizations. He noted that students from NU (Nahdlatul Ulama) and Muhammadiyah backgrounds study at Gontor and contribute to their respective communities. He humorously shared his personal family situation, stating, "Some say I lean towards Muhammadiyah, even a bit Wahabi. But all my sons-in-law are from NU. As a result, I've gained a new title: Hasan Abdullah Aswabi (Aswaja-Wahabi)," illustrating the acceptance of diversity. In his address, President Prabowo urged Gontor's students to carry forward the nation's great endeavor. "You are the ones who will take over. You will continue our struggle," Prabowo said. He encouraged them to uphold the noble ideals instilled by Gontor's founders—K.H. Ahmad Sahal, K.H. Zainuddin Fananie, and K.H. Imam Zarkasyi—and to do their best for the nation and the Muslim community. Founded in 1924, Gontor has contributed to Indonesia's independence and development through Islamic education. Its educational philosophy has spread globally, with alumni actively contributing in various societal sectors. Source: CNN Indonesia