THE MINISTRY of Foreign Affairs appreciates the publication of the book The Desire of the Founders of the Nation for Palestine which records the historical traces of Indonesia’s diplomatic struggle in fighting for Palestinian independence.
This book, written by two researchers Hadi Nur Ramadhan and Pizaro Gozali Idrus, summarizes the ideas and thoughts of the nation’s founders, from Soekarno, Mohammad Hatta, Agus Salim, Mohammad Roem, Mohammad Natsir, to Sunario Sastrowardoyo.
In his remarks, the Director General of Protocol and Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Andy Rachmianto, welcomed the publication of this historic book published by the Nusantara Palestine Center.
“From this book we can trace the struggle of the founding fathers for Palestine and Indonesia’s historical debt to Palestine,” said Andy at the book launch in Jakarta, Monday (28/10), as quoted in a press release.
Andy said Indonesia is committed to continuing to be at the forefront of efforts to liberate the Palestinian people.
“In President Prabowo Subianto’s first inauguration speech, we heard the word Palestine stated in front of MPR members. “We are very proud of President Prabowo, very proud of our president, that in his inauguration speech he mentioned Palestine,” explained Andy.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chairman of the MPR Hidayat Nur Wahid in his speech said that Indonesia already has a special relationship with Palestine. This was proven by the involvement of Abdul Kahar Muzakir, a young Indonesian who became secretary of the Baitul Maqdis conference in Palestine in 1931.
“So it was very natural that in 1944 the Palestinian Mufti spoke out for Indonesian independence,” said Hidayat.
He also said that support for Palestinian independence continues to strengthen in the international arena, from ASEAN, Europe, Latin America and other regions.
“Currently all ASEAN countries agree to the UN resolution which says Israel’s presence in Palestine is illegal,” he said.
Abdillah Onim, founder of the Nusantara Palestine Center, added that the love of the people of Gaza, Palestine, for Indonesia is very great. While he was in Gaza, the people of Gaza participated in celebrating Indonesian independence every August 17th.
“Before the war broke out, during the Indonesian Independence Day I united the spirits of various elements in Gaza, they were present in the field, they waved the Red and White flag and sang the song Indonesia Raya,” he explained.
This book launch activity was also accompanied by the presentation of awards to the families of Indonesian heroes, from Bung Hatta, Agus Salim, Zein Hassan, Mohammad Rasjidi, Buya Hamka, to Abdul Kahar Muzakir. (B-3)
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**Interview with Andy Rachmianto, Director General of Protocol and Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Rachmianto. The recent book launch, *The Desire of the Founders of the Nation for Palestine*, has drawn significant attention. Can you tell us what motivated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support this publication?
**Andy Rachmianto:** Thank you for having me. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs greatly appreciates this book because it encapsulates Indonesia’s longstanding commitment to Palestinian independence. As we delve into the thoughts and ideas of our nation’s founders, we recognize that this struggle is part of our historical debt to Palestine. This publication not only documents our historical ties but also underscores Indonesia’s role as an advocate for Palestinian rights.
**Interviewer:** The book features insights from prominent figures such as Soekarno and Mohammad Hatta. Why do you think their perspectives are still relevant today?
**Andy Rachmianto:** The insights from our founding fathers remain relevant because they reflect values of solidarity, justice, and humanity. Their vision for Palestine as part of global peace resonates with ongoing struggles today. By revisiting their thoughts, we gain inspiration to continue advocating for a just resolution to the Palestinian issue.
**Interviewer:** In your launch remarks, you mentioned Indonesia’s commitment to remain at the forefront of Palestinian liberation. How do you see this commitment manifesting in current foreign policy?
**Andy Rachmianto:** Our commitment is reflected in various diplomatic endeavors. Recently, President Prabowo Subianto emphasized Palestine’s importance in his inauguration speech, reaffirming our principled stance. Indonesia has consistently engaged in multilateral forums, pushing for international support for Palestine within ASEAN, the UN, and beyond, fostering dialogue that advocates for Palestinian rights.
**Interviewer:** The book event highlighted historical connections between Indonesia and Palestine. How does this shared history influence current relations between the two nations?
**Andy Rachmianto:** Our historical ties lay the foundations for strong diplomatic relations today. Figures like Abdul Kahar Muzakir, who played a crucial role in Palestine’s history, illustrate the deep connections we share. This shared history not only enhances our bilateral relations but also strengthens our advocacy efforts led by civil society and government alike.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what message would you like to convey to the Indonesian public regarding the ongoing support for Palestine?
**Andy Rachmianto:** I want to emphasize that our support for Palestine is not just a diplomatic stance; it is a moral imperative. As citizens of Indonesia, understanding our historical role should inspire us to actively support humanitarian efforts and advocate for justice for the Palestinian people. Together, we can make a difference and contribute to a peaceful resolution. Thank you!
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Rachmianto, for sharing your insights with us today.
**Andy Rachmianto:** Thank you for the opportunity.
