SERANG – Minister of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions (Mendes PDT) Yandri Susanto emphasized that National Santri Day (Hari Santri Nasional) 2026 serves as a crucial momentum to reaffirm the strategic role of santri (Islamic boarding school students) and pesantren (Islamic boarding schools) as the nation's moral fortress amid the digital age and an exemplary leadership crisis.

Grounded in rigorous discipline and under the guidance of venerable kiai (Islamic scholars), millions of santri across the nation are being prepared to form a resilient defense shielding society from online gambling, corruption, and the erosion of ethics in the public sphere.

"National Santri Day represents concrete state support to ensure that Islamic boarding schools are safeguarded. Anyone who marginalizes or disparages pesantren stands against us," Minister Yandri stated during his address at the National Santri Day 2026 Reception at the Hall of Bai Mahdi Sholeh Makmun Islamic Boarding School, Serang Regency, Banten, on Thursday (October 22, 2026).

Minister Yandri further noted that santri are not merely historical figures of the pesantren tradition, but represent the vital heartbeat of the struggle that has continuously propelled the nation's historical journey.

From the colonial era—when the homeland suffered under oppression—to the Proclamation of Independence on August 17, 1945, santri together with kiai played a decisive role in igniting resistance and upholding the ideals of independence.

This spirit reached a defining historic milestone through the Jihad Resolution (Resolusi Jihad) on October 22, 1945, proclaimed by Hadratussyekh KH. Hasyim Asy'ari as a sacred call to defend independence against returning colonial threats.

Furthermore, the dedicated legacy of the santri endured through various national trials, including political turmoil and the September 30 Movement (G30S/PKI) event of 1965, which left deep scars on Indonesian history.

"Islamic boarding schools have delivered tangible and monumental contributions to our national life. From the colonial era and the proclamation to periods of national upheaval, G30S PKI, and the Jihad Resolution, pesantren have consistently stayed on the track of righteous commitment," Minister Yandri detailed.

Minister Yandri also expressed deep appreciation for the role of kiai, scholars (ulama), and religious leaders who not only shape the moral character of the younger generation but also preserve national values and fortify the foundations of statehood.

Their contributions serve as a reminder that Indonesia's trajectory is built not solely through governance, but through sincere devotion, education, and the moral struggle passed down from pesantren to future generations.

"On behalf of myself and the government, we express our profound gratitude to the scholars, kiai, and teachers who have continuously guided our nation's journey," he concluded.

Attending the event was Abdurahman Mahfal, Delegate of the Middle East/Kuwait Foundation. Accompanying Minister Yandri were Director General of PEID Tabrani, Head of BPSDM Agustomi Masik, and Head of BPI Mulyadin Malik.

Photo: Mugi/Kemendes PDT 
Text: Dayat/Kemendes PDT