Jakarta — Prof. Dr. KH. Nasaruddin Umar, the Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque and Rector of the Quranic Sciences University Jakarta, has expressed his strong support for President-elect Prabowo Subianto’s initiative to provide free nutritious meals for school children. Nasaruddin stressed the importance of ensuring proper nutrition for children, stating that it is rooted in Islamic teachings.
“The concept of providing nutritious meals for young children in schools is very important and deserves our support. There are many Hadiths that emphasize the importance of providing adequate nutrition to children, especially during their crucial brain development phase,” Nasaruddin said in a statement to reporters on Saturday (May 12).
He mentioned that such a policy should have been implemented earlier, but he welcomed its introduction now, stating that it is never too late to start something beneficial.
“Alhamdulillah, it is never too late to do good. As the Grand Imam, I have often emphasized in the media the importance of paying special attention to children, particularly in terms of nutrition,” he added.
Nasaruddin recalled how Prophet Muhammad Shalallahu Alaihi Wassalam placed great importance on caring for children, making the free meal policy both Islamic and religious in nature.
“Prophet Muhammad Shalallahu Alaihi Wassalam paid a lot of attention to children. For instance, he instructed that children should be taught to pray from the age of seven and encouraged discipline by the age of ten. This underscores the significance of caring for children’s development, including their nutrition, education, and the nurturing they receive from their parents,” Nasaruddin explained.
The Grand Imam also pointed out that this policy could help address the needs of orphaned and neglected children who may lack access to adequate nutrition.
“Once again, the Quran reminds us of the importance of caring for orphans. A raaitalladzii yukadzdzibu biddiin fadzaalikalladzii yadu’ul yatiim,” Nasaruddin quoted, referring to a verse that emphasizes special attention to the welfare of orphans.
Nasaruddin’s support for the free nutritious meal policy reflects its strong foundation in Islamic values, prioritizing the well-being and comprehensive development of children. (RR)
