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 emphasized 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 school is crucial, and we must support it. Many Hadiths emphasize the importance of providing adequate nutrition to children, especially during their brain development stage,” Nasaruddin said to reporters on Saturday (May 12).
He noted that such a policy should have been implemented earlier, but he welcomes its introduction now, believing 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 highlighted in the media the necessity of paying special attention to children, particularly in terms of nutrition,” he added.
Nasaruddin recalled Prophet Muhammad Shalallahu Alaihi Wassalam’s emphasis on caring for children, making the free meal policy both Islamic and religious.
“Prophet Muhammad Shalallahu Alaihi Wassalam paid great attention to children. For example, 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 importance of nurturing children in terms of nutrition, education, and parental care,” Nasaruddin explained.
He also pointed out that the policy could help orphaned and neglected children who may lack access to proper nutrition.
“Once again, the Quran reminds us of the importance of caring for orphans. ‘Did you see the one who denies the Recompense? For that is the one who drives away the orphan.’,” Nasaruddin quoted, referring to a verse emphasizing the care for orphans.
Nasaruddin’s support for the free nutritious meal policy highlights its Islamic values and focus on the overall well-being and development of children. (RR)
