BANDA ACEH | INDATANEWS.COM – Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf held a courtesy meeting with a delegation from the Aceh Ulema Consultative Council (Majelis Permusyawaratan Ulama Aceh/MPU Aceh) at the Governor's Meuligoe Palace in Banda Aceh on Wednesday, June 3, 2026. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between religious authorities and government institutions, while also addressing key social and religious issues in Aceh.
The
MPU Aceh delegation was led by Chairman Tgk. H. Faisal Ali and included vice chairmen Abi Bayu, Abon Muhib, and Abiya Hatta, along with Secretary General Zahrol Fajri. The visit took place in the spirit of Eid al-Adha 1447 H and emphasized the importance of deepening dialogue between ulama (Islamic scholars) and umara (government leaders).
Governor Muzakir Manaf was accompanied by several senior provincial officials, including the First Assistant of the Regional Secretariat, M. Syakir, as well as representatives from the Office of Islamic Affairs and administrative departments.
PREPARATION FOR MTQ 2028:
MPU Aceh Chairman Tgk. H. Faisal Ali outlines recommendations on hosting the National Qur'an Recitation Competition and religious regulatory matters in Aceh. (PHOTO: Adli Safwan)
MTQ Nasional 2028 Preparation Takes Center StageA key agenda of the meeting was Aceh's preparation to host the 33rd National Qur'an Recitation Competition (MTQ Nasional) in 2028. The MPU Aceh highlighted the importance of establishing an early organizing committee to ensure structured and efficient preparation.
The council also emphasized the need to determine the main venue, strengthen supporting infrastructure, and develop a phased budget plan as critical components for the successful execution of the national event.
DISCUSSIONS ON DISASTERS AND ZAKAT MANAGEMENT: Aceh government officials and MPU Aceh representatives exchange views on disaster recovery, environmental issues, and the management of religious funds. (PHOTO: Adli Safwan)
Environmental Concerns and Regulatory Issues Highlighted
Beyond event preparations,
MPU Aceh also raised concerns over the impact of hydrometeorological disasters that struck the region in late 2025. Numerous public facilities, schools, economic infrastructure, and residential areas were reportedly damaged and still require accelerated recovery efforts.
Illegal mining activities were also discussed, with the MPU warning that such practices pose a serious threat to rivers, ecosystems, and public health across the province.
In addition, the council stressed the importance of stronger regulation of halal certification for small and medium enterprises, as well as improved management of zakat, infaq, and donations through the regional Baitul Mal system.
(IDNC)REPORTER: Adli Safwan | EDITOR: Fik Sagala