Sidoarjo, Indonesia August 27, 2025 https://mediarestorasiindonesia.co.id A spirit of faith and unity filled Sukodono Village, East Java, as the community commemorated the 80th Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence with a unique cultural-religious gathering. The event, titled “Tausiyah Kebangsaan” (National Religious Sermon), combined spirituality, tradition, and patriotism—illustrating how Indonesian communities continue to preserve their heritage while strengthening social bonds.
The celebration was organized by the Sukodono Village Government together with the youth organization Karang Taruna Perkoso. A highlight of the evening was the Grand Islamic Sermon (Pengajian Akbar) led by the renowned preacher Kiyai Kera Sakti, known for his energetic preaching style and Islamic poetry that resonates deeply with audiences.
Faith and Unity in Independence
The event, held in front of Village Head Supi’i’s residence, was attended by local government officials, community leaders, security officers, and hundreds of villagers from Sukodono and surrounding areas. Prayers, Islamic chants, and sermons marked the evening, creating a solemn yet uplifting atmosphere.
Village Head Supi’i emphasized in his remarks that Indonesia’s independence is not only a historical achievement but also a divine blessing to be preserved collectively:
“Independence is a great gift from God that we must be grateful for. Let us maintain unity, harmony, and solidarity so that our nation continues to progress with dignity,” he said.
A Sermon on the Meaning of Freedom
During his sermon, Kiyai Kera Sakti reminded the community that the struggles of Indonesia’s founding heroes should inspire today’s generation to safeguard independence in meaningful ways.
“If our heroes once fought with bamboo spears, today we must fight with knowledge, faith, and noble deeds. Independence is not to be wasted—it is a trust to uphold morality and national unity,” he urged.
He also called on the youth to resist negative influences and instead embrace education, faith, and moral responsibility as their guiding principles.
Youth and Community Spirit
The youth organization Karang Taruna Perkoso played a central role in organizing the event. Representative Ka’an Yulianto expressed pride in how the program highlighted both nationalism and spirituality:
“This reminds us that independence is not only about freedom, but also about the responsibility to maintain unity. Our youth are ready to lead positive initiatives that benefit society,” he said.
Meanwhile, from the community security group Pokdar Kamtibmas, Supriadi (Emoas) noted that such spiritual gatherings also help foster peace and social harmony:
“Religious awareness nurtured in events like this makes people more caring about safety and togetherness. We hope Sukodono always remains secure, religious, and united,” he added.
Celebration with Meaning
The evening program featured collective prayers (tahlil), speeches, prize distributions for Independence Day competitions, and the national sermon. The atmosphere was both festive and reverent, leaving the message that Indonesia’s independence is not merely a gift of history, but a responsibility to be upheld with faith, unity, and service to the nation.
Journalists: Ka’an Yulianto / Emoas / Budi
Editor: Abdul Rohim, S.H.
