Gus Miftah Steps Down as President's Envoy for Religious Harmony
Jakarta. Islamic preacher Miftah Maulana Habiburrahman, popularly known as Gus Miftah, announced Friday that he would resign from his position as the president's special envoy for religious harmony.
The 43-year-old preacher's resignation came after a video of him and an iced tea seller went viral on the internet.
"With all humility, sincerity, and full consciousness, I would like to announce a decision that I have really pondered on. I have decided to step down as the president's special envoy for religious harmony and religious facility development," Miftah told a press conference.
Miftah claimed that he was not pressured into resigning.
He thanked President Prabowo Subianto for the trust placed in him and acknowledged the opportunity he had been given. "I come from humble beginnings, a background of marginal communities, street life, and nightlife. President Prabowo elevated me to this honorable position," Gus Miftah said, tears streaming as he expressed his gratitude.
The controversy began when a video of Gus Miftah allegedly mocking Sunhaji, a humble iced tea seller from Magelang in Central Java, went viral. The incident even drew the attention of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who addressed it during a public speech, decrying arrogance in individuals who claim to have deep religious knowledge.
Gus Miftah personally apologized to Sunhaji in Magelang earlier this week, promising to send Sunhaji to go to Mecca for umrah or the minor Muslim pilgrimage. Sunhaji graciously accepted the apology, but public pressure continued to mount, forcing Gus Miftah to resign as a gesture of accountability.
Presidential Communications Chief Hasan Nasbi commented on the resignation, saying that it was a personal decision made without external pressure. “We respect Gus Miftah’s decision and honor his contribution,” Hasan said during a press briefing in Jakarta.
Gus Miftah had only served as a special envoy since his appointment in October 2024, alongside other notable public figures.
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