JAKARTA– Arini Soemardi, General Chairwoman of the Fanatical Voters and Supporters Community of Anies in Jakarta (Kombatan Jakarta), welcomed the visit of the Indonesian Church Community Association (HAGAI) to the PKS headquarters in Jakarta last Wednesday. The visit was aimed at urging the party to support Anies in the Jakarta gubernatorial election.

She shared this on June 20, 2024. The visit was led by Pastor Shepard Supit, accompanied by 11 other clergy members. Their arrival was personally received by PKS President Achmad Syaichu.

Pastor Supit, a Christian clergyman who has served twice as the Chairman of PGI Jakarta, recognizes and assesses Anies as someone who is inclusive and nurturing towards all religions in Jakarta.

"Kombatan gives the highest appreciation to HAGAI for requesting that PKS officially support Anies as the gubernatorial candidate for the 2024-2029 period," said the veiled woman, an alumnus of UNJ and IISIP Lenteng Agung.

To PKS, HAGAI presented several points considered important. HAGAI's aspirations show broad community support for Anies, not only from Muslim circles but also non-Muslims.

Expanding support

"It’s not only from educated circles and mosque activists but also extends beyond Islam. This broad spectrum obviously stems from the trust Jakarta citizens have in Anies' performance during his first term," said Arini.

She added, various issues complained about by Jakarta residents, such as the religious activists' concern over the halving of the BOTI budget from originally Rp 1.5 million per month to only half by Acting Governor Heru, were discussed.

She emphasized that many of Anies' policies have been reduced by the current official, causing unrest among Jakarta residents. Instead of improving, the Acting Governor is destroying Anies' reputation and achievements.

"HAGAI also feels comfortable with Anies' performance. Many churches have been granted permits by Anies. That is why they support Anies becoming governor again," concluded Arini Soemardi.