Indonesia and Egypt have a long-standing relationship that dates back to Indonesia's struggle for independence. Egypt was the first sovereign country to recognize Indonesia's independence on March 22, 1946, three years before its formal international recognition. This early recognition paved the way for strong diplomatic ties, with both countries signing a Treaty of Friendship and Cordiality on June 10, 1947. As Muslim-majority nations with significant non-Muslim minorities, Indonesia and Egypt share common goals and interests, cooperating in various international organizations such as the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, Non-Aligned Movement, BRICS, G20 developing nations, and Developing 8 Countries. Their bilateral relations have grown stronger over time, with trade exchange between the two countries reaching $1.5 billion in 2020 and Indonesia's exports to Egypt including crude palm oil, coffee, tea, textiles, and electronic devices.
In the education sector, Indonesian students in Egypt play a vital role in fostering cultural understanding between the two nations. As they navigate their academic pursuits, they're also immersed in Egypt's rich cultural heritage, learning Arabic and adapting to local customs. This exposure enables them to appreciate the similarities and differences between Indonesian and Egyptian cultures, promoting mutual respect and understanding.
Through their experiences, Indonesian students in Egypt can facilitate cultural exchange and cooperation between the two countries. By sharing their own culture and learning about Egyptian traditions, they help build bridges between the two nations. This cultural exchange can lead to increased cooperation in areas like education, trade, and diplomacy, ultimately strengthening Indonesia-Egypt relations and promoting regional stability.
Particularly, Indonesian students have a long history of studying at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt, which is renowned for its Islamic studies and Arabic language programs. The university has contributed significantly to Indonesia's Islamic education and cultural development. Here are some key points about Indonesian students studying at Al-Azhar University:
- Historical Significance: Al-Azhar University has been a hub for Islamic learning for centuries, and many Indonesian Islamic scholars and leaders have graduated from this prestigious institution. Notable alumni include Indonesia's 4th President Abdurrahman Wahid and Minister of Religious Affairs Quraish Shihab.
- Cultural Exchange: Indonesian students at Al-Azhar University engage in cultural exchange programs, promoting mutual understanding and respect between Indonesian and Egyptian cultures. They also participate in activities that foster cooperation between the two nations.
- Academic Programs: Al-Azhar University offers various academic programs in Islamic studies, including programs focused on moderate Islamic thought and peaceful coexistence. Indonesian students benefit from these programs, which enhance their understanding of Islamic values and their application in modern society.
- Government Support: The Indonesian government, particularly President Prabowo Subianto, has shown interest in supporting Indonesian students studying at Al-Azhar University. During his state visit to Egypt in December 2024, President Prabowo met with Indonesian students at the university, emphasizing the importance of education and cultural exchange.
- Scholarships and Assistance: Al-Azhar University has provided assistance to Indonesian students, including scholarships and training programs for imams and Arabic language instructors. This cooperation reflects the strong bilateral relations between Egypt and Indonesia.
Overall, studying at Al-Azhar University provides Indonesian students with valuable opportunities for academic and cultural growth, enabling them to contribute to Indonesia's development and promote international cooperation. According to President Prabowo Subianto's meeting with Indonesian students at Al-Azhar University on December 18, 2024, there are thousands of Indonesian students who have studied at the university, with many notable alumni.
Furthermore, historically there is a corner at al Azhar named Riwaq Al-Jawa, also known as Riwaq Al-Jawiyyah, is a historical section within Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo, Egypt, specifically designated for students from Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines. This area served as a residence and center for academic activities, fostering a community of scholars from these regions. The key features of Riwaq Al-Jawa:
- Location: Situated between Riwaq Syawwam and Riwaq Sulaimani, two other sections for students from different regions.
- History: Established in the 19th century, with records dating back to the 1880s, during the time of Utsman Qozdulgi Katkhuda, a prominent figure who founded several riwaqs in Al-Azhar Mosque.
- Library: Riwaq Al-Jawa had its own library with a collection of 46 volumes of books.
- Leadership: A "syaikh riwaq" or leader oversaw the students, with Syaikh Ismail Muhammad Al-Jawi being one notable example.
- Student Life: Students residing in Riwaq Al-Jawa were required to recite six juz of the Quran daily and received 11 loaves of bread every two days.
Riwaq Al-Jawa's significance extends beyond its physical structure. It represents the long-standing connection between Al-Azhar University and Southeast Asian Muslim communities. Over time, the system of riwaqs, including Riwaq Al-Jawa, has evolved. By 1954, the riwaq system was largely replaced by modern accommodations, and many riwaqs ceased to exist as residential spaces. Today, the term "Riwaq Al-Jawa" or "Ruwaq Jawi" is still used by Malaysian students at Al-Azhar University to refer to their community or gathering place for Islamic studies and cultural activities.
While Riwaq Al-Jawa is no longer a dedicated residential area, its legacy continues through various cultural and academic initiatives. Indonesian students at Al-Azhar University, for instance, use the term "ar-Riwāq al-Indūnīsiy" to refer to their community or activities, reflecting the ongoing connection between Indonesia and Al-Azhar.
In the past decades, Indonesia and Egypt have strengthened their partnership in the education sector through various collaborations. Al-Azhar University in Cairo has long been a hub for Indonesian students pursuing Islamic studies, with thousands of Indonesians having graduated from the institution. The Indonesian government has also shown interest in supporting Indonesian students at Al-Azhar, with President Prabowo Subianto meeting with Indonesian students during his visit to Egypt in December 2024. Additionally, there are opportunities for academic exchanges, joint research initiatives, and capacity-building programs between Indonesian and Egyptian universities, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation in the education sector. In conclusion, the students’ experiences serve as a testament to the power of cultural exchange in promoting global understanding and cooperation.
