The North Coast Women’s Union (SERUMPUN) of Sambas Regency held a Halal Bihalal gathering facilitated by Gemawan on Friday, April 18, 2025, at the Pantai Bahari Tourism Park in Jawai District, Sambas Regency.
The event, themed “Nurturing Kinship through Halal Bihalal,” brought together 35 members of SERUMPUN Sambas from various villages and subdistricts, including Sambas, Sejangkung, Tekarang, Teluk Keramat, and Jawai.
A Moment of Forgiveness and Togetherness
In her opening remarks, Siti Rahmawati, Head of the Women’s Division at Gemawan, emphasized that the gathering was an opportunity to reconnect and seek forgiveness.
“Perhaps over the past year there were words or actions—whether intentional or in jest—that may have offended others. Through this moment of Idul Fitri, on the 19th of Shawwal 1446 H, let us forgive one another. Minal aidin wal faidzin, mohon maaf lahir dan batin—wishing you blessings and forgiveness, body and soul,”
she said warmly.
Following her, Masitah, Chair of SERUMPUN Sambas, expressed her gratitude and underscored the importance of continuing such gatherings annually.
“Since it’s not always possible to visit each other’s homes during Eid, this moment is the perfect time to strengthen our bonds of friendship,”
she said.
She also extended appreciation to Gemawan for its consistent facilitation and support for the women’s collective, hoping that such collaboration would continue to flourish.
Religious Harmony and Shared Values
The event featured a special address from H. A. Hadi, Head of the Office of Religious Affairs (KUA) of Sambas Subdistrict, who delivered a tausiyah (religious reflection) on the theme of religious harmony and social unity.
He reminded participants that Halal Bihalal is a unique post-Eid tradition in Indonesia—one that not only fosters reconciliation among Muslims but also reinforces the fabric of the nation.
“Halal Bihalal is more than a gathering of forgiveness—it strengthens national integration, nurtures family bonds, and creates social harmony through togetherness,”
he explained.
He also highlighted the spiritual significance of maintaining silaturahmi (brotherhood and social ties) in Islam, noting that it is believed to extend one’s lifespan and open doors to sustenance.
“Let us preserve the trilogy of interfaith harmony: tolerance, equality, and collaboration,”
he concluded.
The Halal Bihalal celebration by SERUMPUN Sambas stands as a reflection of grassroots solidarity and women’s leadership in maintaining social cohesion, proving that community resilience grows strongest through kindness, dialogue, and shared humanity.