On Thursday, April 10, 2025, the Faculty of Public Health (FPH) at Universitas Indonesia (UI) held a Halalbihalal event in celebration of Eid al-Fitr 1446 H. Taking place in the Doctoral Promotion Room, the event offered a precious opportunity to strengthen the bonds of the entire FPH UI community.
“I say taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum; please forgive all my physical and emotional shortcomings on behalf of the entire FPH UI family, especially throughout our efforts in facilitating education at our shared home,” said the Dean of FPH UI, Prof. dr. Mondastri Korib Sudryo, M.S., D.Sc., in his opening remarks.
Furthermore, Prof. Mondastri emphasized the importance of this gathering as a means to reinforce Islamic brotherhood while maintaining solidarity across different faiths. “Although presented in an Islamic format, Halalbihalal is an Indonesian cultural tradition that invites all elements, including non-Muslims, to unite as one citizenry. This aligns with UI’s spirit of ‘Unggul, Impactful’ for Indonesia,” he added.
At this year’s Halalbihalal, the FPH UI Professors—Prof. Drs. Bambang Wispriyono, Apt., Ph.D.; Prof. Dr. drg. Wachyu Sulistiadi, M.A.R.S.; Prof. Dr. Ede Surya Darmawan, S.K.M., M.D.M.; Prof. Dr. Besral, S.K.M., M.Sc.; and Prof. Ir. Ahmad Syafiq, M.Sc., Ph.D.—graced the occasion by reciting Surah Al-Mulk. This recitation served as a reminder of Allah SWT’s greatness and power over all things.
The highlight of the Halalbihalal was a sermon delivered by K.H. M. Cholil Nafis, Lc., S.Ag., M.A., Ph.D., Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council’s Dakwah and Ukhuwah Division. In his sermon, K.H. Cholil Nafis explored the spiritual, social, and health dimensions of fasting and Halalbihalal.
“Halalbihalal is not just a tradition; it has a basis in worship. Its simple yet profound goal is forgiveness and the strengthening of human relationships,” explained K.H. Cholil Nafis.
He also linked silaturahim (maintaining ties) with holistic health benefits: “Silaturahim is an act of worship that positively impacts physical, social, and spiritual well-being. It prevents dementia by exercising memory and brings joy—especially when extended without distinction. Through silaturahim, we can even perform the simplest charity: a smile, which is also a good exercise for our lips and mouth,” he added to smiles from participants.
The Halalbihalal event was also enlivened by performances from Chandra and Friends, who sang “Tombo Ati.” The group featured a collaborative ensemble of faculty and staff: Dr. dr. Chandra Satrya, M.App.Sc.; Dr. Ir. Asih Setiarini, M.Sc.; Prof. Dr. drg. Sandra Fikawati, M.P.H.; Prof. Dr. dra. Dumilah Ayuningtyas, M.A.R.S.; Renti Mahkota, S.K.M., M.Epid.; dr. Fathimah S. Sigit, M.Res., Ph.D.; and Rosmaida, S.K.M.
This Halalbihalal became a reflective and warm-hearted moment. Beyond tradition, the event embodied the values of unity and diversity that are always upheld within FPH UI. (wrk)