“This center will change the world’s scientific map” - the Indonesian expert

Fifta Wardhani, an officer of the Public Relations Department at Indonesia’s Cultural Heritage Agency, shared her views on the common roots connecting the two countries during her visit to the Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan.

According to the Indonesian expert, a distinctive feature of Indonesian culture is its ability to preserve itself by harmoniously blending external influences with local traditions. Elements of Hindu-Buddhist beliefs have survived into the Islamic era as part of the cultural layer.

“Although Uzbekistan and Indonesia are located on opposite sides of the world geographically, they are united by Islamic and cultural affinity. Islam was introduced to Indonesia through merchants from Western Asia. Initially, they were engaged in the spice trade, but later their religious influence spread widely among the local population. This laid the foundation for the formation of cultural ties,” she noted.

 

Speaking about relations with Uzbekistan, she added: “Many of Imam al-Bukhari’s hadiths are still studied and preserved in manuscript form in Indonesia. These manuscripts could be exhibited in future joint exhibitions with Uzbekistan.”

Fifta Wardhani highly praised the initiative to build the Center for Islamic Civilization, expressing her confidence that it would become an important scientific hub for the whole world:

“If Uzbekistan can turn this center into a venue for studying Islamic history and the heritage of great scholars, it will be a major achievement not only for the country but for the entire world. Students, scholars, and researchers will come here to gain comprehensive knowledge about Islamic history,” emphasized the Indonesian expert.