Semarang, NU Online
Mayor of Semarang, Central Java Hendrar Prihadi was committed to supporting any Kiai Sholeh Darat-related activities. The man popularly called Mas Hendi said, Kiai Sholeh Darat was a prominent figure having become such an important asset of the Semarang city so it is appropriate that the people and the Semarang City administration to commemorate the Kiai Sholeh Darat's legacies through the so-called Haul (annual gathering) held annually on 10th of Shawwal.

"Kiai Sholeh Darat is a great figure. (He is) a great scholar who became a reference of knowledge for the national scholars. The Semarang City administration is ready to always support various activities related to Kiai Sholeh Darat for he is an asset of Semarang," Hendi addressed thousands of attendees in commemorating the 116th Haul of Kiai Sholeh Darat at the Darat mosque on Friday (15/7).

He called on people to emulate Kiai Sholeh Darat in teaching Islam and sowing the seeds of peace. Due to his contribution in spreading the teachings of Islam, the people of Semarang have till now lived together in peace and harmony.

The Kiai Sholeh Darat's role, according to Hendi, is very important for Semarang in parcicular for being capable of attracting many figures to come to Darat Islamic boarding school (pesantren) such as KH Hasyim Asy'ari, the founder of Nahdlatul Ulama, KH Ahmad Dahlan the founder of Muhammadiyah, RA Kartini the national hero and so fourth.

"Because of the Kiai Sholeh Darat's significant role, Semarang has become the source of knowledge. It bring a good name to the city of Semarang. We must mantain and preserve the good deeds inherited by Kiai Sholeh Darat, "he said.

Accompanied by with North Semarang sub-district head, Dadapsari village chief and several officials of the Semarang City administration, Hendi personally and on behalf of government also apologized to all people attending at the religious gathering for possible unpopular policies. (Ichwan/Masdar)