Minister of Religion Nasaruddin Umar Highlights Integration of Spirituality and Empathy in Healthcare Professions
Indonesia's Minister of Religion Nasaruddin Umar emphasized the importance of spirituality and empathy as fundamental values in the workplace, particularly in the health sector. This was conveyed during a National Oration at the Second Bachelor Graduation Open Session of KHAS Kempek Health Sciences College in Cirebon, Thursday (30/4/2026), attended by 65 graduates. The Minister reminded that graduates must not only master technical aspects, but also bring humanistic and spiritual values into their professional practice.
The Minister affirmed that healthcare professions play a strategic role in addressing societal issues, from stunting to limited access to services. "A nutrition expert doesn't just count calories, but safeguards human quality of life. Likewise, pharmacy staff don't merely mix medications, but ensure safety and recovery," he stated. He also highlighted advancements in health technology such as artificial intelligence and big data, cautioning that these developments should not displace empathetic values in service delivery.
The Minister noted that the pesantren-based education model implemented by KHAS Kempek Health Sciences College serves as a strength in producing competent and integrity-driven healthcare workers. KHAS Kempek Foundation Chairman Muh. Mustofa Aqiel Sirodj added that the pesantren education system is designed to maintain balance between academic competence and character formation, with the expectation that graduates can contribute while carrying Islamic values as ethical and service foundations.
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