Ahok impresses audience with knowledge of Islam -

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta | January 19 2015 | 9:34 AM

Jakarta Governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama, who has previously been rejected by some hard-line Islamic groups because he is Christian and is of Chinese descent, impressed a largely Muslim audience with his knowledge of Islamic teachings during an event to commemorate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad on Sunday.
Donning a checkered shirt, Ahok arrived at the SMESCO Convention Center in South Jakarta at 9 a.m. He went to the ceremony after attending his Sunday church service. He was warmly welcomed by the audience. Before the event commenced, the master of ceremonies asked the audience to sing the national
anthem “Indonesia Raya”.
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In his off-the-cuff speech, the former deputy governor, who replaced former governor Joko “Jokowi” Widodo in October last year, talked about Islam and the Prophet using specific Arabic terms.

It was not the first time he has shared his views about Islam. As deputy governor he often interacted with Muslim organizations.

In his speech, Ahok praised the Prophet Muhammad, who he said had set a good example as a leader.
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“The Prophet Muhammad is beyond comparison, even with [the Prophet Muhammad’s predecessor] Prophet Isa [Jesus] because the latter never led a government like the Prophet Muhammad did. The Prophet Muhammad had distinguished characteristics, which were sidiq [virtuous] fathonah [smart], amanah [trustworthy] and tabligh [conveying Allah’s messages],” said the governor.

“If you want to become a leader, be a leader with these characteristics because a society will advance only when it is led by such a leader,” Ahok emphasized.

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