Ashraf AboArafe
Cairo – Bimas Islam — In a move reflecting Indonesia’s growing spiritual and cultural presence on the global stage, the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia has signed a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Egyptian publishing and distribution institutions, on the sidelines of the Cairo International Book Fair 2026.
The initiative marks a strategic step in strengthening Indonesia’s Qur’anic diplomacy and advancing global Islamic literacy.
Head of the Qur’an Printing Unit (UPQ) under the Directorate General of Islamic Community Guidance, Ismail Nur, stated that UPQ signed four MoUs with Egyptian partners: United Egypt Company for Trading and Individual Investment, Aldiplomasy.com (Arabic–English Editions), Dar-Mobdioun for Publishing and Distribution, and the United Arab Foundation.
Speaking from Cairo on Sunday (February 1, 2026), Ismail explained that all the agreements share a common framework, encompassing cooperation in Qur’an printing, publishing, and distribution, as well as the promotion of Islamic literacy and the development of moderate Islamic thought.
He emphasized that the collaboration goes beyond technical production and logistics, aiming instead to build long-term international partnerships in the dissemination of Qur’anic knowledge, religious education, and values of moderation and dialogue.
“Through this cooperation, we seek to expand access for Egyptian society and the surrounding region to high-quality, authentic, and verified Indonesian Qur’ans, while reinforcing Indonesia’s role as a global actor in Qur’anic diplomacy,” Ismail said.
He added that the MoUs also open avenues for civilizational dialogue through the organization of book and Qur’an exhibitions, international seminars, and cross-border scholarly forums. These platforms are expected to foster the exchange of ideas, expertise, and best practices in the development of global Islamic literacy.
The MoUs were officially signed in Cairo, Egypt, on January 29, 2026, and will remain valid for three years starting in 2026, with the possibility of extension upon mutual written agreement.
Ismail underlined the significance of the agreements for both UPQ and Indonesia, noting that they strengthen Indonesia’s foothold in the Middle East and reinforce its position as an international reference center for professional, standards-based Qur’an printing.
“This cooperation establishes official and sustainable distribution channels for Indonesian Qur’ans in Egypt, which we hope will serve as a gateway for broader collaboration—ranging from joint programs and international exhibitions to the exchange of technical expertise in Qur’an printing,” he said.
Looking ahead, Ismail expressed hope that the MoUs would be swiftly translated into concrete and sustainable publishing and distribution programs, enhancing Indonesia’s contribution to global Qur’anic literacy and opening new opportunities for cooperation with Islamic institutions across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.
He also stressed the importance of UPQ serving as an international role model in accountable and professional Qur’an printing governance, while strengthening Indonesia’s broader contribution to Islamic literacy, culture, and the global promotion of moderate Islamic thought.
