Visit the Oldest Islamic Boarding School in Madura, Mahfud MD: This has nothing to do with politics

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA — Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs (Menko Polhukam) Mahfud MD visited the Al Hamidy Islamic Boarding School (Ponpes) in Banyuanyar Village, Palengaan District, Pamekasan Regency, East Java on Thursday (11/1 /2024).

Apparently, Mahfud has his own memories at the Banyuanyar Islamic Boarding School. Because, Mahfud and his father, Mahmodin, often come to the Islamic boarding school. “When I was little, I often came here with my father,” Mahfud told reporters after the visit.

Mahfud explained that Al Hamidy Banyuanyar is not only the largest Islamic boarding school on Madura Island, but also the oldest. This Islamic boarding school has been established since 1787.

Mahfud said that his visit this time was done in the context of friendship and reminiscing about the past. So, Mahfud’s visit was not related to politics. “So, this is normal friendship, it has nothing to do with politics, friendship is more important,” he said.

The arrival of vice presidential candidate number 3 was welcomed by the Head of the Banyuanyar Islamic Boarding School, KH Muhammad Rofi’i Baidowi. Mahfud was accompanied by Gus Dur’s daughter, Yenny Wahid. “Yes, I used to come here often, now I’m visiting, not just now, I’ve also been here often,” said Mahfud.

Al Hamidy Islamic Boarding School is the second location in Mahfud MD’s visit to East Java. Mahfud also visited Darul Ulum II Al Wahidiyah Islamic Boarding School in Omben District, Sampang Regency, East Java on the same day.