MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto highlighted the importance of kindness and generosity in shaping a better society during the Nuzulul Quran commemoration. The event, themed “The Quran and the Formation of a Nation’s Noble Character,” was organized by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education on March 17 and attended by Minister Abdul Mu’ti.
Brian opened his speech by reflecting on the spirit of Ramadan, a month that encourages people to strengthen their compassion and generosity.
“Ramadan is not only a time for worship but also a reminder to do more good for others. Every act of kindness we perform ultimately benefits us in ways we may not immediately realize,” said Brian.
Quoting a hadith, Brian stressed the importance of helping others: “Whoever helps ease a difficulty in the world, Allah will grant him ease from a difficulty in the world and in the Hereafter.”
He explained that sometimes, the struggles we face in life may be linked to how much kindness we extend to others. Acts of charity, such as zakat and sadaqah, should not only be encouraged but also made a daily habit.
Sulaiman Al Rajhi’s Inspiring Story
To illustrate his point, Brian shared the inspiring story of Sulaiman Al Rajhi, founder of Al Rajhi Bank in Saudi Arabia. Coming from a poor background, Al Rajhi made it a tradition to visit his former teachers every year as a way of showing gratitude. Brian emphasized the lasting impact of teachers: “A teacher who educates 100 students each year will have shaped 1,000 lives in a decade. If those students continue doing good, the teacher’s rewards will continue indefinitely.”
Al Rajhi himself struggled financially as a child. One of his teachers once gave him 30 riyals so he could join a school field trip. Years later, after becoming a successful businessman, Al Rajhi returned to repay the kindness. He treated his former teacher to a luxurious meal and even gifted him a fully furnished house.
From this story, Brian highlighted the importance of selfless kindness.
“That teacher gave without expecting anything in return, and the reward came back to him many years later, long after he had forgotten. Never hesitate to do good. Allah sees and rewards all acts of kindness, whether in this life or the Hereafter,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Brian encouraged everyone to continue spreading kindness in their daily lives.
“May Allah guide us all to be people who bring goodness to others,” he said.
