PANDEGLANG — The senior journalist and advisor to the Indonesian Scholars Forum (FAI) from Pandeglang, Banten, praised Banten Governor Andru Soni for inaugurating the regional general hospital (RSUD) in Labuan District, Pandeglang Regency, Banten Province, named «RSUD Muhammad Irsjad Djuwaeli.»

«The name Irsjad Djuwaeli is inseparable from the Mathla’ul Anwar organization, as the late figure was instrumental in elevating Mathla’ul Anwar to the national level. Thus, the establishment of RSUD Muhammad Irsjad Djuwaeli ensures that Mathla’ul Anwar’s legacy continues to thrive,» he stated during a discussion in Pandeglang.

The inauguration of RSUD Muhammad Irsjad Djuwaeli was conducted by Banten Governor Andra Soni in Labuan Pandeglang on the morning of May 28, 2025, marking a historic moment for Banten residents, including the extended Mathla’ul Anwar community across Indonesia. Beyond leading Mathla’ul Anwar, Irsjad Djuwaeli was also recognized as one of the founders of Banten Province.

«I remember well that the late KH Irsjad Djuwaeli was a Mathla’ul Anwar figure who deeply understood ‘governance and leadership,’ always emphasizing strong ‘networking’ and ‘teamwork.’ It is no surprise that under his leadership, Mathla’ul Anwar flourished, eventually establishing a higher education institution, namely Mathla’ul Anwar University,» he added.

He also expressed gratitude that the late leader’s qualities have been inherited by his daughter, Hj Trisne NY Djuwaeli, and son, Hj Endi YH Djuwaeli, who are now actively involved in managing the Central MUI and several other organizations at both national and regional levels.

During the hospital’s inauguration, the Banten Governor stated that naming the RSUD after Muhammad Irsjad Djuwaeli was a form of recognition for the contributions and dedication of the local figure who fought for the establishment of Banten Province.

«We hope this hospital will improve healthcare quality, especially for Labuan District and its surroundings. Construction is ongoing, and any incomplete facilities will be gradually finalized,» said Andra Soni.

The RSUD, located on a 6,545 sq m plot with an 8,581 sq m building area, currently operates as a Regional Public Service Agency (BLUD) and serves patients covered by the BPJS Health program.

The hospital’s infrastructure meets regional standards, featuring a modern emergency department, CT scans, 4G ultrasound, advanced operating rooms, and PICU/NICU units.

RSUD Muhammad Irsjad Djuwaeli holds national accreditation and adheres to high-quality standards, employing 391 professionals across medical and non-medical fields.

The inauguration was attended by notable figures, including former Banten Governor Wahidin Halim (2017-2022), Pandeglang Regent Rd Devi Setiani, Serang Regent Rt Rahmatu Zakiyah, and PBMA Chairman KH Embay Mulya Syaif.

Meanwhile, over a thousand residents from Labuan District and surrounding areas attended and participated in free health screenings organized as part of the hospital’s opening ceremony.

RSUD Muhammad Irsjad Djuwaeli

RSUD Muhammad Irsjad Djuwaeli is a regional public hospital in Indonesia, named after a local medical figure or leader, though specific historical details about its namesake are limited. It serves as a key healthcare facility in its region, providing essential medical services to the community. The hospital reflects Indonesia’s efforts to improve public health infrastructure at the regional level.

Mathla’ul Anwar

Mathla’ul Anwar is an Islamic educational and cultural organization in Indonesia, founded in 1916 by KH Mas Abdurrahman and other scholars in Menes, Banten. It focuses on religious education, social welfare, and community development, playing a significant role in spreading moderate Islamic teachings. Historically, it emerged during the colonial period as part of the broader movement to strengthen Muslim identity and education in Indonesia.

Mathla’ul Anwar University

Mathla’ul Anwar University is an Islamic higher education institution in Indonesia, founded in 1986 by the Muslim organization Persatuan Ummat Islam (PUI). Located in Banten, the university focuses on integrating religious and general sciences, aiming to produce graduates with both academic and moral excellence. It plays a significant role in promoting Islamic values while contributing to national education.

Central MUI

Central MUI (Majelis Ulama Indonesia) is the central office of Indonesia’s top Islamic clerical body, established in 1975 to guide Muslims on religious, social, and political matters. Located in Jakarta, it plays a key role in issuing fatwas (religious rulings), promoting moderate Islam, and advising the government on Sharia-compliant policies. The institution reflects Indonesia’s efforts to balance Islamic principles with national unity and modernization.

Banten Province

Banten Province, located on the western tip of Java, Indonesia, was once a powerful Islamic sultanate in the 16th century and a major trading hub. Today, it is known for its rich history, including the Old Banten archaeological site, and natural attractions like Ujung Kulon National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The province was officially separated from West Java in 2000, becoming Indonesia’s youngest province at the time.

Labuan District

The Labuan District is a federal territory of Malaysia, located on a small island off the coast of Borneo. Historically, it was a British colonial outpost in the 19th century and served as a major coal-refueling station for ships. Today, it is known for its duty-free status, WWII memorials (such as the Labuan War Cemetery), and vibrant marine tourism.

Pandeglang Regency

Pandeglang Regency is a region in Banten Province, Indonesia, known for its diverse landscapes, including beaches, mountains, and Ujung Kulon National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the last refuge of the endangered Javan rhinoceros. Historically, it was part of the Banten Sultanate, a powerful Islamic kingdom in the 16th–18th centuries, and retains cultural significance with traditional Sundanese and Bantenese influences. Today, it attracts tourists for its natural beauty, wildlife, and historical heritage.

BPJS Health

BPJS Health (Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Sosial Kesehatan) is Indonesia’s national health insurance program, established in 2014 under the Social Security Organizing Agency (BPJS) to provide universal healthcare coverage. It replaced the previous system (Jamkesmas) and aims to ensure all Indonesian citizens and legal residents have access to affordable medical services. The program reflects Indonesia’s commitment to achieving universal healthcare under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).