Enviro News Asia, Atlanta — More than 1,000 Indonesian Muslims from across the United States gathered in Atlanta, Georgia, from 23 to 26 December 2025 to attend the 25th Congress of the Indonesian Muslim Society in America (IMSA). Participants traveled from various cities, including New York, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Houston, Arizona, Illinois, Tennessee, and Atlanta.
The opening session featured remarks from Indonesia’s Minister of Manpower and former IMSA President, Professor Yassierli, IMSA President Aria Novianto, Chair of the IMSA Board of Trustees Eko Prasetiawan, and Indonesian Ambassador to the United States, Indroyono Soesilo.
In his address, Ambassador Indroyono emphasized that IMSA reflects the harmonious, moderate, and tolerant character of Indonesian Muslims living in the United States, a multicultural and multiethnic society. He highlighted the strategic role of the Indonesian diaspora and young generation in strengthening Indonesia–U.S. relations through people-to-people engagement.
He noted that more than 8,400 Indonesian students are currently studying in the United States, describing them as valuable assets for future bilateral cooperation, particularly in education, research, technology, and economic collaboration.
The Ambassador also commended IMSA for evolving beyond a community organization into a platform for learning, dialogue, and social contribution, integrating religious reflection with civic responsibility. IMSA’s constructive engagement with both Muslim and non-Muslim communities was recognized as contributing positively to social cohesion in the United States.
The congress also featured opening remarks from Zabidi Yusoff, President of the Malaysian Islamic Study Group, who underscored the importance of leadership continuity and faith-based organizations in strengthening social harmony. The event included the presentation of the IMSA Awards 2025 to community leaders and the symbolic donation of 80 copies of the Qur’an by the Indonesian Ambassador to support community education initiatives.
During the congress, Ambassador Indroyono opened a student panel discussion titled “Global Minds and National Future: Role of Indonesian Students and Diaspora in the US,” stressing the need for Indonesian youth to understand global dynamics and develop cross-cultural competencies.
The event was supported by representatives from the Indonesian Embassy in Washington, D.C., and the Consulates General in Houston and Los Angeles, reflecting the Indonesian government’s commitment to supporting diaspora activities. Integrated consular services were also provided during the congress to facilitate public services for Indonesian citizens in the United States.
The 25th IMSA Congress reaffirmed the role of Indonesian Muslim diaspora as an important bridge in Indonesia–U.S. relations, with young generations actively promoting Islamic values, professionalism, and social responsibility on the global stage. (*)
