Roger Danuarta: From Observing Friends to Making His Own Choice
Before a recording of his declaration of faith circulated, Roger Danuarta had spent time observing Muslim friends. Their conduct at work and in ordinary life interested him, as did the peace he associated with prayer. In his later account, the wish to become Muslim had existed well before the cameras.
He came from a non-Muslim family, so the change also involved conversations at home. He wanted the blessing of those who had raised him and did not receive it immediately. His mother asked about his seriousness and whether he had begun learning to read the Quran. He recalled those questions as part of explaining his choice.
In the account published late in 2018, he described her eventual support after she recognised his commitment. Her interest in his learning became a treasured memory. Respect for family was not separate from the decision; it belonged to the patient work surrounding it.
On 29 October 2018, his declaration was recorded in the Bekasi area under Insan Mokoginta’s guidance. A leader of the new-Muslim centre explained that Roger was then ready for public disclosure and that the declaration was repeated for documentation. The public scene was therefore a stage in an earlier personal journey.
Learning continued after the announcement. In Suara’s September 2019 joint interview with Roger and his wife, Cut Meyriska, she described his continuing study and discussions with teachers. He was asking about the substance of the faith, while she also continued learning. Their different experiences did not prevent a shared commitment to study.
An inquiry can begin with something ordinary: a friend’s work, behaviour or prayer. Attention then needs knowledge, a decision and support. What do people encounter in our company before they hear our explanations, and does our support continue after they make a choice?
Sources
- Suara — Interview: Roger Danuarta and Cut Meyriska, 22 September 2019
- Hanif Hawari / detikHot — Roger Danuarta Mualaf di Bekasi, 30 October 2018
- Veynindia Esaloni Pardede / detikHot — Roger remembers his mother's support, 31 December 2018
- Maliah Surip / Gempak — Roger Danuarta on his decision, 23 April 2019