Learning Never Ages: Mr. Sasakawa Inspires Genggong's Santri with a Message of Lifelong Growth

TIMESINDONESIA, PROBOLINGGO – Mr. Sasakawa was warmly welcomed by KH. Moh. Mutawakkil Alallah, the respected leader of the pesantren and Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) of East Java. But this was not just a ceremonial visit. It was a moment of heartfelt inspiration, a living message of hope, health, and purpose.

At 90 years old, Mr. Sasakawa stood tall and composed, smiling as he faced hundreds of young female santri seated neatly in rows. He began by asking a simple but intriguing question:
“Do you know how old I am?”

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The room fell silent. Some guessed 70, others 80. None dared to say 90.

“I am over 90 years old,” he revealed with a warm smile. Then came the wisdom that would echo in the hearts of the santri:
“If you want to live long and stay happy, never stop learning. Stay curious, keep learning—that is the key.”

This simple but powerful statement resonated deeply with the students, whose daily lives are rooted in the tradition of seeking knowledge. In Mr. Sasakawa, they saw a living example of the value of lifelong learning—someone who, even in his nineties, continues to serve humanity with energy and compassion.

Rather than delivering a one-way speech, Mr. Sasakawa invited a warm and spontaneous dialogue. His light-hearted questions and cheerful demeanor brought smiles and laughter, creating a joyful and uplifting atmosphere.

Santri were not just listeners—they became active participants in a session filled with wisdom, humor, and renewed motivation. The event was more than a meeting; it was a spark of connection across generations, cultures, and experiences.

KH. Mutawakkil Alallah also expressed his admiration, saying, “Mr. Sasakawa is a living inspiration. He shows us how to remain active, useful, and joyful even in old age. He never stops working for humanity.”

A Journey through the Heart of Genggong

Following the dialogue, Mr. Sasakawa and his entourage toured the pesantren. They observed students engaged in their daily activities, from reciting the Qur’an to discussing lessons and enjoying their breaks. The harmony and discipline of the pesantren left a strong impression on the visitors.

The journey concluded at Universitas Hafsawaty (Unhasa) Genggong, a higher education institution rooted in pesantren values. Here, Mr. Sasakawa held a vibrant discussion with university students and lecturers.

The conversation centered around the role of youth in shaping a healthy, peaceful, and civilized future. Students shared ideas with confidence and passion, and Mr. Sasakawa responded with thoughtful encouragement:
“The future of your nation is in your hands. Never stop learning, because the world is always changing.”

The visit ended with group photos, heartfelt smiles, and the exchange of traditional souvenirs. But the most valuable takeaway wasn’t tangible—it was the reaffirmation of a powerful truth: that learning is the road to health, happiness, and service to others.

One santri said with shining eyes, “Now I truly believe that learning is not a burden. It’s the key to my future, for my family and for my country.”

Genggong: A Beacon of Inspiration

Pesantren Zainul Hasan Genggong once again proved itself to be more than an Islamic boarding school—it is a living bridge between tradition and progress, between local wisdom and global vision, between knowledge and character.

Mr. Sasakawa’s visit was not just a diplomatic gesture. It was the world’s recognition of the noble values that live within pesantren life: sincerity in learning, patience in the process, and devotion in serving others.

That day, the hall of Genggong was not only filled with laughter—it was filled with hope. A reminder that no matter who you are, where you come from, or how old you are. You can still grow, be happy, and inspire others. As long as you never stop learning. (*)

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