Indonesian comedian Aming has sent waves of surprise and admiration across social media platforms following the revelation of his new spiritual journey, marked by a striking visual transformation. On Monday, February 13, 2023, Aming, known for his flamboyant and often gender-bending public persona, shared a series of photographs on his verified Instagram account, @amingisback. The images depicted him clad in traditional white baju koko (a loose-fitting Muslim shirt) and a white peci (a cap worn by Muslim men), symbols deeply associated with Islamic piety and practice. This unexpected shift in appearance has led many to believe Aming is embarking on a path of religious introspection and personal reform, a concept often referred to as "hijrah" in Islamic tradition, meaning migration or moving from a state of sin or ignorance towards a more righteous path.<\/p>\n
The initial post featured two distinct photographs. In the first, Aming is seen sitting with a serious and contemplative expression, a stark contrast to his typically energetic and comedic stage presence. The second image shows him posing beneath a framed photograph of a prominent Islamic scholar, with an inscription identifying it as "Maqom Kramat Situs Sejarah Tanjung Priok," suggesting a visit to the revered tomb of Mbah Priok in North Jakarta. This particular location is a significant historical and spiritual site for many Muslims in the region, often a destination for pilgrimage and prayer.<\/p>\n
The reactions from fellow celebrities and the wider online community were overwhelmingly positive and supportive. Stand-up comedian Tretan Muslim commented with an enthusiastic "Subhanallah ikhwan" (Praise be to God, my brother), to which Aming responded with a poignant, "Saya lelah jadi ukhti" (I am tired of being ‘ukhti’ \u2013 a term referring to a female Muslim). This playful yet revealing remark offers a glimpse into Aming’s personal feelings and the perceived shift in his identity and public presentation.<\/p>\n
Baing Wong joined the chorus of praise, noting, "Nah ganteng neh" (Now that’s handsome), accompanied by a fire emoji, indicating his admiration for Aming’s refined and dignified look. The sentiment of Aming appearing more handsome in his new attire was echoed by numerous other users.<\/p>\n
Prominent figures from various walks of life expressed their well wishes and blessings. Alvin Adam offered a prayer, "Bismillah… Amin ya Robbal Alamin" (In the name of God… Amen, Lord of the worlds). Umi Pipik, a well-known religious figure, remarked, "Minal hadirin miing kalau lagi ziarah" (Among those present, Miing when he is on a pilgrimage), acknowledging the spiritual context of his visit. Indy Barends, a long-time friend and colleague, sent her prayers, "Semoga lancar amiiiiing amiiin" (May it go smoothly, Amen, Amen). Actor Chicco Jerikho simply stated, "GAGAH" (Dashing\/Handsome). Elvy Sukaesih, a legendary Indonesian dangdut singer, offered a heartfelt prayer: "MasyaaAllah.. Aamiin yaa Robb. Semoga selalu dalam syafaatnya Rasulullah SAW dan keridhoan Allah SWT" (What God has willed. Amen, O Lord. May you always be under the intercession of the Prophet Muhammad SAW and the pleasure of Allah SWT).<\/p>\n
Beyond celebrity endorsements, the general public also flooded Aming’s comment section with messages of support. Many netizens expressed their happiness and encouraged his spiritual journey. Comments like "Aamiin… Sekarang tambah ganteng loh om" (Amen… You’re even more handsome now, uncle) and "Aamiin Ya Allah. Semangat Aming semoga hidayah Allah tidak pernah putus dan kebahagiaan yang tidak terhingga" (Amen, O Allah. Spirit, Aming, may Allah’s guidance never cease and may you have endless happiness) reflect the widespread positive reception. Another user commented, "Alhamdullillah, ikut senang walau bukan siapa-siapanya. Semoga istiqomah bang Aming" (Praise be to God, I am happy even though I am nobody. May you remain steadfast, brother Aming). "Istiqomah" is a crucial Islamic concept signifying perseverance and steadfastness in one’s faith and good deeds.<\/p>\n
The following day, Tuesday, February 14, 2023, Aming continued to engage with his followers, sharing another photograph where he was again seen wearing a peci. In this post, he posed a question to his audience, "Saya gak tahu namanya, peci bukan? atau topi haji gitu? ada yang tahu? Mending pake kacamata apa ngga ya?" (I don’t know the name, is it a peci? Or a Hajj hat? Does anyone know? Would it be better to wear glasses or not?). This demonstrates a continued sense of exploration and an open attitude towards his evolving style and identity.<\/p>\n