MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, ABU DHABI – The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity announced its 2024 honorees, recognizing individuals and organizations dedicated to tackling societal challenges and promoting peace. Indonesian organizations Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah, renowned cardiac surgeon Sir Magdi Yacoub, and Chilean grassroots leader Sister Nelly Leon Correa will be honored at a ceremony on February 5th in Abu Dhabi.
Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama, with over 190 million members, have made immense contributions through education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation projects, impacting countless lives in Indonesia and globally.
One of the juries, Irina Bokova, mentioned that the juries were independent and had open-minded discussions to determine the award honorees.
“One of the approaches to decide the honorees was that, we, the juries of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity 2024, really recognize individuals and organizations which really change people’s lives. We came to Indonesia and saw these two largest organizations, Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah, having been established for more than a hundred years. They not only focus on moderation but also social engagement through their devotion to education, health, and more. What they do touches the lives of millions of people,” said Irina Bokova in the Zayed Award Human Fraternity press conference on Friday, February 2.
Mohamed Abdelsalam, the Secretary-General of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity Judge, stated, “In the leadup to International Day of Human Fraternity, we are recognizing three individuals who genuinely embody the principles of the Document. The judging committee of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity is honored to reveal this year’s awardees, who have passionately advocated for the values of human fraternity, serving as inspirations within their communities. Each honoree has embraced the noble vision for a more harmonious world, and we aim to use this acknowledgment to boost initiatives in their respective domains.”
Besides, the Chairman of Muhammadiyah for International Relations and Cooperation Syafiq Mughni expressed, “We, Muhammadiyah, are delighted and honored to receive this award.”
Syafiq mentioned that this award will strongly impact Muhammadiyah works. This organization works based on Islamic teaching and strives to promote Islam as rahmatan lil ‘alamin (a mercy to the whole world). Indeed, the award is a recognition of Muhammadiyah roles in humanity.
“Muhammadiyah believes human being as one. We have to respect other people. This belief motivates Muhammadiyah to work much harder in local, national, and global affairs,” said Syafiq.
Syafiq also encouraged all organizations, particularly religious and secular organizations, and individuals to do more for humanity because we are one.
“We are created equal by God. It is important to elevate human dignity and respect other people. This is very noble deed to do. Our future faces many challenges, and it is our duties to help people. I think it is a strong message from this award that we have to work hand in hand,” said Syafiq.
In addition, Syafiq believed that networking is essential to elevate human dignity. This award may encourage interfaith collaboration which contributes to create peaceful world. Syafiq hoped Muhammadiyah humanitarian and peace actions will always bring positive impacts in grassroots and global affairs.
