MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA — Haedar Nashir, President of Muhammadiyah, expressed concern over the recent rejection of the concept of moderation by some groups. They argue that the term is not rooted in authentic Islamic tradition and is instead influenced by Western views. They prefer the term wasathiyah, which they believe is more accurate.
While those who reject moderation may be a small minority, their vocal opposition has created the impression that their views represent the mainstream within Muhammadiyah. This highlights the challenges of promoting moderate Islam in Indonesia, where such efforts are often met with strong resistance from a small but vocal minority.
In a speech delivered at the Muhammadiyah Ramadan Preaching Series at the Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta on Thursday (March 14), Haedar emphasized that the concepts of moderation and wasathiyah are essentially synonymous. He stressed that there is no need to pit the two terms against each other, as the difference between them is merely one of language, not substance. Both terms refer to the middle path, avoiding extremism in both thought and action.
Haedar also highlighted the fact that moderation has been a core principle of Indonesian society since its founding. The process of integrating diverse ethnic groups into a single nation involved a process of interfaith dialogue and moderation. Local cultures and religions underwent a process of peaceful transition and integration. As a nation, Indonesia’s commitment to moderation is evident in its religious tolerance, with Islam being widely accepted due to its moderate teachings.
As a major Islamic organization in Indonesia, Muhammadiyah is called upon to prioritize moderation in its efforts to regain the trust of its grassroots members. Haedar stressed the importance of Muhammadiyah members remaining vigilant and avoiding being drawn into extremist currents that threaten stability. He urged them to remain steadfast in their commitment to wasathiyah without compromising the principles that underpin their organization.
“Indonesia is a nation that upholds moderation,” said Haedar, who is also a professor at the Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta. “The proof of this is in the religious sphere, where Islam is fully accepted in Indonesia because of its moderate teachings. If Muhammadiyah wants to regain the trust of its grassroots members, it must also prioritize moderation.”
