Hilman Latief, General Treasurer of Muhammadiyah, underscored the importance of anchoring the organization’s humanitarian efforts in its core principles, including those outlined in the results of the Muhammadiyah Congress (Muktamar Muhammadiyah).
Hilman specifically highlighted four key pillars of Muhammadiyah universal humanitarian action framework, as identified in the the results of the 48th Muhammadiyah Congress in 2022. These pillars focus on building a global order rooted in peace and justice, tackling the effects of climate change, bridging the gap between nations, and combating the rise of xenophobia.
Hilman further emphasized the deep wellspring of Islamic values that informs Muhammadiyah’s humanitarian approach. He contrasted this perspective with secular views, underlining the unique contribution of Islamic concepts like “nafs” in understanding the inherent dignity of every human being.
Hilman elucidated how Muhammadiyah’s guiding principles are intrinsically linked to the teachings of the Quran. Concepts like justice, peace, and prosperity find resonance within Islamic teachings.
While acknowledging the significance of the Ma’un theology in guiding humanitarian action, Hilman argued for its limitations in the face of contemporary challenges. He proposed supplementing it with the robust theological framework offered by Surah Al-Balad. He pointed to verses 11 to 20 of Surah Al-Balad as providing guidance for navigating challenging humanitarian crises.
“While these verses may not directly address humanism or humanitarianism, interpretations consider “aqabah” (the path) outlined as arduous and difficult to overcome” said Hilman at the Muhammadiyah Ramadan Preaching Series at the Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) on Wednesday (March 20).
The surah underscores challenging tasks, such as liberating slaves, providing food assistance during famines, caring for orphans, and alleviating extreme poverty.
Successfully navigating these challenges, as outlined in Surah Al Balad, aligns with achieving the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Thus, for the universal humanitarian movement, Hilman emphasized the need to go beyond cultural preaching to address structural and natural complexities.
