MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – President of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir offered valuable insights on navigating public spaces and the challenges of the digital age.
In a recent address at the gathering of Shawwal 1445 Hijri at the Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD) on Wednesday (April 17), Haedar emphasized that public spaces, which significantly impact the lives of many, demand a multidimensional perspective that goes beyond simplistic dichotomies of right and wrong. He stressed the importance of considering factors such as good and bad, appropriate and inappropriate, ethics, and norms when engaging in public interactions. This nuanced approach, according to Haedar, extends to all forms of competition. He cautioned against the notion that victory justifies any means, emphasizing the need for ethical conduct even in the pursuit of success.
Haedar underscored the significance of incorporating the heart into every interaction and encounter, particularly in public spaces. He specifically addressed Muslims, reminding them of their religious teachings that provide guidance on moral boundaries and ethical conduct.
Citing a Microsoft study that revealed low digital civility among Indonesian internet users compared to other ASEAN countries, Haedar expressed concern about the erosion of morals and core values in society. He noted that this decline extends beyond digital civility, as evidenced by Indonesia’s high corruption rates.
Haedar attributed this decline to a potential relaxation of values, leading to a permissive and anything-goes mentality. He stressed the collective responsibility to address this issue, particularly among the younger generation.
Haedar acknowledged the challenges posed by the digital age, particularly the decline in trust in religion and spiritual institutions among young Indonesians. He attributed this to the confusion caused by the currents of secularization and liberalization prevalent in the digital landscape. The overwhelming influx of information in the digital era further complicates the task of parents in instilling values in their children. Haedar suggested moving beyond a purely normative approach, advocating for the elaboration of values into a living form that undergoes a process of transformation. This, he believes, will make it easier for individuals to internalize and adopt these values as part of their daily habits.
Haedar emphasized that transferring values to the next generation is not solely the responsibility of parents but also of educational institutions. He highlighted Muhammadiyah’s commitment to education and its role in shaping the ethical compass of future generations.
In conclusion, Haedar Nashir’s insights provide a valuable framework for navigating public spaces and the challenges of the digital age. His emphasis on ethical considerations, the importance of the heart, and the shared responsibility for value transfer offers timely guidance for individuals, families, and institutions in fostering a more just, equitable, and harmonious society.
