MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, SURAKARTA – Muhammadiyah highlights the critical importance of reading in Islamic teachings. Despite the explicit command of the Quran to “read” (Al-Alaq verse 1), Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Dadang Kahmad viewed that many Muslims overlook or neglect this essential practice.
Since its establishment, Muhammadiyah has been dedicated to fostering a culture of literacy. Muhammadiyah publication, Suara Muhammadiyah, has been in circulation since 1915, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to promoting reading.
“It is impossible for people to become modern, intelligent, and advanced without reading,” said Dadang in the opening of the Muhammadiyah Press and Literacy Festival 2024 at Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS), on Saturday, August 24.
Dadang argued that the neglect of reading has hindered the progress of the Muslim world. Nations with strong reading cultures have achieved significant advancements, while Muslim-majority countries, despite the Quranic mandate, have often lagged behind.
Drawing on his experience as a Sociology of Religion professor, Dadang noted a decline in reading habits among today’s students compared to previous generations. This observation emphasizes the urgent need to revitalize reading culture within Muslims.
