MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, PONTIANAK – Muhammadiyah, through the Muhammadiyah Council for Social Welfare (MPKS), reaffirms its commitment as an Islamic movement serving vulnerable and marginalized groups of people.
The Chairperson of the MPKS Mariman Darto mentioned that the council’s roles extend beyond managing orphanages.
“We often limit our understanding of MPKS to orphanages, but Muhammadiyah social outreach is much broader. We care for poor patients who cannot afford transportation or accommodation for medical treatment. We also empower women, who were sex workers, through our safe houses. Additionally, we assist victims of bullying, domestic violence, and human trafficking,” said Mariman in his visit to the MPKS of the Muhammadiyah Provincial Board of Kalimantan Barat and the ‘Aisyiyah Provincial Board of Kalimantan Barat on Thursday, October 8.
The MPKS initiatives also encompass individuals with disabilities, who are supported by the Muhammadiyah Disability Association (Hidimu), as well as the elderly, who are cared for through Muhammadiyah senior care programs and Aisyiyah Day Care centers.
“If a Muhammadiyah branch does not have an MPKS, it contradicts the fundamental spirit of Muhammadiyah as a movement that aids those in need,” Mariman emphasized.
The meeting also discussed the priority programs outlined in the MPKS National Meeting 2023, including piloting flagship initiatives such as the Sakinah House, which can be developed in various regions, the Muhammadiyah Senior Center, patient shelter services provided by Muhammadiyah, certification for Muhammadiyah Social Human Resources, accreditation for AUMSOS, food assistance for YAPI, support for productive economic empowerment, and partnerships with PT Pos, LogMart, and others.
“The absence of MPKS in district-level organizations hinders the development of social welfare institutions in the regions,” said Mariman.
He encouraged greater collaboration between the MPKS and other Muhammadiyah bodies to address these challenges and expand the organization’s social welfare initiatives.
