MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – The United States Ambassador to Indonesia, Kamala Shirin Lakhdir, expressed her admiration for Muhammadiyah during her first official visit to the organization’s headquarters in Jakarta on Tuesday, December 17.
Kamala was impressed by Muhammadiyah services in various fields, such as education, healthcare, social services, and religion.
The Ambassador highlighted the longstanding cooperation between the US and Muhammadiyah in various sectors.
“We have been working together for decades, particularly in higher education, given Muhammadiyah extensive network of schools and universities, and in healthcare through their numerous hospitals and clinics,” said Kamala.
Specifically, Kamala mentioned the cooperation between the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and Muhammadiyah in addressing tuberculosis as a specific example. She also mentioned the successful collaboration with Aisyiyah, Muhammadiyah’s women’s organization, during the COVID-19 pandemic, where Muhammadiyah vast network of hospitals and other institutions played a crucial role in vaccine distribution.
“Through this visit, we are exploring new areas where we can expand our cooperation,” she added.
The meeting also touched on interfaith dialogue, global political and security issues, and their impact on both Indonesia and the United States.
“I appreciate the insights shared by the President of Muhammadiyah and thank you for your time,” said Kamala to the President of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir.
Kamala hoped that this meeting would lead to even broader and deeper cooperation between the United States and Muhammadiyah.
