MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – Muhammadiyah called for a greater focus on social justice in the country. During its year-end reflection seminar conducted in Yogyakarta on Monday, December 23, Muhammadiyah Chairperson Busro Muqoddas highlighted growing inequalities and urged the government to address pressing issues such as corruption, education, and democratic governance.
Busyro emphasized Muhammadiyah commitment to promoting prosperity for all. He highlighted the efforts of Muhammadiyah in advocating for communities marginalized by structural and cultural oppression.
“Muhammadiyah progresses by adopting a thoughtful academic approach. This is the essence of Progressive Islam,” Busyro said in the seminar on ‘Social Justice Imbalance’, hosted by the Muhammadiyah Council for Law and Rights, the Muhammadiyah Department of Politics and Public Policy, and the Muhammadiyah Department of Legal Aid and Public Advocacy.
Busyro raised concerns about government policies affecting education and governance. He criticized the State Universities with Legal Entity (PTN BH) policy for prioritizing student enrollment numbers, which he said puts private universities at a disadvantage.
He urged the government to return to the core mission of universities to nurture critical and constructive thinking.
Busyro also warned of the risks of corruption in the 2024 National Strategic Projects (PSN), noting how corruption has grown as the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) faces limitations on its authority. He called on President Prabowo Subianto to restore the independence of the KPK to fulfill his campaign promise to combat corruption.
Besides, Busyro addressed the impact of the contract-based government (PPPK) teacher recruitment program, which has caused many private school teachers to transfer to public schools, affecting not only Muhammadiyah but other private institutions like Nahdlatul Ulama and Catholic organizations.
Additionally, Busyro proposed revising the laws on political parties, elections, and regional elections, which he believes have harmed the democratic process.
“Social issues such as the rise of online gambling also need serious attention, as they harm our youth and the future of the nation,” he added.
Meanwhile, David Effendy, Secretary of the Muhammadiyah Department of Politics and Public Policy and Chair of the seminar committee, explained that the event was part of Muhammadiyah ongoing mission to address inequality and promote prosperity. He pointed to alarming data showing that the wealth of Indonesia’s 50 richest individuals equals that of 150 million citizens.
“The spirit of Al-Ma’un in Muhammadiyah must be preserved and upheld,” David said.
