MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, BANTEN – The peanut harvest celebration in Baduy, Banten, on June 15, brought together a strong sense of community and purpose. Spanning 2,500 square meters, the event highlighted the impact of an economic empowerment initiative for Muslim converts, launched by the Muhammadiyah Department of Community Da’wa in collaboration with the Muhammadiyah Department of Charity Management (Lazismu).
Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Department of Community Da’wa, Muchamad Arifin, mentioned that the harvest celebration indicated the success of da’wa bil hal, a da’wa focusing on both teaching Islamic values and answering the community needs.
“This is not just about harvesting peanuts. It’s a harvest of blessings. It is a result of unity, hard work, and the growing faith of Muslim converts in this region,” said Arifin.
The farming program focuses on supporting Muslim converts from the Baduy tribe that many of them have faced economic challenges. From planting to harvest, they receive full guidance and support. Muhammadiyah preachers not only deliver preaching but also ensure that their presence makes a real difference in the daily lives of the people they serve.
The joy on the farmers’ faces reflected more than just the success of the harvest. For them, it symbolized a fresh start and the hope of a better future as active, empowered members of the Muslim community.
“Preaching alone is not enough. We want our message to bring real change in education, in the economy, and in people’s lives,” said Arifin.
This harvest is the beginning. Muhammadiyah plans to develop this as a model of sustainable agriculture in the Baduy area, especially among converts. The movement also hopes to expand the program to other remote and underserved communities across Indonesia.
“We believe that when people are empowered, their spiritual and social resilience will grow. This is the kind of preaching Muhammadiyah that is practical, down-to-earth, and full of hope for the future,” express Arifin.