MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – The Central Board of Muhammadiyah welcomed a delegation from the Communion of Churches in Indonesia (PGI) at its headquarters, Jakarta on Wednesday, July 9. The meeting highlighted a shared commitment to addressing key issues such as interfaith harmony, Islamophobia, women’s empowerment, social justice, and inclusive education.
The PGI delegation was received by Muhammadiyah Chairperson of International Relations and Cooperation Syafiq A. Mughni, along with several council members. Syafiq explained that the discussion touched on common challenges faced by religious communities globally, including the growing disinterest among younger generations in religion and spirituality.
“At the same time, tensions between religious groups still occur in some regions, including Islamophobia and restrictions on building places of worship,” said Syafiq.
Syafiq noted that Islamophobia is not only an issue exclusive to Muslims but also reflects broader intolerance, which Christian communities experience as well. Syafiq called for cooperation to address racism and other forms of discrimination.
“We need to work together and find productive ways to respond to these issues collectively,” added Syafiq.
Muhammadiyah believes religious institutions should take active roles in building mutual understanding. According to Syafiq, inclusive education is a powerful tool to bring people of different faiths together. He highlighted Muhammadiyah’s own experience that several of its universities now have a majority of non-Muslim students, a positive sign in a religiously diverse society.
Meanwhile, Rev. Andar Parlindungan Pasaribu, Secretary General of the United Evangelical Mission (UEM), agreed on the importance of interfaith collaboration. He expressed concern that some educational institutions, instead of fostering understanding, have been misused to promote narrow and divisive theological views, creating tension between religious groups.
Andar praised Muhammadiyah role in promoting inclusive education and said it can serve as a model for others.
Muhammadiyah has shown how inclusive education can uplift communities and strengthen peaceful coexistence. It’s a great example of how education can be used for the good of all.
