MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, TUNISIA – Muhammadiyah Special Branch Board (PCIM) of Tunisia officially kicked off its decade anniversary celebrations on Sunday (12/4) with a community running event known as “Run MU,” highlighting the importance of health, unity, and collaboration among Indonesians abroad.
Organizers held the event in partnership with Diasporun Tunisia and drew participation from a wide range of Indonesian student groups. These included Perhimpunan Pelajar Indonesia (PPI) Tunisia and representatives from Special Branch Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PCINU) Tunisia. Together, they created an atmosphere that blended athletic enthusiasm with a strong sense of community.
Along the route, organizers provided refreshment stations stocked with drinks and light snacks to help participants maintain their stamina. As a result, the run unfolded smoothly, with participants displaying high energy and a spirit of camaraderie throughout the course.
A symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony at the finish line marked a key moment in the event, officially launching the series of activities commemorating the organization’s 10th anniversary. Zuhairi Misrawi, Indonesia’s ambassador to Tunisia, led the ceremony alongside the chairman of PCIM Tunisia and the head of the anniversary committee, as participants looked on.
Building Community through Health and Collaboration
Akmal Rachman, chairman of the anniversary committee, stressed the importance of maintaining physical health among organizational members. However, he noted that Run MU serves a broader purpose. Beyond exercise, the event fosters solidarity and strengthens bonds within the Indonesian diaspora community.
Meanwhile, Naufal Sholahudin, chairman of PCIM Tunisia, expressed gratitude for the event’s smooth and lively execution. He added that the anniversary program will extend beyond sports. Upcoming activities will include competitions and webinars designed to deepen engagement and broaden participation.
“On April 19 and 25, we will host programs involving Indonesian diaspora members in Tunisia as well as national figures,” he said. Among the expected speakers is Abdul Mu’ti, Indonesia’s minister of primary and secondary education.
Ambassador Zuhairi praised the initiative, describing it as a positive movement among Indonesian students abroad. Moreover, he emphasized the importance of balancing physical health with intellectual development, invoking the principle al-‘aqlu salim fi al-jismi salim—a sound mind in a healthy body.
Strengthening Diaspora Engagement for the Future
In addition, Zuhairi highlighted the complementary roles of Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama, describing them as two pillars that together strengthen Indonesia’s social fabric. He likened the organizations to “two wings” that enable the nation to rise higher.
The event reflects PCIM Tunisia’s commitment to developing well-rounded cadres—individuals who excel intellectually while remaining physically resilient and socially engaged. Such values, organizers said, are essential for fostering a competitive and principled diaspora generation.
Run MU concluded on a festive note, filled with joy and a strong sense of togetherness. Consequently, the positive energy generated during the event set a promising tone for the broader anniversary celebrations.
In closing, PCIM Tunisia expressed appreciation to all supporting parties, including the Central Board of Muhammadiyah, the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Tunis, PCINU Tunisia, PPI Tunisia, and Diasporun Tunisia. Organizers also pledged to deliver future programs that are more impactful, engaging, and far-reaching.
Ultimately, the decade anniversary of PCIM Tunisia is expected to serve as a starting point for innovative, collaborative, and sustainable initiatives that benefit both the community and the nation.
