MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, RIAU — Rector of Universitas Muhammadiyah Riau (Umri) Saidul Amin urged the Muhammadiyah Department for Special Da’wa Development (LDK) to shift its focus towards communities in dire need, specifically highlighting drug addicts and the LGBT community.
His call came during the opening ceremony of the LDK’s Regional I training of trainers (ToT) held at Ahmad Dahlan Rectorate Building of Umri on Friday, January 19.
Highlighting the urgency of LDK addressing current critical issues, Amin zeroed in on drug addiction. Citing the staggering figure of 7 million drug addicts nationwide and the alarmingly high 80% drug-related cases in Riau prisons, he questioned why, after over a century, the Muhammadiyah lacked a dedicated rehabilitation center. He challenged the LDK to see such challenges as fertile ground for their da’wah efforts.
Setting ambitious goals, Amin proposed that by 2025, each Muhammadiyah Regional Board (PWM) establish a drug recovery center and each Local Board (PDM) follow suit with a rehabilitation facility. This, he believes, would translate into tangible action against a pressing social issue.
Beyond drug addiction, Amin also stressed the LDK’s crucial role in addressing the LGBT community. Moving beyond mere pronouncements, he advocated for “Sharia-based psychological approaches,” emphasizing the need for a more nuanced and understanding approach.
To that end, Amin proposed the creation of specialized LGBT counseling centers within the Muhammadiyah. He likened the issue to a “gradually eroding cancer” in the nation’s soul, demanding immediate and effective intervention with both care and compassion.
Concluding on a hopeful note, Amin expressed his wish for the ToT to yield the best possible format for a thriving LDK, recognized for its effectiveness. He expressed optimism that the LDK’s concrete steps, particularly in tackling drug addiction and LGBT issues, would yield positive, tangible results for vulnerable communities in Indonesia.
