MUHAMMADIYAH. OR. ID, SURAKARTA – As ‘Aisyiyah embarks on its second century, its da’wa efforts should undergo a significant transformation. Salmah Orbayinah, President of ‘Aisyiyah, emphasizes the need to move beyond traditional da’wa methods and instead embrace an approach that fosters unity, collaboration, and communication.
“The very essence of Aisyiyah’s work lies in the power of da’wa. This is true for all levels of leadership within our organization. Unity and solidarity will be the driving force that propels us forward,” declared Salmah at the 107th Anniversary Celebration of ‘Aisyiyah conducted on Sunday (May 19) at the hall of Universitas ‘Aisyiyah Surakarta.
Salmah further underscored Aisyiyah’s unwavering commitment to spreading a message of compassion. The organization strives to foster noble character, promote righteous deeds, and engage in activities that benefit society as a whole, without any discrimination. Aisyiyah’s presence, she asserted, is a true embodiment of the Quranic concept of spreading blessings to all (rahmatan lil ‘alamin).
“Aisyiyah’s da’wa goes beyond mere preaching,” Salmah explained. “Through its enlightening approach, the organization also advocates and pioneers movements for peaceful, healthy, clean, and noble living. This vision extends to the broader community, ensuring that our lives collectively reflect the exemplary conduct and noble civilization that embody the actualization of Khaira Ummah (the best community).”
In the realm of national politics, Aisyiyah disseminates the lofty values of enlightenment by voicing messages and cultivating a nationalistic attitude rooted in core principles. These principles include truth, goodness, moderation, peace, tolerance, honesty, democracy, and noble character. Ultimately, Aisyiyah aspires to contribute to a united, sovereign, dignified, just, prosperous, and progressive Indonesia.
“Aisyiyah’s da’wa goes far beyond words,” Salmah said. “It nurtures the spirit and endeavor of righteous deeds, leading to the advancement of the nation and its people in every corner of the country, reaching even the most remote, farthest, and underdeveloped regions. This boundless da’wa stems from the progressive values of Islam and is brought to life through ‘Aisyiyah’s practical actions in various spheres of life.”
Salmah also stressed the need for Aisyiyah at all levels to become increasingly responsive to the social issues affecting families, children, and women. The organization must be able to understand these issues and provide effective solutions.
“Aisyiyah should also emerge as a powerful force within the religious landscape,” Salmah asserted. “The organization should educate and serve as a moral compass for the millennial generation, navigating amidst the complexities of social change and contemporary challenges.”
Salmah further remarked that social groups, including Generation Z and millennials, require da’wa and preaching that is joyful, instills optimism, ignites a passion for a progressive lifestyle, inculcates a culture of non-violence, and instills core values of goodness. Ultimately, this approach will lead to a more civilized and progressive society.
