MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – The Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Army (KASAD), Lieutenant General Maruli Simanjuntak, visite the Muhammadiyah headquarters of Yogyakarta on Tuesday, May 27. During the visit, President of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir spoke about the deep and historic connection between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and Muhammadiyah.
Haedar explained that Muhammadiyah connection with the TNI goes back to Indonesia’s struggle for independence, especially through the role of General Sudirman, who was a Muhammadiyah member. Before leading troops in battle, General Sudirman was involved in Muhammadiyah scouting movement, Hizbul Wathan, and worked as a teacher at a Muhammadiyah school.
“In 1947, during the first Dutch military aggression, we formed the Askar Perang Sabil to fully support the TNI’s operations in Yogyakarta and southern Central Java,”said Haedar.
The formation of the Askar Perang Sabil, he explained, proved that Muhammadiyah contributed to the fight for independence not only through education, health, and social work, but also through direct involvement in defending the country.
Haedar also pointed to Muhammadiyah’s important role in advancing the nation through women’s movements. He mentioned ‘Aisyiyah, founded in 1917, as an example. He noted that the movement played a key role in the first Indonesian Women’s Congress in 1928 and highlighted two of its leading figures, Siti Munjiah and Siti Hayinah, who are now being proposed as National Heroes.
Haedar welcomed the Army Chief’s visit as an opportunity to strengthen mutual understanding and national cooperation.
“We want to work together with the TNI, the police, and all elements of the nation to build a better Indonesia,” said Haedar.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Maruli expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome and admiration for Muhammadiyah strong presence across Indonesia.
“Actually, we are the ones who want to learn more. Tomorrow, we will open the second Ahmad Yani University here in Yogyakarta. The first one is in Cimahi,” informed Lieutenant General Maruli.
He said the Army, particularly in the field of education, could learn from Muhammadiyah experience in managing institutions ranging from early childhood schools to universities.
He also praised Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD) for developing a portable missile system, calling it an impressive achievement that supports national defense and security.
Lieutenant General Maruli expressed deep respect for General Sudirman’s leadership and encouraged Army units throughout the country to collaborate with Muhammadiyah. Muhammadiyah has clearly shown its real contribution to the nation.
