MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – The Central Board of Muhammadiyah welcomed a visit of the Batak Protestant Christian Church (HKBP) at the Muhammadiyah headquarters, Jakarta, on Tuesday, June 17. The meeting marked a moment of interfaith friendship and mutual respect.
President of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir expressed gratitude for the visit and saw it as a reflection of strong interfaith relations.
“We truly appreciate this visit, led by Ephorus and his team. I’m also thankful for the warm message of brotherhood, and for being given the ulos, a traditional Batak cloth that symbolizes kinship and unity in diversity,” said Haedar.
Header explained that several issues were discussed during the meeting. First, the role of religion is a source of shared values that can unite the nation and strengthen harmony in society.
“Religion must bring values that help strengthen unity in our diverse society. The Ephorus clearly stated that we cannot become a strong nation if we remain divided,” said Haedar.
Second, both parties discussed the alarming social challenges in Indonesia, including drug abuse, gambling, and corruption, which threaten the nation’s future. Third, it is essential to address environmental concerns.
“We should take care of our environment, preserve it, and manage it responsibly,” added Haedar.
Haedar emphasized that with this shared understanding, both organizations hope to inspire government leaders to fulfill their constitutional duties and work toward national goals.
“We hope all state officials will carry out their responsibilities to realize our national aspirations. As for Muhammadiyah, we will continue contributing through education, healthcare, social work, and religious guidance,” said Haedar.
HKBP Ephorus, Rev. Victor Tinambunan, also expressed appreciation for Muhammadiyah openness to interfaith dialogue. He praised Muhammadiyah for its significant contributions to the nation, particularly in education.
“What Muhammadiyah has done is truly remarkable, especially in improving education. With more than 170 universities and hundreds of hospitals, that’s an incredible achievement,” said Victor.
He added that a nation’s progress is closely related to the quality of its education and how well its people live in harmony.
“Progress depends greatly on education and peaceful coexistence. If all parts of society work together, our country will continue to grow stronger,” said Victor.
To further strengthen their relations, the HKBP leaders invited Muhammadiyah to visit their headquarters. Both organizations believe this kind of openness is key to building stronger interfaith connections based on mutual respect and shared values.
This meeting was a meaningful example of interfaith dialogue that focuses on cooperation and shared responsibility in addressing national issues. With continued collaboration and a spirit of unity, organizations like Muhammadiyah and HKBP are helping build a peaceful and progressive future for Indonesia.
