MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, MAKASSAR – Ramadan has passed, but the values learned throughout the holy month should continue to guide daily life.
“Fasting should not just leave us hungry and thirsty. If we truly understand its purpose, we will find deeper lessons beyond the physical rituals,” said Chairperson of Muhammadiyah Irwan Akib in a press release on Tuesday, April 8.
Irwan Akib explained that fasting is a form of social education that helps Muslims feel the hardship of those who go without food—not by choice, but because they simply can’t afford it. This experience should nurture empathy and social awareness.
Irwan also emphasized the importance of zakat al-Fitr (Fitrana), a form of religious compulsory charity paid by Muslims at the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
“Zakat al-Fitr doesn’t just purify wealth. It teaches us to care for others and reminds us not to be wasteful or overly focused on material things,” said Irwan Akib.
Irwan clarified that living a simple life does not mean avoiding success or wealth. Instead, Muslims are encouraged to earn a good living in a lawful way, while also being mindful of how they use their money.
“Muslims should work hard and earn as much as possible through halal means. Nevertheless, they should also manage their wealth wisely—meeting personal and family needs without extravagance, and using the rest to support good causes,” said Irwan Akib.
Irwan quoted the teachings of Ahmad Dahlan, the founder of Muhammadiyah, who advised Muslims to seek wealth through honest effort, meet their needs modestly, and give generously for the sake of Allah.
He warned against letting the values of Ramadan fade once the month ends. “Just because Ramadan is over doesn’t mean its lessons should be forgotten,” he said.
Irwan believes that, if public officials embraced the moral lessons of Ramadan, many of the country’s problems such as corruption, abuse of power, and misuse of public funds could be resolved.
“There would be no more leaders manipulating budgets for personal gain, or treating their staff unfairly. We wouldn’t see corrupt officials smiling for the cameras as if nothing’s wrong. Our nation’s resources wouldn’t be greedily exploited,” said Irwan Akib.
“If the values of Ramadan stayed with us, Indonesia would be a more peaceful, just, and prosperous country,” said Irwan Akib.
