MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, SIDOARJO – A distinguished professor at Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) Prof. Munir Mulkhan emphasized that pluralism is an undeniable reality and will persist until the end of time. The Qur’an mentioned the differences and human diversity.
Regarding the Muhammadiyah mission, this movement will not insist all human beings to convert to Islam, but aspires to create true Muslims.
“We have to recognize that the world’s diversity will remain constant. Therefore, we need to reframe our understanding of Muhammadiyah goals and our approach to da’wa,” said Prof. Munir at the preaching conducted by the Muhammadiyah Council for Higher Education, Research, and Development on Thursday (July 25).
This reevaluation, according to Prof. Munir, will not only help Muhammadiyah preachers to overcome feelings of inadequacy but also enable them to develop more effective and relevant strategies for sharing their faith.
To foster a deeper understanding of pluralism within the movement, Prof. Munir highlighted the five fundamental rights and responsibilities outlined in the Risalah Islam Berkemajuan (A Treatise on Progressive Islam). These include the freedom of religion, the right to life, the right to intellectual development, the right to procreate, and the right to property.
“By acknowledging these fundamental rights, Muhammadiyah educational institutions have become more inclusive, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds. This inclusive approach is rooted in the philosophy of Muhammadiyah education, as outlined in the decision of the 2010 Muktamar (Muhammadiyah Congress) in Yogyakarta Muktamar,” said Prof. Munir.
The professor further emphasized that Muhammadiyah educational philosophy prioritizes quality, openness, scientific inquiry, and rationality. The Treatise on Progressive Islam promotes a progressive interpretation of Islam that encourages Muslims to embrace advancements and engage positively with the modern world.
