MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAYAWIJAYA – During a visit to Walesi Village, known as the “Pancasila Village” in Jayawijaya Regency, Chairman of the Muhammadiyah Central Board (PP Muhammadiyah), Agung Danarto, underscored the importance of equality and the right of every ethnic group to advance and prosper.
Delivering the Friday (7/11) sermon (khutbah) at Al-Aqsho Mosque, Walesi, Agung reminded the congregation that in Islam, a person’s true worth is measured not by ethnicity or social status, but by piety.
Expressing gratitude for the warm welcome extended by the local community, Agung said he was deeply impressed by both the breathtaking landscape of Jayawijaya’s highlands and the harmony among its people.
“This place radiates kindness and hospitality, something truly extraordinary,” he said.
He urged the Muslim community in Walesi to serve as a unifying force amid diversity and to play an active role in advancing civilization as he emphasized, Islam’s very first command, to read, represents the foundation of an enlightened and progressive society.
“Muslim here must become a source of compassion for all. Blessings, dignity, and love are not meant to be kept for oneself. Islam must bring mercy and prosperity to humanity,” he reminded.
Agung went on to stress that knowledge and education are key to progress for any community, nation, or ethnic group. He encouraged children in Walesi to pursue higher education and not to settle for minimal education.
To support this, he announced that Muhammadiyah would offer scholarships for local students interested in continuing their studies at Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah Universities. The organization currently operates several universities in Papua, including in Jayapura and Sorong, as well as across Java.
“If there are children from Walesi who wish to continue their studies at Muhammadiyah institutions, whether in Papua or Java, we are ready to welcome them. We may even provide scholarships for one or two students.” Agung said.
He expressed hope that education would empower the younger generation to build a more prosperous and peaceful society. Social and economic inequality, he noted, often fuels conflict more than differences in belief. (Bintang Adrian)
