MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID BANTUL – President of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir expressed concern about the increasing influence of liberal ideologies on national education, particularly promoted by liberal feminist groups.
“We are currently experiencing a period of significant global social change. Liberal values have been infiltrating our society overtly and subtly and have weakened our cultural values,” said Haedar at the inauguration of the UMY Student Dormitory and Djarnawi Hadikusuma Building at Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) on Friday, October 4.
Haedar further highlighted the issue of the LGBTQ+ movement as an example of the consequences of unchecked liberalism. While some people acknowledge the humanitarian aspects of such issues, he emphasized that they deviate from the norms established by the constitution, religion, and the nation’s cultural values.
“To be tolerant of such deviations means adopting a secular and liberal perspective that prioritizes Western humanism without critical evaluation,” he explained.
Haedar pointed out that liberal feminist groups in Indonesia have successfully influenced national education policies, often promoting a value-neutral perspective. He urged the audience not to underestimate the gravity of this situation.
“Over the past five years, there has been a massive influx of liberal ideologies into the nation’s educational institutions. As a result, the values of faith, piety, and noble character, as enshrined in Article 31 of the 1945 Constitution, are being marginalized in the national education roadmap,” said Haedar.
To address this challenge, Haedar called on Muhammadiyah educational institutions to remain committed to a moderate and progressive interpretation of Islam while firmly instilling the values of faith, piety, and noble character in students. He emphasized the importance of fostering inclusivity and tolerance for diversity while maintaining a strong religious identity.
“Muhammadiyah educational institutions should promote an inclusive approach that does not isolate students. We must instill strong religious values in our students while also fostering acceptance of diversity in terms of religion, ethnicity, and race,” Haedar said.
In conclusion, Haedar urged Muhammadiyah educational institutions to create safe learning environments free from bullying, sexual harassment, and physical violence.
