MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – Muhammadiyah aims to strengthen the Muslim community’s weak economic foundation by pushing for economic development as a fourth pillar of its movement.
President of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir said Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah universities would play a significant role in the economic sector.
“Muhammadiyah-‘Aisyiyah universities has great potential to establish and develop businesses,” said Haedar said on October 6 at the SM Hotel, Tower, and Convention, Yogyakarta.
In addition to supporting universities and educating the nation, the economic pillar aims to strengthen Muhammadiyah through careful planning and execution, according to Haedar.
During the 2022-2027 leadership period, Muhammadiyah is also encouraging the establishment of businesses such as limited liability companies. The establishment of SM Hotel, Tower, and Convention by PT. SCM, is an example of the economic movement.
“The SM Tower is just the beginning. We are expanding into tourism and hospitality industries, planning to construct another building in front of Gedoeng Muhammadiyah,” said Haedar.
Gedung Muhammadiyah, located on KH. Ahmad Dahlan Street in Yogyakarta, is a cultural heritage building. It is expected to become a popular tourist attraction and enhance the city’s beauty.
Muhammadiyah, through the Muhammadiyah Council for Economy, Business, and Tourism, is encouraged to invest in the mining, plantation, and forestry sectors. According to Haedar, these sectors have great potential for development, but unfortunately, they have often been poorly managed, resulting in adverse outcomes.
“Muhammadiyah is not opposed to developing conglomerates. But we want to develop conglomerates that will help the nation progress. I think this is a new era, and we are just getting started. We hope to achieve this in five years.”
“Muhammadiyah supports the development of companies that contribute to the advancement of our nation. We believe this is a brand new start and are optimistic about achieving our goal within the next five years,” said Haedar.
According to Haedar, Muhammadiyah’s involvement in crucial economic sectors would demonstrate responsible management and conservation of natural resources. The advantages of these businesses should not solely benefit individuals or organizations but also contribute to Indonesia’s development as a nation.