MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA — A new book delving into the life and legacy of Haji Fachrodin was launched at the Grha Suara Muhammadiyah on Monday (August 12). The book, titled “Haji Fachrodin: Lokomotif Literasi dan Pers Islam” (Haji Fachrodin: The Locomotive of Literacy and Islamic Journalism), was authored by Roni Tobroni, Deputy Chair of the Muhammadiyah Council for Publication and Information.
Roni said that he was inspired to write the book since his involvement in the Fachrodin Award, an annual recognition given to outstanding journalism that highlights the history and local activities of Muhammadiyah.
“The Fachrodin Award was initiated to honor journalistic works that preserve the history and struggle of Muhammadiyah, inspired by the spirit of literacy that Haji Fachrodin instilled,” said Roni.
Through his involvement in the award, Roni became increasingly intrigued by Fachrodin’s life and work, leading him to embark on writing the book. He credited Muarif’s book, “Benteng Muhammadiyah: Sepenggal Riwayat dan Pemikiran Haji Fachrodin” (Fortress of Muhammadiyah: A Glimpse into the History and Thought of Haji Fachrodin), as a significant source of inspiration.
While Fachrodin was born into a family with ties to the Yogyakarta royal court, he demonstrated a strong anti-feudalistic stance from a young age. A versatile individual who excelled as an entrepreneur, politician, activist, and preacher, Roni argued that Fachrodin is best remembered for his significant contributions to Islamic journalism.
“I wanted to emphasize Fachrodin’s role as a journalist, particularly in the realm of Islamic journalism,” added Roni.
Fachrodin is often compared to Tirto Adhi Soerjo, another prominent Indonesian journalist also known for his critical stance against colonial Dutch policies. However, Roni argued that Fachrodin’s journalism was uniquely grounded in a blend of Indonesian and Islamic values.
Despite passing away at the young age of 39, Fachrodin’s legacy in journalism and literacy continues to inspire. He was not only a skilled writer but also a capable leader of various media institutions. In addition to Suara Muhammadiyah, Fachrodin was involved in other publications, such as Dunia Bergerak, Medan-Moeslimin, Islam Bergerak, and Bintang Islam, which played a crucial role in voicing the aspirations of the Muslims and Indonesian people’s struggles.
