MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, PEKALONGAN — Haedar Nashir, President of Muhammadiyah, is addressing concerns about the term “Islam Berkemajuan” (Progressive Islam). He worries some misinterpret it as suggesting a new branch of Islam, like “saying there’s a ‘Progressive Islam’ and then there must be a ‘Regressive Islam.'”
Speaking at the opening of the 32nd National Conference of the Muhammadiyah Council for Fatwa and Renewal at the Universitas Muhammadiyah Pekajangan Pekalongan on Friday, February 23, Haedar emphasized the need for clear understanding among Muhammadiyah members.
He explained that “Islam Berkemajuan” comes from official decisions made at past major congresses such as the 46th Congress (Muktamar) of Muhammadiyah in Yogyakarta in 2010 and the 48th Muhammadiyah Congress in Surakarta in 2022. It’s not a new sect or madhhab, but rather a “religious view” or “Islamic perspective” like any other. It emphasizes the progressive values already present within Islam, not a rejection of its core teachings.
“Think of it as a way of looking at Islam through a progressive lens,” Haedar said. “This is crucial to avoid misunderstandings and negativity. The term ‘Islam Berkemajuan’ shouldn’t be seen as implying something negative about Islam itself.”
Haedar stressed that “Islam Berkemajuan” is meant to strengthen and deepen people’s understanding of Islam, not diminish it. It highlights the inherent values of peace, tolerance, openness, and opposition to violence and injustice.
In the context of spreading Islam (da’wah), “Islam Berkemajuan” emphasizes a more cultural-adaptive approach rather than a confrontational one.
Haedar urged the conference participants to strengthen their arguments for “Islam Berkemajuan” by citing the Quran and hadith. He believes this will foster understanding and acceptance.
Through this initiative, Muhammadiyah hopes to become a leader in promoting progressive Islamic values that are relevant to the modern world. They aim to ensure a deeper understanding of Islam that promotes peace, tolerance, and justice.
