EN.MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, SURABAYA – Speaking at the 54th graduation ceremony of Muhammadiyah University of Surabaya on Monday (1/6) at Dyandra Convention Center, Saad Ibrahim highlighted the significance of a verse from Qur’an, Surah As-Saff verse 13. This particular verse frequently concludes sermons, speeches, and official Muhammadiyah events.
According to him, the verse serves as a prayer that has shaped the spirit of Muhammadiyah’s mission. He said the prayer has found concrete expression through the organization’s effort to strengthen Islamic teachings, uphold monotheism, and contribute to social progress.
“The reality is that Muhammadiyah has grown into a very large organization,” he said. “That, above all, is because of God’s help.”
Muhammadiyah, one of Indonesia’s largest Islamic organizations, has built an extensive network of schools, universities, hospitals and social service institutions. Its influence now stretches far beyond Indonesia, reflecting its growing international presence.
A Global Presence Rooted in Education
Saad noted that Muhammadiyah’s reach is no longer confined to Indonesia or predominantly Muslim countries. Citing a report from Abdul Mu’ti, he said the organization now has branches or representation in 31 countries.
He also pointed to the rising number of international students enrolling at Muhammadiyah-affiliated universities across Indonesia. Through their studies, many foreign students become acquainted with the organization’s values and often develop a strong affinity for its vision of progressive Islam.
Saad shared the story of a Nigerian student at Universitas Muhammadiyah Surabaya, identified as Aminu Khidir, who has expressed a desire to establish Muhammadiyah in his home country.
For Saad, such developments illustrate a broader spiritual reality.
“This shows that God moves even those outside Muhammadiyah to help elevate the organization,” he said.
He added that Muhammadiyah’s resilience also stems from its institutional structure. Unlike many organizations vulnerable to internal fragmentation, Muhammadiyah places its assets—including schools, universities and mosques — under the ownership of the broader association rather than individuals.
That collective ownership, he said, has helped preserve unity while allowing the organization to remain focused on service.
Beyond serving Muslims, Muhammadiyah has also extended benefits to non-Muslim communities through health care, education and community empowerment initiatives, reinforcing its longstanding commitment to serving society at large.
