MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – President of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir hosted the United States Ambassador to Indonesia, Kamala Shirin Lakhdir, during a visit to Muhammadiyah headquarters in Jakarta on Tuesday, December 17. The meeting highlighted mutual concerns over global peace, humanitarian issues, and potential areas of collaboration between the United States and Muhammadiyah.
Accompanied by Muhammadiyah leaders Syafiq Mughni, Hilman Latief, and Muhammad Izzul Muslimin, Haedar warmly welcomed Ambassador Kamala and her delegation, including Political Consul David Muekhle, Frederick Hawkins, and Political Specialist Aang Abu Bakar.
During the meeting, Haedar urged the United States to actively support Palestinian independence through a two-state solution, emphasizing Muhammadiyah commitment to global peace.
“We know that America plays a significant role in human rights, peace, and the establishment of a new world order,” he said.
Muhammadiyah contributions to peacebuilding were also discussed, including the organization’s establishment of schools in Lebanon for survivors of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and scholarships for Palestinian students to study at Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah universities.
“We not only provide educational support but also work to build resilience and peace among young Palestinians,” Haedar explained.
Haedar highlighted the far-reaching impact of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, extending beyond the Middle East to regions like Indonesia and ASEAN. It called for broader participation in resolving this humanitarian crisis.
Haedar acknowledged that the conflict’s ripple effects have reached Indonesia but reassured that religious and social harmony within the country remains strong. He also shared insights on Indonesia’s pluralistic society, highlighting Muhammadiyah inclusive stance and openness to collaboration with all parties.
Meanwhile, Ambassador Kamala expressed her support for the two-state solution and highlighted ongoing U.S. efforts to promote peace globally, including in Syria and Palestine.
“We are working hard on a ceasefire between Israel and Palestine. The U.S. and Indonesia are also cooperating to provide humanitarian assistance,” she stated.
She emphasized the importance of non-governmental organizations like Muhammadiyah in fostering peace and interfaith harmony both in Indonesia and around the world.
The ambassador also touched on the challenges posed by social media in promoting global peace, noting its growing influence on human interactions. She expressed hope that peacebuilding efforts could be further strengthened through collaboration among governments, organizations, and communities.
The two-hour discussion extended beyond peacebuilding, addressing strategic opportunities in education, healthcare, and economic cooperation between Indonesia and the United States. The meeting underscored shared commitments to addressing global challenges and enhancing bilateral relations for a better future.
