MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, BANDUNG—Muhammadiyah, through its 48th congress (Muktamar) in Surakarta on 18-20 November, determined strategic issues. One of them is social issues. According to the member of the Muhammadiyah Council for Tarjih and Tajdid Alimatul Qibtiyah, there are seven public issues.
First, it deals with religious regimentation. According to Alimatul, Indonesia is a Pancasila-based country, not a religious or secular state. Thus, no religion and no religious group of people may dominate. However, the power of formalization of religion in public and religious regimentation occur.
“We have to respect diverse views of Muslims,” Alimatul said at the Gerakan Subuh Mengaji on Thursday (26/01).
Second, the public issue is regarding digital godliness. Religious leaders, intellectual scholars, elites, headmen, educational institutions, and socio-religious organizations should be actively involved in developing a digital civilization and becoming role models in utilizing technology. Therefore, it is essential to have religious and moral guidance for building digital godliness in all institutions and societies.
Third, it is about strengthening the unity of the people. It requires more intensive communication among Islamic organization leaders to eliminate primordial sentiments and create personal friendships.
Fourth, it is concerned with Islamic philanthropic governance reform. “I am glad that Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah have economic movements in every sector. Here’s how Lazismu (the Muhammadiyah zakat management body), Muhammadiyah Disaster Management Center), and other boards play important roles in Islamic philanthropy or help the needy,” said Alimatul.
Fifth, it is as regards enlightening religion. In understanding religious teachings, three approaches are used, namely bayani (textual approach), burhani (reasoning approach), and ‘irfani (feeling approach). “If we use the approaches, religion will be a medium of enlightenment,” said Alimatul.
Sixth, it is related to the authenticity of wasathiyah Islam (moderation of Islam). Wasathiyah refers to building a moderate religious attitude and perspective by prioritizing understandings and attitudes that are just, good, wise, and peaceful and spreading grace in addressing differences and building religious life.
Seventh, it is vis-à-vis the spirituality of the millennial generation. Shifts and changes in their way of thinking and life, which tend to refrain them from the noble values of Indonesian culture and religion, can lead to early religious degeneration. The millennial generation is the executor, successor of the struggle, and future leader responsible for advancing and building the welfare of the people, nation, and state.
