MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, MAKASSAR – Muhammadiyah Chairperson of Education, Culture, and Sports Irwan Akib highlighted that Muhammadiyah continues to show its strong commitment to Eastern Indonesia through real impactful work, especially in education.
Irwan emphasized that Muhammadiyah contributions often come before government involvement, especially in reaching underserved communities.
“In Sorong, we have two universities, Universitas Pendidikan Muhammadiyah (UNIMUDA) Sorong and Universitas Muhammadiyah Sorong (UNAMIN). Indeed, the UNIMUDA Sorong, stands on 45 hectares of land and runs schools in areas where the government has not yet reached,” said Irwan in the 62nd anniversary celebration of Universitas Muhammadiyah (Unismuh) Makassar on Thursday, June 19.
Besides, Muhammadiyah also operates universities in Papua, including in the cities of Papua, Manokwari, and Teluk Bintuni. Muhammadiyah is also currently building a hospital in Sorong to further support public health in the area.
Beyond Papua, Muhammadiyah has established higher education institutions in East Nusa Tenggara, such as Universitas Muhammadiyah Maumere and Universitas Muhammadiyah Kupang. These universities serve students of various religious backgrounds, reflecting Muhammadiyah inclusive and community-focused approach to education.
“Muhammadiyah has often acted before the government simply because it was founded earlier,” added Irwan.
The organization also maintains a strong presence in West Nusa Tenggara with institutions such Universitas Muhammadiyah Bima and Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram, as well as in the Maluku Islands with Universitas Muhammadiyah Maluku and Universitas Muhammadiyah Maluku Utara.
Through these efforts, Muhammadiyah continues to play a key role in expanding access to quality education in Eastern Indonesia, helping to build a brighter future for all, regardless of background or belief.
