EN.MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA — The Central Board of Muhammadiyah has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu, with its leaders honoring his long record of public service and his dedication to national cohesion.
Haedar Nashir, President of the Central Board of Muhammadiyah, delivered the organization’s condolences on Sunday (31/5). He prayed that Ryamizard would receive divine mercy and forgiveness.
“His integrity and dedication to serving the nation became an important part of his lifelong contribution,” Haedar said.
Ryamizard, who served as Indonesia’s defense minister from 2014 to 2019, was widely known as a retired military officer with a strong commitment to safeguarding national unity. Throughout his career, he consistently emphasized the importance of preserving Indonesia’s territorial integrity and strengthening social cohesion.
Moreover, the Muhammadiyah leader noted that his role extended beyond state administration. They described him as a public figure who maintained close communication with many elements of Indonesian society.
According to Haedar, Ryamizard often engaged in discussions with Muhammadiyah on strategic national issues. Those meetings focused on ways to strengthen social harmony and reinforce collective efforts to preserve national solidarity.
A Legacy of Dialogue and Service
In several visits to Muhammadiyah’s central headquarters, Ryamizard participated in conversations on issues affecting Indonesia’s future. Those exchanges reflected his broader concern for civic life and his willingness to build bridges across institutional and ideological lines.
Furthermore, Muhammadiyah highlighted his attention to the well-being of ordinary citizens. Leaders within the organization said his outreach demonstrated a consistent concern for maintaining constructive relationships with civil society.
Haedar also offered prayers for the family he leaves behind. He expressed hope that they would find strength and patience during this period of mourning.
“Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un,” he said, reciting the Islamic expression meaning, “To God we belong and to Him we return.”
He concluded by praying that all of Ryamizard’s good deeds would be accepted and that he would be granted the best place in the hereafter.
His passing marks the loss of a figure remembered not only for his military and governmental service, but also for his efforts to encourage dialogue in Indonesia’s diverse national landscape.
