Pancasila, the state philosophy of Indonesia, emerged from a lengthy process involving diverse figures from various backgrounds. Among the organizations that made significant contributions to the formation of Pancasila is Muhammadiyah. Established by Ahmad Dahlan in 1912, this organization has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s character and concept of nationalism. Here are some of the Muhammadiyah figures who contributed to the formulation of Pancasila.
1. Ki Bagus Hadikusumo
Ki Bagus Hadikusumo was a prominent Muhammadiyah figure who played a crucial role in the deliberations of the BPUPKI (Indonesian Preparatory Committee for Independence) and the PPKI (Committee for the Preparation of Indonesian Independence). He was known for his unwavering stance in upholding Islamic principles during the formulation of the state ideology.
Throughout the BPUPKI sessions, Ki Bagus Hadikusumo advocated for the reflection of Islamic values in Indonesia’s state ideology. Nevertheless, he also demonstrated a spirit of compromise and tolerance when he accepted the Jakarta Charter, which included the phrase “Ketuhanan dengan kewajiban menjalankan syariat Islam bagi pemeluk-pemeluknya” (Divinity, with the obligation to obey Islamic law for its adherents). When this phrase was ultimately amended for the sake of national unity, Ki Bagus Hadikusumo remained supportive of Pancasila as the state foundation, guided by the spirit of togetherness and unity.
2. K.H. Mas Mansur
K.H. Mas Mansur, a scholar and Muhammadiyah figure, also played a significant role in Indonesia’s independence movement and in the formulation of Pancasila. As a member of the BPUPKI, K.H. Mas Mansur actively participated in discussions on the state foundation. Moreover, he was part of the “Empat Serangkai” (the Four Musketeers) alongside Ir. Soekarno, Drs. Mohammad Hatta, and Ki Hajar Dewantara, who played a major role in preparing Indonesia’s independence.
K.H. Mas Mansur supported the idea of Pancasila as a state ideology that could unite the diverse groups and religions in Indonesia. His views on the importance of national unity and cohesion were reflected in his contributions to the Pancasila formulation process.
3. Dr. Abdul Kahar Muzakir
Dr. Abdul Kahar Muzakir, another Muhammadiyah figure, was also actively involved in the BPUPKI and PPKI. As an academic and Muhammadiyah leader, Dr. Abdul Kahar Muzakir provided intellectual insights that supported the development of the Pancasila concept. He strived to ensure that Indonesia’s state ideology reflected strong moral and religious values, while also accommodating the cultural and religious diversity of Indonesia.
4. Mr. Kasman Singodimedjo
Mr. Kasman Singodimedjo was a prominent figure in the history of Indonesia’s struggle for independence, particularly in the process of formulating Pancasila as the state ideology. As an independence fighter, leader, and Muhammadiyah figure, Kasman made significant contributions to the establishment of the foundation of an independent and sovereign Indonesian state.
Mr. Kasman Singodimedjo was a member of the BPUPKI and PPKI. These two bodies played key roles in formulating the state ideology and preparing the proclamation of Indonesian independence. During the BPUPKI sessions, Mr. Kasman Singodimedjo actively participated in discussions and debates on the state’s foundation. He was known as a figure with moderate views who could bridge the diverse interests and perspectives in the deliberations. Kasman supported the idea that Indonesian state ideology should accommodate the diversity of ethnicities, religions, and cultures present in Indonesia.
5. Ir. Sukarno
Ir. Sukarno, who later became the first President of Indonesia, played a central role in the formation of Pancasila as the state ideology of Indonesia. On June 1, 1945, in a session of the BPUPKI (Indonesian Preparatory Committee for Independence), Sukarno presented his ideas on five principles that could serve as the foundation for an independent Indonesia. This speech is now known as the birth of Pancasila.
Sukarno proposed five main principles that later became known as Pancasila:
- Kebangsaan Indonesia (Indonesian Nationalism): Emphasizing the importance of national unity and identity,
- Internasionalisme atau Perikemanusiaan (Internationalism or Humanitarianism): Underlining universal solidarity and humanity,
- Mufakat atau Demokrasi (Consensus or Democracy): Prioritizing decision-making through deliberation and democracy,
- Kesejahteraan Sosial (Social Welfare): Emphasizing social justice and welfare for all Indonesian people,
- Ketuhanan yang Berkebudayaan (Belief in One God with Cultural Values): Respecting freedom of religion and acknowledges the existence of God.
Muhammadiyah Contribution to Shape Characters of Indonesia
Through education and da’wa, Muhammadiyah has played a pivotal role in shaping the character of the Indonesian nation. The organization’s educational approach emphasizes not just academic knowledge but also the cultivation of good character and strong ethical values. This aligns perfectly with the spirit of Pancasila, which prioritizes human values, justice, and national unity.
Throughout its history, Muhammadiyah has established a vast network of schools, hospitals, and various social institutions that have demonstrably improved the quality of life for countless Indonesians. These contributions represent Pancasila values put into action, creating a more just and prosperous society. Muhammadiyah dedication to these ideals seamlessly aligns with the very essence of Pancasila.
The legacy of Muhammadiyah leaders during the birth of Pancasila is woven into the fabric of Indonesian history. Figures as Ki Bagus Hadikusumo, K.H. Mas Mansur, and Dr. Abdul Kahar Muzakir left an indelible mark on the nation’s ideology. Their unwavering commitment to tolerance and national unity shaped the very foundation of Pancasila. The values they championed continue to resonate within the spirit of Pancasila, serving as a guiding light for the Indonesian people to this day.
