MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – Muhammadiyah reaffirms its commitment to supporting peacebuilding efforts in Palestine. Chairperson of Muhammadiyah Syafiq Mughni emphasized that Muhammadiyah humanitarian initiatives are neither a starting point nor an end but represent an ongoing journey toward creating a more peaceful world.
“We see the situation in Palestine and the Middle East as our focus. From the very beginning, Muhammadiyah has been deeply concerned with humanitarian issues,” said Syafiq at the Strategic Global Partnership for Palestine forum on the Prospect of Palestine Peacebuilding Program and the Future of Gaza, conducted on Monday, December 16, at the At Tanwir Mosque Hall, Jakarta.
Syafiq highlighted several initiatives that Muhammadiyah has undertaken to support peacebuilding efforts, including education programs and capacity-building training, particularly for women. .
“We have implemented various programs, such as humanitarian aid and educational initiatives, such as scholarships for Palestinians to study at Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah universities,” he explained.
Syafiq stated that these initiatives reflect Muhammadiyah broader mission to promote peace and social welfare. As a large organization, Muhammadiyah has a significant role not only in Indonesia but also on the global stage.
He also stressed the importance of using a psychosocial approach in peacebuilding efforts, particularly in conflict zones.
“In crises like the one in Palestine, psychological approaches are essential. Muhammadiyah plays a crucial role here. If we, Muhammadiyah, withdraw from these efforts, the consequences would be immense. That’s why fostering peace requires a strong psychosocial strategy,” he added.
Besides, the forum was attended by several figures, including Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia Zuhair Al-Shun, Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Department of Charity Management (Lazismu) Ahmad Imam Mujadid Rais, Secretary of the Muhammadiyah Department of International Relations and Cooperation Yayah Khisbiyah, Adeb Salem from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and Kayed Al Meary from Witnes-Syahid Palestine.
Ambassador Zuhair Al-Shaun expressed his deep gratitude for Indonesia’s and Muhammadiyah’s support for Palestine. He expressed hope for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict and the eventual independence of Palestine.
“I hope this program succeeds in supporting the independence of Palestine. Indonesia is a truly remarkable and beautiful country that has always supported Palestine wholeheartedly. I thank Indonesia and Muhammadiyah. Insya Allah, Palestine will be free and independent. Let’s work together to save Palestine,” said Zuhair Al-Shaun.
