MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – Muhammadiyah has a long history of advocating for the Palestinian people, according to Fahmi Salim, the Head of Global Preaching and Cooperation of the Muhammadiyah Council for Religious Preaching. He emphasized that this commitment is not a recent development, urging members to remember Muhammadiyah historical dedication to Palestine’s cause.
Fahmi Salim specifically highlighted the contributions of Abdul Kahar Muzakkir, a Muhammadiyah figure and advocate for Palestine since the 1930s. Abdul Kahar Muzakkir played a pivotal role in building international diplomatic support for Palestine.
“Abdul Kahar Muzakir was the first Muhammadiyah figure involved in Palestinian affairs,” stated Fahmi Salim.
Notably, while studying in Egypt, Abdul Kahar Muzakkir actively fostered Islamic solidarity for both Palestinian independence and Indonesian independence. He was even personally invited by the Grand Mufti of Palestine, Sheikh Muhammad Amin Al-Husseini, to attend the 1931 Islamic World Congress in Jerusalem, Palestine.
Abdul Kahar Muzakkir’s dedication continued in 1937 when he attended another congress in Syria, carrying the mandate of 34 Indonesian Islamic organizations, including Muhammadiyah, to voice their unwavering support for Palestinian liberation.
Fahmi Salim also acknowledged Muhammad Rasyidi, a Muhammadiyah figure from Yogyakarta, who succeeded Muzakkir as a key advocate for Palestine in the Middle East.
According to Fahmi Salim, Muhammadiyah unwavering support for Palestine is deeply rooted in their Islamic faith. For Muhammadiyah, Islam extends beyond rituals and prayers; it encompasses broader humanitarian and social justice causes. This commitment manifests through symbolic actions, the provision of social and humanitarian aid, and educational scholarships for the Palestinian people, ensuring that Muhammadiyah support continues to this day.
