MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, SIDOARJO – Chairperson of Muhammadiyah Dadang Kahmad stated that Muhammadiyah has remained strong for more than a hundred years because it is built on a foundation of faith, which is put into action through good deeds and service to others.
According to Dadang, Muhammadiyah is more than just an active organization. This movement has benefited many people. He emphasized that this commitment to serving others is what helps the movement keep growing and staying strong.
To strengthen its impact, Muhammadiyah has made several key decisions, such as those discussed during the 48th Muktamar (Muhammadiyah Congress) in Surakarta in 2022. These decisions are organized into strategic issues that focus on religion, the nation, and universal humanity.
“The strategic issues come from our concerns about the conditions around us, such as the issues of the Muslim community, the country, or humanity in general,” mentioned Dadng in the forum conducted by Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo on May 25. .
Dadang pointed out that one of the major concerns today is how digital technology affects religious life, especially among the younger generation. He highlighted the importance of addressing issues like digital piety and how millennials practice their faith in the virtual world.
“These are serious challenges. Since the advent of the digital era, our society has experienced profound transformation. People are no longer as close as they used to be. Falsehood spreads easily, and online bullying and insults have become alarming,” said Dadang.
Dadang also mentioned a study by Microsoft that labeled Indonesian internet users as the most disrespectful on social media. This, he said, reflects a concerning trend in digital behavior that religious organizations like Muhammadiyah should take seriously.
The widespread growth of digital media has facilitated the spread of new ideologies, potentially affecting people’s religious beliefs.
“Some are trying to promote secularism, the idea that religion and life should be separate,” said Dadang.
Another challenge, according to Dadang, is extreme pluralism that people believe all religions are the same. He also warned about the spread of LGBTQ ideas and other belief systems that may conflict with Muhammadiyah values.
Despite these challenges, Dadang believed that by upholding religious values and committed to doing good for others, Muhammadiyah can continue to guide and serve future generations in an ever-changing world.
