MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, SPAIN – Secretary of Muhammadiyah Muhammad Sayuti became a speaker in the leadership training and upgrading for the Muhammadiyah Special Branches throughout Europe and the Mediterranean on May 11-12, 2024 at the Indonesian Embassy in Madrid.
Sayuti discussed the concept of service within Islam Berkemajuan (Progressive Islam). He highlighted community service as the first and most crucial aspect. Here, strengthening brotherhood (ukhuwah) and improving the overall quality of the Muslim community are paramount.
“Brotherhood is a cornerstone of strong communities,” explained Sayuti. “Service that fosters this brotherhood shouldn’t be limited by national borders. The global nature of the ummah (Muslim community) necessitates a global approach to service.”
Sayuti emphasized the importance of maintaining silaturahim (fostering connections) at all levels – individual, community, and institutional. He stressed that silaturahim goes beyond physical interaction, encompassing social, cultural, and intellectual connections.
“A strong global network is essential,” Sayuti said. “It allows us to develop solidarity, prioritize moderation (wasathiyah), and showcase Islam as a mercy for all (rahmatan li al-alamin). Islamic brotherhood serves as the foundation for building broader connections across religious and national divides. Strengthening the international role of Indonesian Muslims is crucial for creating a peaceful and progressive Islamic world.”
Sayuti also mentioned that the Muslim population is growing rapidly around the world. This is due to several factors, including high birth rates among Muslims and people converting to Islam.
Sayuti acknowledged this growth but also expressed a concern. He highlighted a saying of the Prophet Muhammad that he would be proud of a large number of ummah.
“However, the large number should be matched by the quality of human resources within the ummah, said Sayuti.
To improve the quality of the ummah, there needs to be a strong emphasis on service that improves education, health, and the well-being of the Muslim community. Additionally, efforts are required to protect the ummah from movements that promote shallow interpretations of faith.
Sayuti emphasized that the impact a Muslim community can have is determined by the quality of its members, not just the number.
“Providing high-quality services is the best way to ensure a strong and impactful Muslim community. This means focusing on education, health, and the overall well-being of the community,” said Sayuti at the event organized by the Muhammadiyah Special Branch (PCIM) of Spain and attended by representatives of the Netherlands, Germany, the UK & Ireland, Turkey, and Hungary.
Sayuti went on to discuss the concept of Dar al-‘Ahdi wa al-Syahadah, a national vision that emphasizes serving Indonesia.
“Indonesia, founded on the principles of Pancasila (dar al-‘ahdi), is a nation built on an agreement among all its citizens. This agreement should be upheld, and as al-syahadah citizens should strive to defend and advance the country,” said Sayuti.
Muhammadiyah is deeply committed to humanitarian work. Sayuti explained that this commitment is rooted in the Quran and the teachings (as-sunnah) of the Prophet Muhammad, which instruct Muslims to care for the weak and vulnerable, including the poor, elderly, disabled, and orphans. Muhammadiyah humanitarian actions are based on compassion and aim to improve the quality of life for all people.
“Islam Berkemajuan (Progressive Islam) is the driving force behind socio-cultural movements that focus on empowering people across different nations and tribes. It is based on a paradigm of compassion, aiming to improve the quality of human life through charitable acts and philanthropy involving all citizens,” explained Sayuti.
As a progressive organization, Muhammadiyah is increasingly called upon to play a role on the global stage. Sayuti highlighted the importance of Muhammadiyah demonstrating Islam’s true spirit of mercy for all humankind (rahmatan li al-alamin). “This principle of mercy extends to all people, regardless of nationality,” said Sayuti.
Sayuti elaborated on Muhammadiyah efforts to fulfill this mission. These efforts include building partnerships with like-minded organizations around the world (Muhammadiyah sister organizations), establishing branches of Muhammadiyah internationally, collaborating with international institutions, and promoting peace and conflict resolution. All of these activities contribute to Muhammadiyah’s internationalization.
Islam Berkemajuan emphasizes the importance of working in the present to build a better future.
“Preparing the next generation is key to achieving this goal. The next generation needs to be equipped with a strong moral foundation, knowledge, technological skills, and life skills in order to face the challenges of the future,” said Sayuti.
Sayuti emphasized the importance of science and technology for future progress. He pointed out that economic, political, and social development in today’s world are largely driven by scientific and technological advancements.
“Preparing for the future is not just a practical necessity, but also a religious obligation according to Islam. Islamic teachings emphasize that life in this world is an opportunity to do good deeds, the benefits of which can be felt in this life or the hereafter. Islam condemns those who are shortsighted and fail to plan for the long term,” said Sayuti.
