MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – Chairperson of Muhammadiyah Agung Danarto emphasized the ongoing struggle against poverty in Indonesia. He pointed out that a significant portion of the population still lives below the national poverty line with income of Rp. 600,000 per month. Importantly, Agung Danarto stressed that poverty is not solely a rural issue; it is prevalent in urban areas as well.
“This signifies that poverty transcends geographical boundaries. Muhammadiyah da’wa efforts prioritize these underprivileged communities, both in urban and rural settings,” said Agung
Agung went on to emphasize that being Muslim goes beyond fulfilling religious obligations. It also involves actively applying Islamic teachings to daily life, fostering strong social connections, and contributing to the community’s well-being.
Acknowledging the complexities of empowering communities, Agung cautioned against simplistic solutions. He warned that serious efforts to empower communities may face resistance from powerful individuals involved in exploitative practices.
“The Muhammadiyah Council for Community Empowerment (MPM) cannot simply offer temporary handouts. They need to build a sustainable ecosystem that empowers communities for the long term,” said Agung.
Agung urged MPMs to adopt a holistic approach, empowering communities from the ground up – from the grassroots level to a robust market presence. He advocated for a collaborative approach to build this ecosystem.
“Creating a sustainable ecosystem necessitates collaboration with various stakeholders, both within Muhammadiyah and beyond. Within the organization, empowerment efforts should transcend departmental boundaries. Collaboration between various Muhammadiyah councils, and institutions (AUMs) is crucial to reignite our commitment to marginalized groups,” said Agung.
Currently to address poverty challenges in Indonesia, Muhammadiyah conducted a community empowerment program (SEKAM) conducted at the Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ).
The four-day event, starting from July 12 to 15, brings together 60 participants representing 19 Community Empowerment Councils (MPMs) of Muhammadiyah Provincial Board (PWMs) across Indonesia. This initiative highlights Muhammadiyah commitment to tackling poverty by empowering communities throughout the nation.
SEKAM: A Crucial Step in Muhammadiyah Da’wa
Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Council for Community Empowerment (MPM) M. Nurul Yamin explained that the SEKAM initiative stems from the Muhammadiyah programs outlined during the 48th Congress (Muktamar) in Surakarta.
The selection of UMJ as the venue for SEKAM Nasional I holds historical significance. UMJ is the oldest Muhammadiyah-Aisyiyah higher education institution.
“SEKAM Nasional I is held at UMJ for a reason. It is the first Muhammadiyah university. This carries historical weight, demonstrating UMJ’s role in a crucial phase of our nation’s history.”
Yamin emphasized that UMJ’s journey exemplifies the enduring values of Muhammadiyah struggle and da’wa. He urged the participants to become well-versed in Muhammadiyah stuggle for the Indonesian nation.
Citing the results of the 48th Muhammadiyah Congress (Muktamar), Yamin highlighted the renewed focus on strengthening da’wa among grassroots communities. He observed that these communities are increasingly losing their sense of belonging and facing challenges navigating the complexities of modern life.
MPM identified grassroots communities as encompassing farmers, fishermen, laborers, and marginalized groups in both urban and rural settings. Therefore, dedicated community empowerment cadres are essential to carry forward Muhammadiyah’s da’wa efforts.
“Community empowerment is a long-term commitment that requires significant energy. Community empowerment cadres are needed to ensure the continuity of Muhammadiyah da’wa mission,” said Yamin.
A Shared Commitment to Uplifting Communities
Ahmad Abu Bakar, Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Provincial Board of Jakarta, expressed his appreciation for the SEKAM initiative. He acknowledged that Muhammadiyah work is intrinsically linked to community empowerment, particularly for marginalized groups.
Abu Bakar emphasized that community empowerment is an integral part of Muhammadiyah efforts to uphold the teachings of Islam. He noted that Islam places great emphasis on building the well-being of the community.
Septa Chandra, Vice Rector IV of UMJ, welcomed the selection of UMJ as the host of SEKAM. He expressed his belief that nation-building begins at the village or community level. He hoped that the participants would utilize the knowledge and skills gained from SEKAM to contribute to this endeavor.
“May this event be successful and aligned with Khittah Muhammadiyah (Tract of Muhammadiyah),” said Ahmad Abu Bakar.
The event was also graced by the presence of Amien Rais, Former President of Muhammadiyah from 1995 to 1998, who delivered a keynote speech and motivated the SEKAM participants at UMJ.
