MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – Chairperson of Muhammadiyah Agung Danarto mentioned a persistent challenge, namely the stubbornly high poverty rate in Indonesia. Citing various sources, Agung revealed that the poverty rate in the country remains stubbornly stuck around 9%, despite the government’s ongoing efforts. With a population of 275.5 million, this translates to a significant number of Indonesians living below the national poverty line.
An analysis of the geographical distribution of poverty in Indonesia reveals no significant disparity between urban and rural areas. This suggests that poverty is a widespread issue affecting both cities and villages across the nation.
Muhammadiyah, guided by the principles of Al Ma’un, a chapter from the Quran emphasizing social justice and helping those in need, has identified impoverished individuals as a primary target for its da’wa efforts,” said Agung Danarto in the Community Empowerment program at the Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) on Friday (July 12).
The spirit of Al Ma’un, as taught by Ahmad Dahlan is a powerful call to action. It urges Muslims to address oppression and fight for the betterment of their communities. Agung emphasizes that the principles of Al Ma’un remain acutely relevant in today’s world, just as they were in the past.
Agung Danarto acknowledges the role of structural factors, such as government policies and economic systems, in contributing to poverty. However, he argues that a more nuanced understanding is necessary. He highlights the existence of other significant factors that contribute to poverty, going beyond structural issues.
One example Danarto cites is the presence of powerful individuals who control the rice market, often referred to as “rice mafias.” These individuals can manipulate prices and exploit farmers, hindering their ability to earn a decent living. Additionally, Danarto criticizes the practice of large-scale rice imports during harvest seasons. This influx of foreign rice can drive down domestic prices, further squeezing the profit margins of Indonesian farmers who have just invested significant time and resources into their crops.
Agung Danarto also spoke about the challenges associated with empowering impoverished communities. He acknowledges that serious efforts to empower these communities will inevitably lead to complex issues. Powerful individuals who benefit from the status quo may resist these efforts. However, Danarto emphasizes that the potential rewards far outweigh the risks. Effective empowerment initiatives can significantly improve the lives of those trapped in poverty.
Finally, Agung Danarto calls for a streamlined approach to empowerment initiatives. He argues that focusing on a few high-impact programs is more effective than spreading resources across numerous smaller projects. By prioritizing quality over quantity, these initiatives can generate tangible and widespread benefits for impoverished communities.
