EN.MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – The Central Board of Muhammadiyah welcomed a visit from Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Faisal bin Abdullah Al-Amudi, on Wednesday (28/10), at the Muhammadiyah headquarter in Central Jakarta.
The meeting discussed strengthening ties between Muhammadiyah and Saudi Arabia, Muslim unity, regional security, and expanded cooperation in education and the economy.
The ambassador was received by Muhammadiyah President Haedar Nashir, Chairperson Anwar Abbas, General Treasurer Hilman Latief, and Chairperson of Hajj and Umrah Department Muhammad Ziyad.
During the meeting, Haedar expressed Muhammadiyah’s respect and appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s role, particularly in safeguarding the Two Holy Cities and advancing Islamic outreach. He emphasized that the longstanding positive relationship and cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Muhammadiyah would continue to be maintained and developed.
Haedar also highlighted the importance of preserving unity among Muslim countries in the Gulf region involved in or affected by conflict. He said that conflicts and attacks among Muslims contradict the Islamic principle of brotherhood and could weaken the Muslim world’s standing internationally.
“When Muslim countries, Muslim nations, or groups within Muslim communities attack one another, it weakens the Muslim world in the eyes of other countries and the international community,” he said.
Haedar therefore expressed hope that Saudi Arabia would continue to play a role in maintaining Muslim unity and regional stability. He also stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, given that millions of Muslims from various countries visit the Holy Land each year.
Muhammadiyah also encouraged regional meetings among Middle Eastern countries to produce concrete measures to de-escalate conflict and promote peace.
Initiating Educational Cooperation between Two Institutions
Beyond security issues, Haedar called for stronger cooperation in education.
Muhammadiyah hopes to expand academic development programs at Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah educational institutions, including Arabic language and science training for teachers, lecturers, preachers, and imams, through educational partnerships.
Meanwhile, the Saudi ambassador reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to maintaining regional security and stability and protecting Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.
He also said that good relations with Muhammadiyah would grow stronger through various forms of collaboration.
“Our good relations will certainly continue to grow, and we are ready to provide assistance and cooperate with Muhammadiyah in advancing and improving the welfare of the Muslim community in particular,” he said.
The meeting reaffirmed both parties’ hopes to further develop ties between Muhammadiyah and Saudi Arabia. The two parties expected stronger cooperation in education, Hajj and Umrah services, humanitarian affairs, and the economy to bring broader benefits to the Muslim community. (Taufik)
