EN.MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, SIDOARJO – Muhammadiyah’s internationalization is increasingly needed amid pressing global challenges, ranging from humanitarian conflicts to efforts to build a more just and peaceful world order.
The statement was made by Syafiq A. Mughni, Chairperson of the Central Board of Muhammadiyah, during the graduation ceremony of Muhammadiyah University of Sidoarjo (UMSIDA) on Wednesday (28/10).
Syafiq stressed that Muhammadiyah has a significant responsibility to continue contributing to national development and addressing humanitarian challenges.
He said Muhammadiyah could not rely on political power or other entities outside the organization. Instead, it must take independent steps to contribute to the nation’s development.
“That is why we continue to work to build this nation,” Syafiq said.
Muhammadiyah’s Contribution to Indonesia and Beyond
Syafiq was highlighting Muhammadiyah’s involvement in global peace efforts. He cited its role in supporting the peace process between the Philippine government and the Moro Muslim community.
He explained that Muhammadiyah was one of the members of the International Contact Group (ICG), which helped monitor and support the peace negotiations.
“The International Contact Group includes several international organizations and governments that support the peace process. These include Sant’Egidio from Italy, Humanitarian Reconciliation from Australia, and Humanitarian Resources from Thailand. Government actors involved include the United Kingdom, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia,” he explained.
Muhammadiyah’s engagement in international forums, he added, has also prompted more foreign delegations to visit and learn about the organization.
Addressing UMSIDA graduates, Syafiq noted that growing international interest in Muhammadiyah was also reflected in the increasing interest among international students in studying at Muhammadiyah universities.
“This is one way Muhammadiyah contributes to building the nation together,” he said.
Through its educational institutions, Muhammadiyah continues to strive to provide access to enlightening education without social, ethnic, cultural, or religious barriers.
“We are all one humanity, and everyone deserves to receive the enlightening touch of Muhammadiyah,” he emphasized.
Syafiq also noted that further ideas for developing Muhammadiyah’s Internationalization would be discussed at the upcoming Muhammadiyah Tanwir conference.
“If approved, this will become an important document to guide Muhammadiyah’s future engagement in the international arena,” he concluded. (bhisma)
