MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – Muhammadiyah welcomed the Mufti of Perlis, Malaysia, on Wednesday, October 23. The meeting, held at the Muhammadiyah Central Leadership office in Jakarta, focused on the development of Islamic studies and its relationship with Western philosophy.
President of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir welcomed the Mufti and his delegation. He emphasized the importance of critically engaging with Western philosophy while not rejecting it outright. He also highlighted the need for a balanced approach to Islamic teachings, particularly regarding gender issues. He called for objective critiques of Islam, similar to those directed at Western philosophy.
Meanwhile, the Muhammadiyah Chairperson Anwar Abbas highlighted the significance of understanding Western ontology, which primarily focuses on the material world. He argued that Islamic ontology encompasses a broader perspective, including the Quran and Sunnah. Abbas also discussed the importance of reconciling scientific and religious knowledge, emphasizing that conflicts often arise from misunderstandings. Furthermore, he stressed the role of economic empowerment in Islamic leadership, proposing a concept of “4P” – profit, people, planet, and paradise – as a framework for holistic development.
In addition, the Mufti of Perlis, Dato’ Maza, expressed his hope for continued cooperation between Muhammadiyah and Perlis to strengthen the Islamic community. He called for deeper discussions on Western philosophy, particularly on their understanding of knowledge and truth. Dato’ Maza noted that Indonesia is a prime target for Western philosophical influence in the global discourse.
The meeting between Muhammadiyah and the Mufti of Perlis highlighted the importance of intellectual exchange and cooperation among Islamic scholars and organizations. Both sides expressed a commitment to promoting a deeper understanding of Islam and its relationship to the modern world.
