MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – The Central Board of Muhammadiyah, represented by Chairman Busyro Muqoddas, welcomed President of the Communion of Churches in Indonesia (PGI) Rev. Gomar Gultom and his entourage on Thursday (June 13). The meeting took place at the Muhammadiyah office in Yogyakarta.
During the meeting, Rev. Gultom expressed his admiration for Muhammadiyah contributions in the fields of education and healthcare. He mentioned that despite managing vast assets, Muhammadiyah maintains a well-coordinated and sustainable approach to its operations.
Gultom further highlighted that many members of the Christian community have benefited from educational opportunities provided by Muhammadiyah universities, even in areas with a predominantly Christian population.
In response, Busyro Muqoddas, Chairman of Muhammadiyah, emphasized the importance of strengthening interfaith relations between Muhammadiyah and other faith-based organizations. He pointed out that Muhammadiyah has demonstrated its commitment to tolerance and moderation in religious practice by providing equal access to education for all, regardless of religious background or beliefs.
Busyro cited examples from Papua and Kupang, where Muhammadiyah universities have opened their doors to members of the Christian community to pursue higher education.
“Religious movements, either Islam, Christianity, Catholicism, Hinduism, Buddhism, or Confucianism, need to intensify their synergy in implementing their faith-based goals and objectives to protect the environment. Muhammadiyah adopts an inclusive approach in carrying out humanitarian and advocacy activities,” explained Busyro.
He further emphasized that it is the responsibility of religious organizations to ensure the interests of society, including protecting the environment and upholding human rights.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to continue discussions on national and state issues, as well as to foster positive interfaith relations through ongoing interactions. PGI and Muhammadiyah will establish a team composing representatives from their respective departments, councils, or organizational units relevant to the team’s mandates.
