MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA — President of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir highlighted the importance of learning from the past year and to prepare for the future with a strong moral and spiritual foundation in the Year-End Reflection 2024 on Monday, December 30.
“A year has passed, teaching us many lessons. These lessons should become moral and spiritual guidance as we face the coming year,” said Haedar.
He encouraged people to view the New Year as a time for reflection rather than celebration, cautioning against extravagant festivities like fireworks.
“The passing of a year reduces our time in the world. Islam, through Surah Al-‘Asr, teaches us the importance of time. Humanity is at a loss unless they have faith, do good deeds, and encourage each other in truth and patience,” said Haedar.
Haedar emphasized the need for balanced progress in Indonesia, combining physical achievements like infrastructure development with improvements in social, moral, and spiritual areas. He raised concerns about issues such as declining spirituality, persistent corruption, and the lack of public policies that truly benefit the people.
First, Haedar called for religion to play a more meaningful role in addressing spiritual emptiness, describing it as a “sacred canopy” that should offer guidance and hope. He cautioned against reducing religion to superficial entertainment, which often neglects its deeper essence. He urged a focus on the substance of faith rather than its artificial presentation in public spaces.
Second, turning to national issues, Haedar supported President Prabowo’s commitment to fighting corruption and urged stronger efforts across all levels of government.
“It should be the political will of the Executive, Legislative, Judiciary, and local administrations. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) needs to be reinforced with integrity to lead this effort,” said Haedar.
Third, Haedar also stressed the importance of strengthening democracy after the 2024 elections, highlighting challenges such as money politics and the lack of moral integrity among civil officials. He called for a shift towards a more meaningful and substantive democracy, urging all state institutions to embrace democratic values beyond mere procedures.
Fourth, discussing the 2024 Regional Elections, Haedar encouraged local leaders to govern with integrity, steering clear of corruption, nepotism, and harmful policies that exploit public resources.
Last, he further urged the government to adopt people-centered policies, warning against decisions that create unnecessary conflict.
“From past experiences, we’ve seen too much energy wasted on divisive policies. It’s time to move forward with care and focus on the people’s aspirations,” said Haedar.
In closing, Haedar called on all Indonesians to work together for a brighter future, guided by moral awareness and shared values. He expressed hope that this reflection would inspire collective progress as the nation steps into 2025.
