EN.MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, KUALA LUMPUR — A new chapter in the history of Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah abroad was marked in Klang Lama, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with the inauguration of the Special Sub-branch Board of Muhammadiyah (PRIM) and the Special Sub-branch Board of ‘Aisyiyah (PRIA) Klang Lama on Sunday (20/9).
The inauguration was particularly significant because PRIM and PRIA Klang Lama are described as the first sub-branch boards in the world to be officially inaugurated directly by the Muhammadiyah Central Board.
Muhammadiyah Central Board Secretary Muhammad Sayuti delivered the inauguration address and formally installed the new PRIM and PRIA Klang Lama.
Sayuti said the inauguration carried historical significance for the development of Muhammadiyah abroad.
“Klang Lama is the first sub-branch in the world to be inaugurated by the Central Board of Muhammadiyah,” he said.
He urged the sub-branch leadership to maintain the organization’s existence and carry out their responsibilities with full commitment. Organizational dedication, he said, must remain strong despite the demands of everyday work.
“Even when they are tired from work, they still think about the organization. So it is no surprise that these Bangladesa people, short for Bangsa Lamongan Desa, are known for spreading everywhere. Their enthusiasm is extraordinary,” he said.
Creativity as a Form of Dakwah
Also attending the ceremony was Danang Waskito, Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuala Lumpur. In his remarks, Danang praised the lively inauguration, which he said reflected the enthusiasm and creativity of Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah members in Malaysia.
“It is a sub-branch-level inauguration, but the celebration is extraordinary. Everytime there is a speech, there is always an accompanying song as the speaker comes onto the stage,” Danang said.
He viewed such creativity as a form of dakwah that can reach a broader audience. Danang also recalled his mother’s involvement in ‘Aisyiyah activities.
“This is proof of ‘Aisyiyah’s active role in carrying out dakwah creatively. My mother was also an active member of ‘Aisyiyah and used to perform samroh rebana,” he recalled.
Danang further reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing services and protection to Indonesian citizens in Malaysia. The country’s vast territory, he said, presents a challenge for the Indonesian Embassy in reaching all Indonesian citizens across Malaysia.
In this context, he expressed hope that PRIM and PRIA could become partners of the embassy in reaching Indonesian communities.
“PRIM and PRIA can become the eyes, ears and hands of the Indonesian Embassy. The embassy cannot reach every location scattered across Malaysia. Of course, the embassy is ready to coordinate and communicate with mass organizations regarding services and protection for Indonesian citizens and Indonesian migrant workers,” he said.
The inauguration was also witnessed by Tamhid Mashudi, Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Provincial Board of East Java, and Zaenal Arifin, Vice Secretary of the East Java Muhammadiyah Provincial Board.
