MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – President Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir emphasized the importance of turning the newly signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) and Muhammadiyah into concrete action that benefits the wider Muslim community.
Speaking at the Muhammadiyah headquarters, Yogyakarta on Thursday, July 31, Haedar said the agreement on institutional cooperation should go beyond a ceremonial signing. He stressed that funds meant for the community should be used wisely and with clear impact.
“We hope these public funds can be used in a more focused and effective way to truly empower the ummah. If they are meant for the people, they must reach them. To do that, we need the right programs that really hit the target,” said Haedar.
Haedar pointed out that most Muslims in Indonesia still live in economic hardship, which affects other aspects of life, including their social, political, and cultural conditions. This, he said, calls for leaders, especially within Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah, to be more grounded and responsive.
“Our way of thinking as leaders of the ummah, whether in Muhammadiyah or ‘Aisyiyah, should reflect that reality. We cannot afford to be elitist. An elitist mindset only creates distance between us and the people. These issues cannot just be talked about. They require real and practical solutions,” said Haedar.
Haedar also reminded that community funds from institutions like BPKH and zakat agencies should be managed with the principle of taqdimul aham minal muhim, prioritizing what truly matters. This, he said, would ensure funds are not wasted on activities that do not meet real needs.
Haedar called for a revival of Muhammadiyah tradition of community-based programs, based on fikih Al-Ma’un, a principle that emphasizes helping the poor and marginalized through responsible governance.
“We need to revitalize community-based programs that have policies and directions aligned with real needs. That has always been the character of Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah,” said Haedar.
Haedar mentioned that, after Indonesia’s reform era, Muhammadiyah experienced a period that its programs often appeared to serve the community but were too short-term or unfocused. Haedar encouraged leaders to strengthen grassroots institutions and design long-term programs that can reach and uplift local communities. The programs need to be reviewed, sharpened, and accelerated to see if they are truly making an impact and running as planned.
Haedar also reminded Muhammadiyah leaders to stay involved in the process, not just in public appearances but in ensuring programs are well-executed on the ground.
“It’s the leaders’ duty to drive this process forward. We cannot just let things run on their own. There needs to be a balance between being visible in public and actually steering the work behind the scenes. Spending too much time in the spotlight can create the illusion of progress, even when there is not any real advancement,” said Haedar.
