MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, SURAKARTA – Amidst growing global economic inequality, Muhammadiyah has called for a renewed focus on economic empowerment. Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Council for Higher Education, Research, and Development Prof. Bambang Setiaji highlighted that economic disparities have been a persistent issue in Indonesia, persisting from colonial times to the present day.
During a recent public lecture on “Independence and National Prosperity” conducted on Friday (August 9), Prof. Bambang noted the cyclical nature of economic dominance. He pointed out that while the United States and Western nations once held economic sway, China has emerged as a global economic powerhouse in recent decades or since led by Deng Xiaoping in 1975. The influx of inexpensive Chinese goods, often counterfeits, has led to deindustrialization in many countries, including Indonesia.
Prof. Bambang argued that Muhammadiyah, with its extensive network of educational institutions, is uniquely positioned to address these challenges.
“Muhammadiyah can experience a second miracle in the realm of economics,” said Prof. Bambang.
The organization’s initial success in education and healthcare, he suggested, can be replicated in the economic sphere.
He proposed a strategy involving Muhammadiyah schools and universities taking on a more active role in manufacturing. By assembling products within their institutions, Muhammadiyah can reduce reliance on imported goods and promote local production. This approach, he argued, would not only strengthen the Indonesian economy but also serve as a means of Islamic da’wa.
“If we don’t take this step, secular groups might,” Prof. Bambang warned. However, he cautioned that Muhammadiyah should remain vigilant against potential economic expansion from China, given the country’s large population and growing influence.
“Through Muhammadiyah schools, which are more flexible due to their private status, this is most feasible. It would be difficult to achieve this through public schools with their bureaucratic systems and corruption,” said Prof. Bambang.
