EN.MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, SUKOHARJO — Muchamad Arifin, Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Central Board’s Community Dakwah Department, emphasized the importance of applying the values of Islam wasathiyah in developing universal dakwah amid Indonesia’s diverse society.
Arifin made the remarks as the keynote speaker at the National Muhammadiyah Preacher Training (PM3). The event was organized by the Branch Board of Muhammadiyah University Student Association in Sukoharjo, on Friday (18/9).
Held under the theme “Wasathiyah and Universal Dakwah,” the training provided a platform to strengthen the knowledge and capacity of young Muhammadiyah muballighs as they navigate the challenges of conducting dakwah in a pluralistic society.
In his presentation, Arifin noted that Indonesia is a country rich in diversity. Spanning religion, ethnicity, culture, language, and social background. This reality calls for a dakwah approach that presents Islam wisely and enlightens people while respecting pluralism.
He said, Islam wasathiyah is highly relevant as a foundation for universal dakwah. Values of balance, justice, wisdom, and respect for others are essential principles for building communication that can be received by people from different walks of life.
“Islam wasathiyah is highly relevant to developing universal dakwah in Indonesia. Dakwah must be able to present Islam as a religion that enlightens, brings joy, and promotes the well-being of society as a whole,” he said.
He stressed that universal dakwah should not focus solely on delivering religious messages. It should also translate Islamic values into everyday life through social concern, community empowerment, and stronger bonds of solidarity.
Bringing Dakwah Closer to Society
According to Arifin, dakwah must be grounded in people’s everyday lives. Preachers are expected to understand social realities. They must also identify the needs of the community and develop communication approaches suited to the people they serve.
“Dakwah is not merely about conveying the truth. It is also about how that truth is conveyed wisely so that it can benefit people’s lives,” he said.
As digital technology continues to transform society, the spirit of dakwah wasathiyah must also be brought into the online world. Preachers need more than religious knowledge. They also need digital literacy to communicate accurate, calming, and responsible information amid the rapid flow of social media content.
Arifin expressed hope that young Muhammadiyah muballighs would become pioneers of a form of dakwah capable of bridging the physical and digital worlds. At the same time, they should present Islam as a moral force that preserves social unity and contributes to civilization.
“Dakwah must be present to empower, enlighten, and bring joy to society,” he stressed.
The National PM3 training is expected to strengthen the role of young Muhammadiyah muballighs in developing dakwah that is inclusive, contextual and relevant to the challenges of the times, while remaining rooted in Islamic values.
