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| The portrait of Dr. Muhammad Najib, M. Sc., Indonesia’s Ambassador to Spain. (Photo: Istimewa) |
Muhammadiyah has vast potential to develop its Islamic education institutions in Europe, specifically in Spain, as said by Indonesia's Ambassador to Spain, Dr. Muhammad Najib, M. Sc., at the Enrichment Agenda for Islamic and Muhammadiyah Insights for Islamic and Muhammadiyah Studies lecturers of the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM).
On the agenda held on May 17, Najib said Muhammadiyah is the world's most extensive and coordinated Islamic organization. It can be the initial benchmark to attract Muslims living in Spain. Moreover, their enthusiasm for Islam is incredible.
"Muhammadiyah is wide; its vision is also objective. So it's time for its association to spread wings in the lands of Europe, especially in Spain," said Najib.
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He believes Spain is a suitable place for Muhammadiyah to spread its wings since a large group of scholars is studying Islamic history there. Furthermore, history has recorded Islam's heyday when it ruled Andalusia, Spain, during the Abbasid era of the 7th to 10th centuries AD. At that same time, Islam could also generate many figures producing various works, such as philosophy, astronomy, mathematics, and medicine.
Another reason Spain is ideal is the number of Indonesians having a family. They often need Islamic education for their children. Mainly, Spain only provides less since the Muslim population there is minor.
"Then, in my opinion, Muhammadiyah can answer the needs of our fellow Muslims. With abundant human resources and charity, I believe Muhammadiyah can do them well," added Najib.
Last but not least, he advised students and lecturers in Indonesia, including at UMM, not to feel bored studying Islam intensely and have the spirit of continuing education overseas since it can open their insight and improve their experience of becoming the minority.
"Indonesian students and lecturers must have a dream of studying abroad. With that said, we can know their perspective and how it feels to be the minority. Maybe, we can also observe how Islam is studied in other countries," ended he. (imh/faq/wil)
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