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| "Prof. Dr. Muhadjir Effendy, M.A.P., as the Central Leadership of Muhammadiyah, during the National Coordination Meeting (Rakornas) in the Economic Sector of Muhammadiyah Central Leadership (Photo: Lintang Public Relation)." |
In the midst of the rapid development of the business world, Muhammadiyah realizes the importance of mindset change, especially in seeing business as a means that is not only profitable, but also brings blessings. This was emphasized by the Chairman of Muhammadiyah Central Leadership Prof. Dr. Muhadjir Efendy, M.A.P. in the National Coordination Meeting (Rakornas) on Economics of Muhammadiyah Central Leadership. The agenda was held on February 26, 2025 at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM).
Muhammadiyah is one of the largest Islamic organizations in Indonesia and continues to push for change in various sectors, including the economy. According to him, many Muhammadiyah citizens still view the business world with skepticism, considering it “dirty” due to fraudulent practices and games in trade. Therefore, Muhammadiyah is determined to change this view and create business opportunities that prioritize ethics, honesty, and strong religious principles.
Read also : Muhammadiyah Launches Mentari Mart, a Mega Retail Business for the Community
Muhadjir said that the concept of religious capitalism is the main foundation in this economic development. Muhammadiyah wants to show that business does not have to be at odds with religious values. Capitalism built with strong religious ethics is not only profitable, but also brings goodness to all parties.
"With this approach, Muhammadiyah seeks to cultivate deeply religious capitalists who uphold social and moral responsibility in every business decision. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding that business must be conducted on a strong ethical foundation. 'Capitalism rooted in strong religious principles is not only profitable but also brings blessings to the community,'" he stated.
On the other hand, fostering the Muhammadiyah bureaucracy is also an important focus. To respond to the changing dynamics of the times, the organization realizes that rigid bureaucracy is no longer effective. Therefore, Muhammadiyah is committed to building a system that is more flexible and inclusive, able to adapt quickly to changes, and support the sustainability of businesses and enterprises run.
"One of the most interesting innovations is in business ownership. Muhammadiyah recognizes that a successful business should not only be owned by the organization's administrators but can also be shared with Muhammadiyah members or involved partners. This opens opportunities for more people to participate in the economy, not just on an individual level but collectively as well. This is a crucial step to ensure that Muhammadiyah's businesses grow inclusively and sustainably."
"Greater opportunities arise in the retail sector, which is expected to become the main distribution channel for high-quality products at more affordable prices. Through retail outlets, products from Muhammadiyah's MSMEs can be more accessible, providing a broader market reach for local products. Of course, the products sold must meet proper standards in terms of quality and packaging. If a product has not yet met these standards, the outlet is responsible for guiding and improving it to ensure better market acceptance."
"Then, we independently control the circulation of goods at Mentari Mart, without any external interference, and it is managed entirely by Muhammadiyah's administration," he explained.
For example, a business in the healthcare sector, Suryavena infusion, launched by Muhammadiyah, offers infusion products with the aim of improving the quality of healthcare in Indonesia. To ensure its distribution success, geospatial maps will be used to gauge the feasibility of potential areas to set up outlets, thereby reducing the risk of bankruptcy.
"In terms of empowerment, Muhammadiyah also focuses on education and training for the younger generation, particularly students from Muhammadiyah vocational schools specializing in commerce. They will be equipped with skills to become a competent workforce in various businesses established by Muhammadiyah, such as the soon-to-be-launched Mentari Mart outlets. 'I dream that social enterprises can become a top priority in our economy in the future, following state-owned enterprises (BUMN), private businesses, cooperatives, and social businesses,'" he stated.
"Through these strategic steps, Muhammadiyah strives to create a more inclusive, sustainable economy that brings prosperity to its members and society at large. Muhammadiyah continues to work not only to be a large organization but also to be a driving force for social and economic change that benefits both its community and Indonesia as a whole. With the spirit of religious capitalism, bureaucratic reform, and community empowerment, Muhammadiyah moves forward to build a better, more just, and blessed future." (nam/wil/ind)
