Muhammadiyah is a prominent Islamic societal organization in Indonesia. This organization has played a significant role in Indonesian politics since before Independence Day by promoting Islamic values such as equality (Tawazun), tolerance (Tasamuh), and reformation (Islah) in the development of the Republic of Indonesia. Since before Independence Day, Muhammadiyah and its followers have actively participated in the political system, playing a significant role in the formation of the state by being members of BPUPKI and PPKI. They have also been involved in political activities related to religious affairs, including contributing to the founding of the Ministry of Religion.
Muhammadiyah was formed in Yogyakarta on November 18 1912 by Kyai Haji Ahmad Dahlan. He was a highly skilled Islamic cleric who underwent extensive studies in Mecca and held a position as a court official in the Sultanate of Yogyakarta. This organization was founded as a forward-thinking socio-religious organization with the aim of adapting Islam to be in line with the needs of Indonesian society in accordance with current developments.
Muhammadiyah also expanded its influence both in Indonesia and abroad, including Australia and Spain. Muhammadiyah is renowned for its extensive philanthropic efforts in the fields of education, health, social welfare, and religious da'wah, all aimed at serving society. Apart from that, Muhammadiyah has made a significant contribution to the world of Indonesian politics through its members. This is proven by President Soeharto's statement that he considers himself a Muhammadiyah product because he studied at Muhammadiyah Wonogiri Middle School. The first President of the Republic of Indonesia, Ir. Soekarno was officially recognized as a member and administrator of Muhammadiyah in 1933. General Sudirman, Ir. Djuanda, and Dr. Soetomo, who was a prominent figure, were also associated with Muhammadiyah and played an important role in Indonesia's struggle for independence.
The role played by Muhammadiyah in the establishment of Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs was crucial for the nation's political progress. Notably, Muhammadiyah leaders played a significant role in establishing the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Banyumas Regency during the era of Parliamentary Democracy. Muhammadiyah was a prominent constituent of the Masyumi party between 1950 and 1958, with other organizations such as Nahdatul Ulama (NU), Islamic Union (Persis), and Islamic Union (PUI). In addition, the central Muhammadiyah organization has a special membership status within the Masyumi party. Members of Muhammadiyah in Banyumas have joined Masyumi. This demonstrates Muhammadiyah's dedication to making substantial contributions at both the national and state levels, especially in the realm of politics. Muhammadiyah figures K.H. Dardiri and S. Notosuwiryo, who were part of the Islamic faction's leadership in the Indonesian national committee, demonstrated this by suggesting to the KNIP that the Ministry of Religion be established. Due to the predominantly Muslim population in Indonesia, two prominent figures from the Muhammadiyah organization have put forth a proposal to establish a Ministry of Religion, citing its necessity. Therefore, there is a requirement for an authoritative authority to oversee matters such as Hajj, marriage, zakat, and other related affairs. The idea was implemented at a plenary meeting of the Islamic faction of the Banyumas national committee. The Committee endorsed the government plan during the meeting. Subsequently, the Banyumas KNIP dispatched K.H. Dardiri and Haji Soleh Su'aidy to Jakarta with the purpose of presenting a proposal to the central KNIP no later than 25 November 1945.
On November 11, KH. Abu Dardiri and Haji Soleh Su'aidy held a meeting with several KNIP national officials, just four days before the BPKNIP Summit. at that time, KH. Abu Dardiri and Haji Soleh Su'aidy presented the proposal establishment of religious affairs by KNI Banyumas. Several KNIP members support the KNI Banyumas plan. Mohammad Natsir, Dr. Muwardi, Dr. Marzuki Mahdi, and M. Kartosudarmo provided their support to the Ministry of Religion which is under KNIP. In the end, on November 25, the BPKNIP session changed the KNI Banyumas' view into a unanimous decision for the government. Next, KNIP submitted the proposal to the government. President Soekarno officially established the Indonesian Ministry of Religion on January 3, 1946. H. M. Rasyidi served as the first minister of religion.
Through the establishment of Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs, it is evident that Muhammadiyah has effectively employed Islamic principles in the political realm of Indonesia, particularly in its efforts to establish this religious ministry. The initial value is Tawazun. By implementing the concept of Tawazun, the Muhammadiyah organization places significant emphasis on achieving a harmonious balance between all areas of life, including the spiritual, material, and worldly and hereafter domains. The establishment of the Ministry of Religion, influenced by influential leaders from Muhammadiyah, namely K.H. Dardiri and S. Notosuwiryo, is expected to greatly benefit the Indonesian community in various aspects, including matters related to worship and charitable contributions.
The second value is Tasamuh, which refers to the concept of tolerance. Muhammadiyah promotes tolerance and mutual understanding among individuals of diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds in Indonesia, recognizing the significance of unity and diversity within the country's society. The founding of the Ministry of Religion by Muhammadiyah cadres demonstrates their dominance in the political sphere. This influence can help prevent and reduce intolerant attitudes and disputes between religious communities in Indonesia.
Lastly, the use value of Islah refers to the reform process. Muhammadiyah is dedicated to the reform and modernization of Islamic practices, with the aim of adapting Islam to the needs of today's society. The Ministry of Religion is able to conduct research and implement policies based on fundamental religious books such as the Al-Quran and Sunnah, especially since this will be very helpful for the Islamic community in Indonesia. This policy aims to support religious communities in accordance with existing conditions.
      In conclusion, Muhammadiyah has played an important role in Indonesian politics since before Independence Day, supporting Islamic principles such as equality (Tawazun), tolerance (Tasamuh), and reformation (Islah). Kyai Haji Ahmad Dahlan created the organization in 1912, and it has grown in both domestic and international importance since then. Muhammadiyah has made significant contributions to Indonesian politics through its members, including President Soeharto and well-known leaders like Ir. Soekarno, General Sudirman, and Dr. Soetomo. The organization played an important part in the foundation of Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs, with figures such as K.H. Dardiri and S. Notosuwiryo proposing the ministry's creation. The Ministry of Religion demonstrates Muhammadiyah's dedication to Islamic ideals, particularly Tawazun, Tasamuh, and Islah. These ideals have helped to promote harmony and unity in Indonesian society, as well as the growth of the country's religious affairs.
