Din Syamsuddin Warns Muslims Against Division Over Religious and Political Differences
Former Muhammadiyah chairman Din Syamsuddin delivered a message on unity among Muslims, urging that political and organisational differences should not lead to division within the Islamic community.
He made the remarks during his Eid al-Adha sermon at Al-Azhar Grand Mosque in South Jakarta, noting Indonesia’s numerous Islamic organisations and the importance of maintaining unity.
“Let us not fall into disunity simply because of organisational differences, religious interpretations, or political aspirations,” Din stated at the mosque on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.
He warned that conflict would only lead to failure for the Muslim community, citing the Quran to emphasise that internal strife erodes the community’s dignity and strength.
“Do not conflict or quarrel, for you will fail and lose the prestige and strength of being Muslims,” he said.
Din highlighted Indonesia’s status as the world’s largest Muslim population by number, but stressed this does not equate to quality across various sectors.
“The Muslim community in Indonesia currently faces a major issue: a gap between quantity and quality. A large population, yet lacking in quality,” he explained.
He noted Muslims still lag in social, political, and economic aspects, with economic marginalisation being particularly evident.
“We are still lagging in various aspects of life, socially, economically, and politically,” he added.
“If we are honest, in national life, Muslims are not playing a significant role, not determining outcomes, and are even marginalised, especially in the economy,” he continued.
Addressing societal differences, Din called for tolerance and upholding brotherhood.
“When dealing with non-Muslims, Islam clearly states:”Lakum dinukum waliyadin” – yours is your religion, mine is mine,” he said.
“But when dealing with fellow Muslims, regardless of ethnicity, organisation, religious school, or political aspirations, we say:”Lakum ra’yukum wa li ra’yi” – yours is your opinion, mine is mine. Behind this lies the truth that we are brothers in faith and humanity,” he added.
Din urged all Muslims to rise and contribute to national progress, stressing their responsibility to advance Indonesia and free it from wrongdoing to realise the founders’ vision.
“If past heroes, including scholars and leaders, sacrificed for the beloved nation, now is the time for Muslims to sacrifice for the nation’s progress,” he concluded.