Muhammadiyah Strengthens Economic Independence, Develops Digital-Based Halal Gold Investment
Muhammadiyah continues to encourage the strengthening of economic independence through the development of various enterprises aimed at benefiting the community. Most recently, Muhammadiyah launched the Mentari Bayt Coin (MBC) and activated the MASKITA application, which provides gold-based services.
The General Chairman of the Central Leadership of Muhammadiyah, Prof. Haedar Nashir, stated that the development of MBC is part of Muhammadiyah’s efforts to build the economic strength of the community. He noted that economic independence is an ethos that must be continuously developed within the Muhammadiyah environment.
“These ventures are a pillar that we continue to pursue; various Muhammadiyah businesses in retail, as well as future ventures in mining, plantations, and so on, and housing, which we have already implemented. The spirit is one of economic independence,” said Haender during an interview at the Grand Launching of Mentari Bayt Coin at SM Tower Yogyakarta on Saturday (19/09/2026).
“We are launching these Mentari Bayt Coins to provide certainty and a sense of security for the public who wish to invest according to Sharia principles. The presence of MBC Gold outlets also strengthens our commitment to building a real and halal economy for the Ummah,” he added.
Haedar stated that economic strengthening is not only related to business activities but also to efforts to expand community welfare. He mentioned that the community should not only fight for political, legal, and life rights, but also possesses the right to achieve prosperity.
“The right to prosperity must be fought for by pioneering various business and economic ventures undertaken by Muhammadiyah. Our principle is for the people, for the community, and for the welfare of the Ummah,” he said.
Haedar explained that Muhammadiyah’s economic activities are built on several principles, ranging from halalan thayyiban (permissible and good) and public benefit to independence and collaboration. Consequently, Muhammadiyah is also opening cooperation with various parties, including banking institutions.
“Muhammadiyah’s orientation can be described as a socio-religious entrepreneur or a socio-religious corporation,” he said. “God willing, the results can be achieved quickly and widely.”
The launch of MBC and the activation of MASKITA was attended by the Central Leadership of Muhammadiyah, the Council of Higher Education, Research and Development (Diktilitbang) of PP Muhammadiyah, leaders of Muhammadiyah and ’Aisyiyah Universities (PTMA), and several Sharia banking partners.
The President Director of PT MBC, who is also the Rector of Muhammadiyah University of Purwokerto (UMP), Prof. Jebul Suroso, stated that MBC was developed as part of a mandate to build economic strength that can benefit the community.
According to Jebul, MBC provides several gold transaction schemes, ranging from direct purchases and gold instalments to gold savings. These services are aimed at building a Sharia economic ecosystem while creating opportunities for synergy with Muhammadiyah Business Entities (AUM).
“We are presenting gold that is ready. PT MBC has provided the products and is ready to serve direct sales, gold instalments, and gold savings. This activity is possible thanks to the initiative of Diktilitbang together with the Rectors of Muhammadiyah and ’Aisyiyah Universities,” he said.
During the launch, MBC also prepared several gold packages with specific characteristics. However, Jebul emphasised that the company’s development is not solely directed towards physical gold trading.
“This gold is not just physical. Moving forward, we are also heading towards digital-based development in accordance with the certifications we possess. PT MBC is our shared aspiration,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Council of Diktilitbang PP Muhammadiyah and also the President Commissioner of PT MBC, Prof. Bambang Setiaji, stated that MBC was formed to provide economic instruments that prioritise trust and transparency.
Bambang observed that the public needs investment options that are accountable amidst many offers that have the potential to be harmful. He noted that MBC products have obtained a halal fatwa.
“The MASKITA application is also developed to support long-term investment planning, including retirement preparation,” he said.