Receives the UMY Awards 2026; Indonesian Imam in New York Deemed to Have a Strategic Role

Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) has conferred the prestigious UMY Awards 2026 on Muhammad Syamsi Ali, an Indonesian Muslim figure based in the United States, for his contributions to interfaith dialogue and strengthening the role of the Muslim community in America. The award was presented directly by UMY Rector Achmad Nurmadi during an Open Senate Session on Saturday, 23 May 2026, and was accompanied by the Head of the Selection Team Dr Suswanta and the Secretary of the Selection Team Prof Dr Suciati, with attendance from leaders of the Muhammadiyah Central Leadership.

Nurmadi said that the award was not given merely because Syamsi Ali is a Muhammadiyah cadre, but because of his contributions at a global level.