Shariah Economy Must Go Beyond Statistics
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The inauguration of the MES Central Board for the 1447-1452 Hijri period has provided an opportunity for the organisation to consolidate efforts to strengthen the national Shariah economic ecosystem, ensuring it delivers tangible benefits beyond mere statistical growth.
At the inauguration held in Jakarta on Sunday (24 May 2026), MES Central Board Advisory Council Chairman Ma’ruf Amin stated that Indonesia’s Shariah economy has a bright future with ample growth potential.
“Today, I say that the Shariah economy has a bright future, not a dark one,” Ma’ruf said in a press statement on Sunday (24 May 2026).
He noted that the Shariah economy contributes approximately 30 to 40 per cent to the national economy. Despite Indonesia currently ranking third globally, he said strategies are needed for the country to attain the top position worldwide.
“Sharia serves as a guide to ensure innovations proceed smoothly, bringing justice and preventing harm to the people,” he added.
In line with this, MES Central Board General Chairman Rosan Roeslani reminded the new leadership to implement programmes that truly benefit the public.
“Thoughts, discussions, visions, and missions without implementation are mere illusions,” Roeslani said.
“The Shariah economy must not only be large in numbers but also have real impact,” he continued.
Therefore, Roeslani urged all board members to prioritise the benefits of programmes for the public as the main basis for organisational decisions.
“During every board meeting, I hope we consistently highlight and confirm whether the programme will genuinely benefit all Indonesian citizens,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, the Sharia Economic Leaders Forum (SELF) 2026, held alongside the MES Central Board inauguration, also discussed strategies to strengthen the national Shariah economy.
The forum’s theme was “Shariah Economy Beyond Finance: Orchestrating Regional Leadership and Halal Industries to Accelerate Indonesia’s Shariah Economic Ecosystem.”