Melawan Lupa - Kisah Keteladanan Pemimpin Muhammadiyah Sekaligus Guru Soeharto

Summary

This video script highlights the life and legacy of Kyai Haji AR Fachruddin, a revered leader of Muhammadiyah in Indonesia. Born in 1916, Fachruddin rose to prominence as a humble, wise, and charismatic religious leader who served as the longest-standing chairman of Muhammadiyah from 1968 to 1990. Known for his simplicity, effective communication, and diplomacy, he navigated the complexities of Indonesian politics, maintaining strong relationships with figures like President Soeharto. His leadership style fostered reconciliation and peace, and he remains an iconic figure in Islamic leadership and social reform in Indonesia.

Takeaways

• 😀 Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin was a highly respected and loved figure in Indonesia's Islamic organizations, particularly Muhammadiyah, where he served as chairman for over two decades.
• 😀 Born on February 14, 1916, in Yogyakarta, AR Fachrudin grew up in a religious and scholarly family, which influenced his deep dedication to Islam.
• 😀 Despite financial struggles and multiple school transfers, AR Fachrudin continued his education and became a self-taught scholar, teaching in various places across Sumatra.
• 😀 Known for his simplicity and humility, AR Fachrudin was admired for his non-materialistic lifestyle, even when leading one of Indonesia's largest Islamic organizations.
• 😀 AR Fachrudin became the chairman of Muhammadiyah in 1968, but was known for his reluctance to seek power, always prioritizing the organization and its mission over personal gain.
• 😀 Throughout his leadership, he maintained a close and respectful relationship with national leaders, including President Soeharto, whom he diplomatically advised on several occasions.
• 😀 He advocated for reconciliation and diplomatic approaches, which helped resolve internal conflicts within Muhammadiyah, particularly during Indonesia's political climate in the 1980s.
• 😀 AR Fachrudin was known for his 'sudden simplicity' in public and private life, rejecting gifts and money for his leadership role, even when offered funds for his work.
• 😀 Despite his national influence, AR Fachrudin continued his spiritual and religious duties, regularly engaging in Islamic outreach and religious discourses, fostering unity across Indonesia's diverse religious groups.
• 😀 His leadership also saw pivotal moments like the acceptance of Pancasila as the sole foundation for political ideology in Indonesia, a stance that brought peace to Muhammadiyah amid national political pressures.
• 😀 AR Fachrudin passed away on March 17, 1995, after a prolonged illness, and his death was marked by national honors, highlighting his contributions to Muhammadiyah, Indonesian Islam, and national unity.

Q & A

What were the main values that Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin exemplified throughout his life?

Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin exemplified values of humility, simplicity, wisdom, and dedication to service. He led a modest life despite his high position and was known for his genuine character, humility, and commitment to both religious education and community welfare.

How did Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin contribute to Muhammadiyah?

Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin served as the Chairman of Muhammadiyah from 1968 to 1990, leading the organization through a period of political turbulence. He contributed to strengthening Muhammadiyah’s position, promoting Islamic education, and maintaining unity within the organization, particularly through his diplomatic skills.

What challenges did Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin face during his early life?

He faced significant financial hardships, which led him to change schools multiple times. He also experienced the decline of his family's business, forcing him to move and continue his education under challenging circumstances.

How did Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin's leadership style differ from others in his time?

His leadership style was characterized by simplicity, humility, and diplomacy. Despite being a key figure in one of Indonesia's largest Islamic organizations, he lived modestly and communicated complex issues in simple, relatable terms, earning respect from both religious leaders and political figures.

What was the significance of his relationship with President Soeharto?

Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin had a close and respectful relationship with President Soeharto, which allowed him to mediate and influence key political decisions. His diplomatic skills were crucial during sensitive moments, such as the acceptance of Pancasila as the sole ideology of the state by Muhammadiyah.

How did Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin approach the issue of Pancasila as the sole state ideology?

During the 1980s, when Pancasila was promoted as the sole ideology, Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin skillfully navigated the issue by introducing the metaphor of 'political helmets,' illustrating that accepting Pancasila was like wearing a helmet for safety—a necessary but not ideological compromise.

Why did Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin resign as the Chairman of Muhammadiyah in 1990?

He resigned after 22 years of leadership due to declining health and the belief that new leadership was ready to take over. He supported Kyai Haji Azhar Basyir as his successor, prioritizing the organization’s continued growth and leadership transition.

What was Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin's approach to financial matters?

Despite his leadership position, Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin lived simply and was known for avoiding financial gain from his role. He even sold gasoline at his home to support his family, emphasizing the importance of humility and financial self-reliance.

How did Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin handle criticisms of the government during his leadership?

He used his diplomatic communication skills to express his views cautiously. For example, he subtly suggested that President Soeharto should step down through a cultural approach, using polite language and respecting the sensitivities of the time.

What was the legacy of Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin after his passing in 1995?

Kyai Haji AR Fachrudin left behind a lasting legacy of humility, effective leadership, and diplomacy. His contributions to Muhammadiyah and Indonesia’s religious landscape are still felt today, with his teachings and values continuing to inspire future generations of leaders.