MUHAMMADIYAH.ID, OXFORD – The Central Board of Muhammadiyah offers condolences on the passing of the third President of the Republic of Indonesia Prof. Dr. B. J. Habibie. May he have the best place from Allah.

General Chairman of the Central Board of Muhammadiyah stated that Habibie was the first president in the reform era and placed bases of democracy which became a milestone for Indonesia. Even though he was related to the New Order and was the closest person to Soeharto, Habibie became a stateman whose words were in line with his actions. He was an open book welcoming public critics elegantly.

“Habibie was a president, national figure, and aircraft expert. With his educational background in Germany, Indonesia had a new hope to be modern and developed. He was a moral and rational person who integrated sciences and technology relevant to this nation in this modern era,” conveyed Habibie, reached when he was in Oxford on Wednesday (11/9).

“Only few figures of this nation possess characters and perfect capability to be a stateman, visionary, and role model for youth generation across nations.

“May this nation learn from Pak Habibie,” wished Haedar.

Furthermore, in the context of Muslims, Habibie lifted dignity of modern Islam of Indonesia without losing inclusiveness in a pluralistic society.

“Habibie cared about excellent human resources who master technology and become role models. Elites and Muslims need to learn from him. He was an incredible figure honored by all parties due to his integrity and exemplary attitudes. We lose a great visionary Indonesian stateman,” expressed Haedar.