MUHAMMADIYAH.ID, JAKARTA – Through Majlis of Library and Information of Faculty of Political and Social Science of Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarata (UMJ), the central Board of Muhammadiyah officially launched Institute of Journalist Competency Test on Monday (5/10).

General Chairman of the Central Board of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir appreciated the breakthrough.

Haedar stated that having dakwah missions of amar makruf nahi munkar Muhamadiyah should concern with the development of this digital era and political dominance which can drive public opinions.

“Muhammadiyah has played roles in press publication and science,” declared Haedar. He also mentioned the establishment of Suara Muhammadiyah in 1915 which had used the Indonesian language prior to Youth Congress 1928.

“The history inspires us to represent the press with better articulation, expressions, and new approaches. Mass media need to have transformational and sustainable management,” conveyed Haedar.

In addition, Haedar told his experience as a journalist in 1985-1995. He contended that the institute should later focus on morals, ethics, and new narratives which do not always about politics.

“Journalism is about not only knowledge and skills but also a call, spirit, and soul within it. Journalists have strengths to be facilitators and mediators in virtual social relations that anything goes by themselves. Muhammadiyah has to present new perspectives in journalism bringing civilization values and universal humanitarian principles,” he asserted.

“Science and journalism should exist. Muhammadiyah need to be present with bayani, burhani, and irfani common senses. Thus, humanitarian orientation and national perspectives can be inclusive. The institute establishment is a novel positive and essential step of Muhammadiyah to confront the future,” expressed Haedar.