How Hero Ahmad Dahlan Reformed Islam in Indonesia

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – The Islamic modernization movement spearheaded by Kiai Haji Ahmad Dahlan from Yogyakarta successfully brought about universal social change. By founding the Muhammadiyah organization on November 18, 1912, this national hero pioneered a dakwah approach rooted in rationality, open dialogue, and tangible humanitarian action.

Born Muhammad Darwis in Kauman, Yogyakarta, in 1868, he grew up in a devoutly religious environment before pursuing advanced religious studies in Mecca. According to Herry Mohammad’s book Tokoh-tokoh Islam yang Berpengaruh Abad 20 (Influential 20th-Century Islamic Figures), during his time in the Holy Land, he studied the teachings of prominent global reformers such as Jamaluddin al-Afghani and Muhammad Abduh, which later served as the foundation of his own thought.

Upon returning to his birthplace, Ahmad Dahlan initiated reforms by correcting the direction of the Qibla and advocating for widespread access to modern education. He realized this vision by establishing schools that combined general and religious sciences, open to all regardless of gender.

To expand the reach of his mission, he actively networked within various national organizations, including Budi Utomo, Jami'at Khair, and Sarekat Islam. This strategic move allowed his ideas of Islamic reform to gain traction among urban intellectuals.

His reformist philosophy focused on translating Quranic verses into practical good deeds. This was demonstrated through the establishment of public relief agencies, orphanages, and free healthcare facilities for the underprivileged.

The establishment of Muhammadiyah educational institutions across remote regions succeeded in bridging the social divide between urban and rural communities. In recognition of his major services and contributions to the nation, the Government of the Republic of Indonesia officially named Ahmad Dahlan a National Hero on December 27, 1961, under Presidential Decree No. 657 of 1961.

Although Ahmad Dahlan passed away on February 23, 1923, in Kauman, his legacy of dialogic thought and concrete works continues to flourish today. The values of openness and innovation he left behind serve as an inspiring example for modern civilization in managing social diversity.