HMJ PAI Unismuh Studies the Thoughts of Cak Nur and Buya Syafi'i Ma'arif

UNISMUH.AC.ID, MAKASSAR – The Student Association of the Islamic Education Department (HMJ PAI) of the Faculty of Islamic Studies, Muhammadiyah University of Makassar (Unismuh), held a dialogue on the thoughts of Nurcholish Madjid and Buya Syafi'i Ma'arif. Titled "Refining Thoughts: Preserving Diversity within the Indonesian Context," the event was held at Caffee Bundu', Jl. Talasalapang, Makassar, on Saturday, January 13, 2024.

The Chairman of HMJ PAI Unismuh, Faturrahman, opened the dialogue by highlighting the nickname "Chicago Warriors" given by Abdurrahman Wahid to Amin Rais, Nurcholish Madjid, and Buya Syafi'i Ma'arif. Faturrahman emphasized that discussing both figures is a way to celebrate their thoughts and dedication to the community and the nation.

CEO Boetta Ilmoe, Bantaeng Knowledge House, Sulhan Yusuf, expressed the importance of Cak Nur's understanding of Islam as an inclusive and open teaching towards differences. According to Sulhan, Cak Nur's thoughts are relevant as reading material in the midst of political identity and declining inter-religious tolerance at present.

Director of the Profetic Institute, Asratillah, further highlighted the thoughts of Buya Syafi'i Ma'arif in his presentation. He appreciated the organization of the discussion during this politically sensitive year as a platform to discuss the thoughts of inspiring figures in the nation. "Their thoughts are not too different, even though their backgrounds differ between NU and Muhammadiyah," said Asratillah.

The dialogue was interactive with many exchanges of thoughts and rich discussions.