London, United Kingdom – Muhammadiyah United Kingdom proudly held Baitul Arqam 2024, a historic event that strengthened the synergy between Muhammadiyah Special Branches (PCIM) and ‘Aisyiyah Special Branches (PCIA) in Great Britain and Ireland for the 2023-2025 service period. The two-day event became an important platform for the Muhammadiyah community in the UK to share knowledge, experience, and build networks.
The first day of Baitul Arqam was held at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) London. The event was officially opened by Mrs. Sahadatun Donatirin, Deputy Indonesian Ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. In her speech, she expressed her deep appreciation for the initiative of PCIM and PCIA in organizing this activity, which she considered as an important step to advance the Indonesian community in the UK.
Furthermore, the Chairperson of PCIM UK, Dyah Prawesti, and Vice Chairperson of PCIA UK, Nita Yalina, also gave warm remarks emphasizing the importance of collaboration and unity of vision in advancing Muhammadiyah values in the international sphere.
This Baitul Arqam was made special by the presence of the General Secretary of Muhammadiyah Central Leadership, Prof. Dr. Abdul Mu’ti, M.Ed., who delivered the keynote speech. He discussed strategic themes related to the role of Muhammadiyah in the global context, as well as the importance of education and da’wah as the main pillars of this movement.
Another speaker, Muhammad Rofiq Muzakir, Lc, MA, PhD, provided in-depth insight into leadership development that is relevant to the challenges of the times. Meanwhile, an online session from the leadership of PP ‘Aisyiyah added to the richness of the discussion with a new perspective on the role of women in da’wah and organizations delivered by Dr. Maesyaroh, MA and Lailatis Syarifah, Lc, MA.
Closing the first day, Ridho Dimas L and Zia Alhafidh from the PCIM UK Board guided organizational and leadership activities through interactive games that aroused the spirit of collaboration among participants.
On the second day, the activities continued at the Indonesian Mosque IIC London. Dr. Hilaal, an Indonesian preacher who has lived in the UK, gave an inspiring talk that touched on aspects of spirituality and diversity in the diaspora.
The event ended with a Follow-up Plan meeting, led by PCIM UK Chairperson, Dyah Prawesti. This discussion focused on the plans and targets of the work program to be achieved by PCIM UK, as a commitment to continue contributing to the progress of the people and the nation.
The event was attended by around 50 participants from various cities in the UK, such as Leeds, Dundee, Edinburgh, Lancaster, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, Bristol, and London. The majority of the participants were Indonesian diaspora who have lived in the UK for decades, as well as master and doctoral students from various well-known universities in the UK. High enthusiasm was seen throughout the event, especially in the evocative and encouraging discussions.
Baitul Arqam Muhammadiyah United Kingdom 2024 succeeded in bringing the community together in the spirit of learning and sharing. This activity not only strengthened the network between members, but also emphasized Muhammadiyah’s commitment to continue to play an active role in the international arena. With a spirit of togetherness and a clear vision, Muhammadiyah in the UK is ready to move forward, answering the challenges of the times with optimism and courage.
Contributor: R Dimas L
PCIM UK Organization Empowerment & Cooperation Council
