JAKARTA - Muhammadiyah cadre and National Mandate Party (PAN) politician Saleh Partaonan Daulay, feels deep sorrow over the death of Prof Dr H Ahmad Syafii Maarif or Buya Syafii.
"He has a special place in my heart. It is not an exaggeration to say that he is my parent, my teacher, mentor and my senior at Muhammadiyah," Saleh told VOI, Friday, May 27.
Saleh admitted that he interacted a lot with Buya Syafii when the great cleric was still the general chairman of PP Muhammadiyah. Saleh claimed to have been trusted by Buya to be the program director at the Ma'arif Institute when he was the general chairman of PP Pemuda Muhammadiyah.
"He often gives advice. His advice is always sharp, genuine and critical. The direction is how we, the younger generation, have a high sensitivity to social, economic, political dynamics in Indonesia," said Saleh.
Saleh last communicated with Buya Syafii before entering the hospital. At that time, said Saleh, Buya asked him to buy the book 'HAMKA & ISLAM: Cosmopolitan Reform in the Malay World'.
Apart from being in line with the issue of the Malay world which is also the theme of Saleh's research, Buya also wants him to be able to ground Hamka's profile in politics and social life. In fact, Saleh said, Buya advised him not to change parties in PAN.
"That's Buya. Never forgets us. Always sincere in giving advice. In the past, when many people changed parties, he told me. You don't jump around. Once in PAN, you still have to be in PAN. signifies an attitude of endless pragmatism," explained the chairman of the PAN faction in the DPR.
"Now he has passed away. Many legacies have been left behind. Many written works have been inscribed. Many people have reviewed his thoughts in the form of theses, theses, and even dissertations. Not only domestically, but also abroad. This shows international recognition from the academic world for his contribution to Indonesia," Saleh continued.
In addition, Saleh said Buya Syafii was a very respected figure. Not infrequently, politicians come specifically to ask for advice.
"As usual, Buya will deliver advice in a firm, straightforward and dignified manner. He does not give advice to expect anything. Everything is always done with sincerity," he said.
This sincere attitude, admitted Saleh, has been imprinted for a long time because of the life experiences he has lived. Buya considers that what he has achieved today is far from what he had imagined before because it was very difficult.
"To the extent that he once said something like this, 'If it wasn't for the mercy of the waves, then it would be impossible for me to crash onto the shore'.
Saleh added, Buya's love for this nation is part of his gratitude. Buya feels that various injustices, inequalities, conflicts and violence must end.
"Indonesia must be a home for all. There should be no discrimination. No one should be left behind. Everyone must be treated equally, equally and fairly," said Saleh remembering Buya Syafii's message.
Saleh believes that all contributions of Buya Syafii's thoughts and activities so far will become good deeds.
"We will miss you Buya. A lot of your work and advice still needs to be grounded. Goodbye and may Allah bless you and forgive you," said Saleh.
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