The Role of Islamic Organizations and the Politics of Pandemic in Indonesia: The Case of Muhammadiyah (2020–2021)

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic occurred in Indonesia in early 2020, but the government (state) did not immediately respond to it through relevant policies. As a consequence, in 2021 there was an explosion of cases. In July 2021, for example, the number of cases and deaths from COVID-19 in Indonesia was the highest compared with India and Brazil. The Indonesian government has limitations in fighting the pandemic, and, therefore, the involvement of nonstate entities is important. This study focuses on the strategic role of Muhammadiyah as a mainstream Islamic organization representing the realm of civil society participating in the response to COVID-19. Muhammadiyah is engaged in health, education, and community empowerment and is actively participating through its many hospitals, educational institutions, and volunteers. The various programs are coordinated by the Muhammadiyah COVID-19 Command Center (MCCC). This study looks at how independent associations in Indonesia assist the state in handling the COVID-19 pandemic.