IPB University Lecturer Offers Waqf Forest Social Innovation to Muhammadiyah Leaders in West Sumatra
IPB University lecturers continue to contribute to the development of sustainability-based economic models. In the Forest Utilization Workshop organized by the Environmental Assembly (MLH) of the Muhammadiyah Central Leadership in Padang, Dr Khalifah Muhammad Ali, lecturer at the Department of Sharia Economics, Faculty of Economics and Management (FEM), was the first presenter.
In a presentation entitled “Model and Strategy of Forest Community Empowerment: The Case of Bogor Waqf Forest”, Dr Khalifah socialized the theory and practice of waqf forest management to Muhammadiyah (PWM) Regional Leaders throughout West Sumatra, as well as various other stakeholders, including the Forestry Service, Environmental Service, academics, and waqf forest researchers.
As an academic who also manages the Bogor Waqf Forest, Dr Khalifah emphasized that the concept of waqf forest is a social innovation that combines environmental conservation with sharia-based economic empowerment.
In his presentation, he shared first-hand experiences on how waqf forests can be a sustainable solution for the surrounding community, while also serving as a model for replication in various regions.
“The Bogor Waqf Forest may only be a small example, but we continue to improve it. Hopefully, this experience can inspire Muhammadiyah West Sumatra to replicate similar models in their regions. Nothing is too small to make a difference!” said Dr Khalifah with optimism.
Workshop participants consisting of Muhammadiyah leaders throughout West Sumatra welcomed this idea enthusiastically. They believe that Muhammadiyah has the capacity to accelerate the replication of waqf forests, especially in West Sumatra as part of the productive waqf-based Islamic ecology movement.
In his speech, the Chairman of MLH PP Muhammadiyah, M Azrul Tanjung, SE, MSi, emphasized that this workshop aims to formulate waqf management that not only impacts the environment, but also has economic benefits for the community.
Similarly, Buya Bachtiar, Chairman of Muhammadiyah West Sumatra, emphasized that waqf management must be directed to the benefit of the people in social, economic, and ecological aspects.
IPB University lecturers through this workshop not only delivered theory, but also shared real experiences in the implementation of waqf-based social forestry.
It is hoped that the synergy between academics, community organizations, and the government can continue to be strengthened to create more waqf forests as a solution to environmental sustainability and economic empowerment. (*/Rz) (IAAS/RUM)
