Vice Chancellor of UMAM Delivers Eid al-Adha Sermon in Auckland, New Zealand
Dr. H. Saidul Amin, MA., Vice Chancellor of Universiti Muhammadiyah Malaysia (UMAM), served as both imam and khatib during the Eid al-Adha prayer held on June 7, 2025, at the Mount Roskill War Memorial Hall in Auckland, New Zealand.
The event was organized by the Indonesian Muslim Community Association in Auckland (HUMIA) and was attended by more than a thousand worshippers, comprising members of the Indonesian diaspora and their families, as well as individuals from other nationalities.
In his sermon, Dr. Saidul Amin emphasized the importance of instilling strong Islamic faith (aqidah) within the family, especially in countries where Muslims are a minority, such as New Zealand. He stated that if Muslim families can become role models in their communities, Islam can emerge as a respected and guiding faith amid the moral decline affecting the global society, including in this country.
Dr. Saidul Amin also encouraged Indonesian students studying at various universities across New Zealand to actively engage in Islamic da’wah in Auckland and to prepare themselves to carry on the nation’s mission when they return home. “Fill your minds with knowledge, but strengthen your hearts with faith,” he urged.
HUMIA Chairperson Milky Sungkar stated that the observance of Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and other major Islamic celebrations are annual events aimed at strengthening Islamic identity and fostering brotherhood among the community. In addition to Indonesians, many attendees were foreign nationals married to Indonesian citizens.
Milky, who is also a Muhammadiyah cadre, acknowledged the significant challenges of da’wah in New Zealand. However, he affirmed that opportunities remain for Islam to be embraced as a spiritual alternative and a solution to the spiritual emptiness felt by many in the country. He expressed hope that Muhammadiyah would provide greater attention to this land situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, so that the light of Muhammadiyah continues to enlighten the universe.
Source: Suara Muhammadiyah