Minister supports Islamic cooperatives as economic pillar at national congress

Indonesia's Minister of Cooperatives, Ferry Juliantono, has voiced strong support for Islamic cooperatives, positioning them as a crucial pillar for the nation's economy and the Muslim community. Speaking at the 3rd National Congress of the Indonesian Islamic Cooperatives (IKOSINDO) in Bogor, Juliantono emphasized the government's backing for the resurgence of sharia-based cooperatives.

This endorsement provides a significant boost to the hundreds of participants at the congress, who are consolidating efforts to foster national economic independence. "May this National Congress be a forum to strengthen synergy and generate strategic ideas for the advancement of Islamic cooperatives in Indonesia. Let us together strengthen Islamic cooperatives as a pillar of the community's economy," stated Ferry.

The congress, held from June 23-24, 2026, carries the theme 'Strengthening Synergy, Professionalism, and Collaboration of Islamic Cooperatives in Facing Global Crisis and Driving Indonesia's Economic Independence.' IKOSINDO's acting chairman, Wawan Wikasno, highlighted the importance of holding the event near the capital to ensure the contributions of Islamic cooperatives are heard by central policymakers.

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May this National Congress be a forum to strengthen synergy and generate strategic ideas for the advancement of Islamic cooperatives in Indonesia. Let us together strengthen Islamic cooperatives as a pillar of the community's economy.

Wawan argued that conventional economic models should be balanced with the sharia system, which he believes is more equitable. He stressed that synergy and togetherness are fundamental in Islam for building economic strength. To realize an Islamic economy that benefits all, IKOSINDO advocates for robust collaboration among three key pillars: Islamic cooperatives, the government, and business actors. This initiative aims to implement Quranic principles ensuring wealth circulates beyond specific groups.

With the government's support, IKOSINDO is optimistic about the industry's optimal development within the next five to ten years. Increased legitimacy and recognition from the government are expected to open broader avenues for the welfare of Muslims across the archipelago. The national event drew 207 participants from various regions, including Sumatra, Kalimantan, and West Nusa Tenggara.

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In the perspective of Islam, synergy and togetherness are important foundations in building the economic strength of the community. Islam encourages its people to synergize, because the hand of Allah is with the congregation.