Let’s be honest: most of us, at some point, quietly wonder why Indonesia—with its enormous Muslim majority—isn’t already a global sharia financial powerhouse. I remember chatting with a friend about how even the most ambitious local entrepreneurs sometimes trip over invisible barriers, and it stuck with me. The answer isn’t as simple as pointing to one flaw; it’s about philosophy, mindset, and a few surprisingly overlooked habits (or even taboos) holding people back.
Section 1: The Philosophy Problem—How We Think About Wealth Matters
Philosophical Misunderstandings and Wealth Perception in Muslim Communities
How you think about wealth shapes how you pursue it. In Indonesia, many Muslims carry deep-rooted philosophical misunderstandings about wealth, often rooted in religious teachings but filtered through generations of misinterpretation. These misunderstandings are not just abstract ideas—they have real, measurable impacts on economic outcomes and the development of Islamic economics in Indonesia.
A common belief is that being wealthy is somehow less noble or even spiritually dangerous. This perception is often linked to concepts like zuhud (asceticism) and hubud dunya (attachment to worldly affairs). Many believe that true piety means rejecting material success, leading to a mindset where striving for wealth is seen as morally questionable. This is a significant philosophical misunderstanding of wealth in the context of Islamic teachings.
Misinterpreting Spiritual Ideals: Zuhud and Hubud Dunya
The concept of zuhud is frequently misunderstood. Instead of being about responsible detachment from greed and excess, it is often interpreted as a call to avoid wealth altogether. Similarly, hubud dunya is seen as inherently negative, when in reality, Islamic teachings warn against unhealthy attachment, not against wealth itself.
Dr. Muhammad Syafii Antonio, a respected scholar and practitioner of Islamic economics, points out that many Indonesian Muslims misread hadiths and Quranic verses about wealth. For example, the saying that "a rich person will enter paradise 500 years after a poor person" is often taken to mean that wealth is a spiritual liability. In reality, the message is about the responsibilities that come with wealth, not a condemnation of wealth itself.
The Prophet Muhammad’s Business Model: An Overlooked Example
One of the most overlooked aspects of Islamic history is the entrepreneurial life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Before his prophethood, he spent between 20 and 27 years as a merchant—longer than his 23 years as a prophet. Dr. Antonio notes that he has written an eight-volume encyclopedia, with one entire volume dedicated to the Prophet’s business career. Yet, this side of the Prophet’s life is rarely emphasized in religious education or community discussions.
The Prophet was not just a spiritual leader; he was also a successful entrepreneur, manager, and trader. His independence and business acumen allowed him to act with integrity and speak truth to power. As Dr. Antonio explains:
Kemandirian itu adalah syarat utama untuk bisa berbicara bebas. (Independence is the main requirement to be able to speak freely.)
This independence is crucial. If you rely on others for your livelihood, your ability to act ethically and advise others honestly is limited. The Prophet’s model demonstrates that financial independence and entrepreneurship are not only compatible with Islamic values—they are essential for making a positive impact.
Community Attitudes and Economic Development
These philosophical misunderstandings have a direct impact on the economic development of Muslim communities in Indonesia. When wealth is viewed with suspicion, fewer people pursue entrepreneurship, invest, or innovate. This is reflected in the data: Indonesia’s sharia finance market share is only about 7%, despite being home to the world’s largest Muslim population. The potential of the Islamic economy remains largely untapped, in part because of these negative associations with wealth.
- Misconception: It is more noble to be poor and spiritual than to pursue wealth responsibly.
- Reality: Islamic teachings encourage honest work, business, and financial independence as long as they are pursued ethically and with the intention of benefiting others.
The Prophet Muhammad himself said:
Khairukum anfa'ukum linnas (The best among you is the most beneficial to others).
And in another tradition:
A trader who is honest and trustworthy will be with the Prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs in paradise.
Islamic Economics Challenges in Indonesia
The challenge for Indonesian Muslims is to reclaim the true spirit of Islamic economic principles. This means correcting philosophical misunderstandings about wealth and recognizing that responsible wealth creation is not only allowed but encouraged in Islam. By looking to the Prophet Muhammad’s business model, communities can unlock the full potential of the Islamic economy and create a more prosperous future.
Section 2: Mindsets and Missed Chances—From Growth to Skill Gaps
Growth Mindset in Muslim Communities: The Foundation for Economic Empowerment
Indonesia is home to the world’s largest Muslim population, yet economic empowerment among Indonesian Muslims still faces significant barriers. One of the main reasons is the lack of a growth mindset within many Muslim communities. A growth mindset means believing that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This mindset is crucial for economic progress, but it is often overlooked or misunderstood.
Many still believe that focusing on the “dunya” (worldly matters) distracts from religious duties. However, as discussed in Islamic teachings, the real issue is not the world itself, but allowing it to block our connection with God. In fact, using worldly resources for good—such as supporting education, giving scholarships, or creating jobs—can be a path to both spiritual and material success. As one popular saying goes:
Kesuksesan itu tidak pernah final, dan kegagalan tidak pernah fatal (Success is never final, failure never fatal).
This quote reminds us that setbacks are not the end, and continuous self-improvement is always possible.
Upskilling: The Overlooked Key to Economic Mobility
In today’s Society 5.0 era, upskilling—especially in IT and digital skills—is no longer optional. It is essential for job security and advancement. Yet, upskilling is often neglected in many Muslim communities, especially among the youth. The sharia financial literacy index and certification rates remain low, even as the demand for digital skills grows rapidly.
Practical abilities like digital literacy, database management, and language certifications (such as TOEFL and IELTS) open real doors in the global workforce. For Gen Z, upskilling certifications are the basics for competing in a digital economy. Many free resources are available online, from Google certificates to open-source IT courses. Still, the motivation to pursue these opportunities often lags behind.
Personal Stories: Learning, Profiling, and Real-World Skills
Real-life examples show how practical skills and the right mindset can make a difference. For instance, learning about AI and digital tools is now a must. If you are preparing for a job interview, it’s not enough to just know your field—you need to research the company, the interviewer, and even their interests. This is called “profiling,” and it works not only in business but also in personal life.
One story shared in a podcast described how someone prepared to meet his future father-in-law by learning about his hobbies. Because the father-in-law liked football, the young man studied football facts and was able to connect instantly. The meeting went smoothly, and the proposal was accepted in just five minutes. This simple act of profiling and preparation shows the power of practical knowledge and adaptability.
Bridging the Skill Gap: What Needs to Change?
To move forward, Indonesian Muslims need to embrace a growth mindset and value self-development. Here are some actionable steps:
- Adopt a growth mindset: Believe that you can improve your skills and knowledge through effort and learning.
- Prioritize upskilling: Focus on IT, digital literacy, and certifications relevant to today’s job market.
- Seek out free and affordable resources: Many online platforms offer free courses and certifications in technology, finance, and language skills.
- Profile and prepare: Whether for job interviews or networking, research the people and organizations you want to connect with.
- Stay optimistic and resilient: Remember, “Success is never final, failure never fatal.” Setbacks are part of the journey.
Encouragement for Gen Z: The Future of Economic Empowerment
For Gen Z, the message is clear: economic empowerment for Indonesian Muslims depends on your willingness to learn and adapt. Take certifications in IT, database management, or digital marketing. Practice your English and aim for TOEFL or IELTS scores. These skills are not just for personal gain—they help uplift families, communities, and the nation.
Ultimately, the journey toward prosperity starts with a mindset shift and a commitment to continuous learning. The opportunities are there; it’s up to you to seize them.
Section 3: Community Impact—Why Economic Empowerment Goes Beyond the Individual
When you think about economic empowerment, it is easy to focus only on personal gain. However, in the context of Islamic teachings on wealth and charity, and especially within Indonesia’s Muslim-majority society, wealth is not just a private matter. It is a powerful tool for community upliftment, job creation, and national progress. The impact of economic development in Indonesia goes far beyond individual success—it shapes the future of families, neighborhoods, and the country as a whole.
Islamic principles encourage you to view wealth as a trust, not just a reward. When you achieve financial success, you are expected to use your resources responsibly, not only for yourself but also for your family, your community, and even the nation. This idea is deeply rooted in the practice of zakat (obligatory charity) and voluntary giving, which are central to the Islamic economy in Indonesia. By paying zakat and taxes, wealthy Muslims directly contribute to social welfare and government development programs. As one expert put it,
If Muslims in Indonesia became wealthier, Indonesia as a whole would be much richer—larger tax base, greater capacity for national development.
But the impact does not stop at financial contributions. When you use your wealth ethically, you create jobs and empower others. Job creation and community impact are among the most significant ways that economic empowerment benefits society. Every new business or project started by a successful Muslim entrepreneur can open up employment opportunities, reduce unemployment, and lower poverty rates. This ripple effect strengthens the social fabric, giving more people the chance to improve their lives and contribute to the nation’s growth.
This approach is not just about economics; it is also about spiritual and social fulfillment. In Islam, true success is measured not only by what you accumulate, but by how you use your blessings to help others. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged his followers to be productive, to use their time wisely, and to give back to the community. When you share your wealth—whether through zakat, charity, or by supporting local businesses—you are fulfilling both a religious obligation and a social responsibility. This creates a cycle of giving and gratitude that benefits everyone.
However, there are challenges. In a country as large and resource-rich as Indonesia, most Muslims still remain in the lower to middle-income brackets. This is not just a matter of opportunity, but also of mindset. Many people may not realize that being wealthy, when done in a halal (permissible) way, is not only allowed but encouraged in Islam—so long as it is accompanied by gratitude, patience, and humility. As discussed in recent conversations, the concept of kaya sabar (wealthy yet patient) reminds you to seek prosperity through ethical means, avoid showing off, and always remember the greater purpose of your success.
Changing mindsets is crucial. If Indonesian Muslims embrace a growth mindset, focusing on productivity, time management, and contribution, the benefits will multiply. Each person’s achievement can inspire others, creating a culture where economic empowerment is seen as a path to both personal and communal progress. This aligns perfectly with the goals of the Islamic economy in Indonesia: to foster sustainable growth, reduce inequality, and build a more just society.
In conclusion, economic empowerment for Indonesian Muslims is not just about individual wealth. It is about using your resources to create jobs, pay zakat and taxes, and support the community. When you succeed, you have the power to lift others with you, strengthening both the economy and the spirit of the nation. By aligning personal achievement with Islamic values and community needs, you help unlock Indonesia’s true potential—proving that wealth, when used wisely, is a blessing for all.
TL;DR: Indonesia’s Muslim majority has untapped economic potential—hampered by outdated philosophies around wealth, lack of practical skills, and need for a mindset overhaul. Changing perspective and embracing upskilling could make all the difference.
Post a Comment