The Sports Development Institute (LPO) of the Central Executive of Muhammadiyah has officially expanded the scope of its physical activities by establishing a strategic collaboration with the All-Indonesia Walking Football Association (Persejasi). The formal agreement was finalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the PP Muhammadiyah office in Yogyakarta on Friday (3/7).
This initiative focuses on developing walking football across all levels of the Muhammadiyah organization. The sport is viewed as an inclusive alternative for physical activity due to its minimal risk of injury and ability to accommodate participants across various age groups, aligning with the values of health and togetherness promoted by the organization.
The Chairman of LPO PP Muhammadiyah, Gatot Sugiharto, stated his institute's full commitment to integrating this program down to the branch and regional levels. According to him, this collaboration is not merely a sporting event, but a concrete effort to foster a healthy lifestyle culture accessible to all members of the organization.
As a next step, both parties are committed to formulating supporting programs, ranging from coach training and organizing tournaments to intensive awareness campaigns regarding the methods of this sport. The General Chairman of Persejasi, Hendra Hartono, attended the event in person to strengthen the long-term synergy between the national sports organization and the community-based institution.
It is hoped that introducing walking football to the Muhammadiyah community will act as a catalyst for building a fitter society while strengthening interpersonal bonds among members. Through this synergy, LPO PP Muhammadiyah is optimistic about making a tangible contribution toward building a healthy, inclusive national sports ecosystem rooted in da'wah values.