Sheikh Dr. Reza Abdul Jabbar and his wife, Ummu Khadijah Peggy Melati Sukma, S.Sos., M.H., successful Indonesian entrepreneurs based in New Zealand, have invited students of Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU) to participate in internship programs at their large-scale livestock and agricultural enterprises.
The internship opportunity was announced during their courtesy visit to the UMSU campus on Saturday (June 13) at Jalan Kapten Muchtar Basri, Medan.
The visit featured an inspiring Sharing Session entitled “From the Countries: Global Impact Business Insight for the Changing World,” officially opened by UMSU Rector Prof. Dr. Akrim, M.Pd. The event was attended by Chairman of the UMSU Board of Trustees (BPH) Prof. Dr. Agussani, M.AP., members of the Board of Trustees, Vice Rector III Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rudianto, M.Si., faculty and study program leaders, as well as international students studying at UMSU.
In his welcoming remarks, Rector Prof. Dr. Akrim expressed his appreciation and admiration for the two Indonesian figures who have successfully established themselves in New Zealand by managing approximately 1,000 hectares of farmland and more than 4,000 cattle.
“We are honored and delighted to welcome you to UMSU. Thank you for taking the time to visit and share your valuable experiences with us,” he said.
He reaffirmed UMSU’s commitment to becoming a globally recognized university.
“We are eager to learn from your inspiration, insights, and ideas. Today, UMSU is committed to becoming a university with an international reputation,” he added.
Prof. Akrim also introduced UMSU’s recent developments, including its preparations for hosting the Muhammadiyah Congress, and highlighted the Muhammadiyah movement’s philanthropic spirit, including the construction of the university’s integrated campus mosque.
During the sharing session, Sheikh Dr. Reza Abdul Jabbar emphasized the importance of international collaboration in higher education, particularly in strengthening agricultural education through practice-oriented curricula.
According to him, agricultural education should place greater emphasis on field experience to ensure graduates possess practical skills and are fully prepared to contribute to the sector.
“Agriculture is one of the noblest professions and should be entrusted to the best people because food security is fundamental to human life,” he said.
He also shared Islamic perspectives on achieving success, emphasizing that patience (sabr) is one of the most important keys to personal and professional achievement.
Quoting verses from the Holy Qur’an, he explained that patience can be understood in two forms: perseverance in matters within one’s control, such as pursuing education and acquiring knowledge, and patience in facing circumstances beyond one’s control, including financial loss or business setbacks.
“In education, those who impart knowledge must do so sincerely, while those who seek knowledge must learn with patience,” he said.
He further highlighted the Islamic principle of warabithu—remaining steadfast in one’s mission while preserving Islamic identity and values.
“The pursuit of knowledge demands sacrifice, perseverance, and strong mental resilience,” he emphasized.
During the session, Sheikh Reza also interacted with Mahmud, one of UMSU’s international students from Nigeria, discussing educational opportunities and personal experiences.
Meanwhile, Ummu Khadijah Peggy Melati Sukma shared her personal connection with Muhammadiyah, explaining that she received her early education in Muhammadiyah schools from kindergarten through elementary school.
She also reflected on her experiences traveling to 31 countries, where she encountered diverse cultures and overcame numerous challenges.
“Throughout our journeys across 31 countries, we have experienced many challenges and met people from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds,” she said.
She expressed her hope that Muhammadiyah would continue producing future generations who combine broad global perspectives with strong moral character.
“We hope Muhammadiyah continues to nurture generations who possess global insight while maintaining exemplary character and Islamic values,” she said.
Peggy also announced plans to establish educational partnerships with Indonesian universities.
“One of our current initiatives is collaborating with universities in Indonesia to strengthen agricultural education and curriculum development,” she explained.
Beyond curriculum development, the partnership is expected to include international internship opportunities.
“We conduct a selection process for internship participants so that students can gain hands-on experience working in modern livestock and agricultural operations in New Zealand,” she said.
The program is expected to provide students with valuable international exposure and practical experience in modern agriculture and livestock management.
The event concluded with a ceremonial exchange of souvenirs and commemorative gifts presented by UMSU Rector Prof. Dr. Akrim, M.Pd., together with Chairman of the Board of Trustees Prof. Dr. Agussani, M.AP.
The visit reaffirmed UMSU’s commitment to expanding its global partnerships, enhancing educational quality, and preparing graduates who are internationally competitive while remaining firmly grounded in the values of Islam and Muhammadiyah.
The event was also attended by Dr. Muthalib, M.M., Secretary of the UMSU Board of Trustees; Prof. Dr. Hasyimsyah Nasution, M.A., Chairman of the Muhammadiyah Regional Board of North Sumatra and member of the UMSU Board of Trustees; Prof. Dr. Muhammad Qorib, M.A., Treasurer of the Muhammadiyah Regional Board of North Sumatra; Irwansyah Putra, M.A., Secretary of the Muhammadiyah Regional Board of North Sumatra; and Drs. H. Dalail Ahmad, M.A., member of the UMSU Board of Trustees.
