Prabowo to Open 35th NU Muktamar in Jombang

Grand Preparations for the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Muktamar

The Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) is currently undertaking intensive preparations for the grand implementation of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Muktamar (National Congress). This historic event is scheduled to take place at the Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Tambakberas, Jombang Regency, East Java. Jombang, widely recognized as the city of santri (Islamic students) and the birthplace of NU's founding fathers, has once again been honored to host the highest deliberation forum of the largest Islamic organization in Indonesia. The presence of thousands of prominent clerics, scholars, and delegates from across the nation and around the globe is expected to enliven the dynamics of this monumental congress.

The selection of Jombang as the venue for the 35th Muktamar holds profound historical significance. Jombang is the birthplace of Hadratussyaikh Hasyim Asy'ari, the primary founder of Nahdlatul Ulama. Holding the congress in this sacred location is not merely an administrative decision, but a spiritual endeavor to return to the roots of the struggle (khittah) and seek blessings from the organization's pioneers. This spirit of returning to the pesantren (Islamic boarding school) is expected to strengthen solidarity and the vision for the community amidst increasingly complex modern challenges.

Official Invitation to President Prabowo Subianto

In order to ensure the resounding success of this major event, PBNU has officially invited President Prabowo Subianto to attend and inaugurate the 35th NU Muktamar. Strategic meetings between PBNU executives and President Prabowo have been conducted to confirm the Head of State's willingness to participate in this crucial agenda. The presence of the President is viewed as highly essential, representing a robust synergy between religious leaders and the government in building a prosperous, secure, and peaceful nation.

PBNU's proactive step in inviting President Prabowo also underscores Nahdlatul Ulama's strategic position as a vital pillar safeguarding the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. Excellent collaboration between the government and socio-religious organizations like NU has proven highly effective in mitigating social unrest, promoting a moderate vision of Islam Nusantara, and driving the grassroots economic growth of the community. The wider public is eagerly anticipating the presidential address that will be delivered during the opening ceremony.

PWNU East Java Dynamics and Gus Kikin's Leadership

Beyond the technical preparations for the muktamar, public attention is also directed toward the internal dynamics within the East Java Regional Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PWNU Jatim). Issues concerning integrity and leadership commitment have become a hot topic of discussion, particularly regarding KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, affectionately known as Gus Kikin. PWNU Jatim has publicly claimed and firmly asserted that Gus Kikin has absolutely no intention of taking any financial advantage from the organization.

This statement emerges as a reaffirmation of the principle of selfless service that must be strictly upheld by every NU executive. Managing Nahdlatul Ulama is regarded as a field of worship, not a platform for seeking worldly wealth or power. Gus Kikin, who also serves as the caretaker of the Tebuireng Islamic Boarding School, is highly respected as a figure who prioritizes sincerity and focuses relentlessly on the development of human resources and the economic independence of Islamic boarding schools.

Focusing on Organizational Independence and Empowerment

The steadfast commitment of NU figures in East Java is expected to serve as a sterling example for organizational structures from the branch level down to the grassroots. Transparency, strict accountability, and pure dedication are the master keys to maintaining the honor and dignity of the jam'iyah (organization). PWNU Jatim is currently intensifying various empowerment programs focusing on sharia economics, education, and healthcare, all aimed at improving the welfare of nahdliyin (NU members) without illegitimately burdening the organization's treasury.

The momentum of the 35th Muktamar is predicted to be an essential stage for redefining the broad outlines of NU's struggle as it navigates its second century. With high-integrity leadership and solid synergy with the government under the direction of President Prabowo, Nahdlatul Ulama is believed to be growing even stronger in fulfilling its role as a blessing for the entire universe (rahmatan lil 'alamin). All eyes are now focused on Jombang, eagerly awaiting the birth of strategic decisions that will bring enlightenment to the future of Islamic civilization and the Indonesian nation.