Beyond the congress: NU and the moral future of Indonesia

Indonesia commemorates its 81st year of independence this month amid significant historical importance. Simultaneously, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU)—Indonesia's largest Muslim organization—commences its second century with the 35th Muktamar (congress) from August 27 to 31 at the Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Tambakberas, East Java. These two milestones are intertwined and raise a crucial question: What kind of Indonesia should we strive to create, and what moral leadership will guide us there?

The nation pursues its Golden Indonesia 2045 vision amidst geopolitical tensions, economic challenges, rapid technological advancements, environmental concerns, and global resource insecurity. The real struggle lies not in merely generating wealth but in fostering a nation that is equitable, accountable, capable, and dignified.

True independence transcends the absence of foreign domination; it necessitates liberation from poverty, systemic injustice, discrimination, fear, and arbitrary governance. Nobel laureate Amartya Sen highlighted in Development as Freedom that genuine development must expand substantive human freedoms—the genuine capacity for people to lead lives they value.

NU plays a pivotal role in this endeavor. More than a bureaucratic hierarchy, it is an extensive social ecosystem comprising Islamic boarding schools, schools, universities, charities, scholars, professionals, entrepreneurs, and millions of grassroots followers. Its most valuable asset lies in its social capital. NU's influence extends beyond its numerical strength; it derives strength from the confidence of its people. As such, NU's role is paramount in shaping Indonesia's moral future.