Leadership within the Pengurus Besar Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) has proposed that the 35th Muktamar be hosted at a pesantren, according to discussions held during a recent plenary meeting in Jakarta.
Logistical Requirements for the Proposed Venue
KH Anwar Iskandar, the Vice Rais Aam of PBNU, emphasized that any chosen pesantren must meet specific criteria to ensure the success of the event. Primary among these requirements is accessibility, as the location must be easily reachable by transportation for all participants to avoid unnecessary complications.
the facility must possess the capacity to accommodate the assembly, including adequate sleeping quarters, meeting rooms, and essential sanitation facilities (MCK). Iskandar, who also serves as the caretaker of Pesantren Al-Amin in Kediri, East Java, noted that the selection requires a venue that is “ready for use” due to the relatively short preparation window.
Timeline and Financial Transparency
The proposed dates for the 35th Muktamar are August 1–5, 2026, a timeframe that has reportedly been agreed upon by the Syuriyah PBNU leadership. As the organization prepares for this significant gathering, Iskandar also called for greater transparency regarding financial reports.

He stated that financial discussions must be conducted openly, noting that such transparency is essential for the “safety of NU.”
Regional Proposals and Organizational Context
While the pesantren model has been suggested, Rais Aam PBNU KH Miftachul Akhyar reported that several regional branches (PWNU) have submitted their own proposals. These include submissions from Nusa Tenggara Barat, Sumatra Barat, and DKI Jakarta, alongside various other pesantren.
The plenary meeting involved a wide range of high-level officials, including PBNU Chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf, Vice Chairman H Amin Said Husni, Secretary General H Saifullah Yusuf, and members of the Dewan Mustasyar and Tanfidziyah PBNU. The final decision regarding the host location could depend on which site best meets the dual requirements of historical tradition and modern logistical capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 35th Muktamar proposed to take place?
The Muktamar is proposed to be held from August 1 to August 5, 2026.
What specific facilities must a host pesantren provide?
The pesantren must have adequate capacity for meeting rooms, sleeping quarters, and sanitation facilities (MCK), as well as being easily accessible via transportation.
Which regions have officially proposed hosting the Muktamar?
Proposals have been received from the regional branches (PWNU) of Nusa Tenggara Barat, Sumatra Barat, and DKI Jakarta, in addition to various pesantren.
How important is the choice of venue in maintaining the organizational traditions of a large institution?
