Remembering Gus Dur's Role in the History of Nahdlatul Ulama

2026-08-30

Abdurrahman Wahid, or familiarly known as Gus Dur, was a pivotal figure in the history of Indonesia's largest Islamic organization, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU). He was known as a figure with broad perspectives and high dedication to humanity and diversity in Indonesia.

One of the significant moments in Gus Dur's leadership journey occurred in 1984. At that time, during the NU Congress held in Situbondo, Gus Dur was elected as the General Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU). This event became a turning point for the organization in determining its future direction.

Gus Dur's decision to accept the position was considered a major step for NU. Through his political ijtihad, Gus Dur brought NU back to its khittah, which is the original spirit of the organization's founding that focuses on religious, social, and educational fields, while maintaining distance from practical politics that limited the organization's scope of movement.

The steps taken by Gus Dur during his leadership of PBNU had a significant impact on the Nahdliyin community. He succeeded in making NU a more open, modern, and inclusive organization for all levels of Indonesian society, regardless of their background differences.

To this day, the thoughts and values championed by Gus Dur remain relevant. His leadership legacy in NU is not only remembered as organizational history but also as an inspiration for the younger generation in maintaining unity and tolerance amidst the diversity of the Indonesian nation.