UNU Jogja Ethics Council Member Gus Hilmy Emphasizes the Relevance of Nahdlatul Ulama’s Role for the Nation at NU’s 100th Anniversary

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) has reached its 100th anniversary at a moment rich in historical and national significance. A century of NU’s journey reflects the organization’s longstanding contribution to religious, social, and national life. This milestone serves as an important reflection point to further strengthen NU’s role in serving society across various fields.

This message was emphasized by Ethics Council member of Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Yogyakarta (UNU Jogja), Dr. H. Hilmy Muhammad, M.A., widely known as Gus Hilmy. He encouraged NU to ensure that its role remains relevant to the nation and the state. At UNU Jogja, the spirit of organizational relevance and community service is also reflected in the university’s development as a higher education institution that grows alongside society.

According to him, since its establishment, NU has not only dealt with religious matters but also with issues of nationalism and humanity. Therefore, NU’s continued existence requires the courage to remain beneficial in various social situations.

“NU is now 100 years old. We do not only want NU to live for another 100 years, but until the end of time. If NU wants to survive, it must stay relevant. Being relevant means being present and serving,” said Gus Hilmy, who also serves as Katib Syuriah of PBNU, in front of NU administrators from across Bantul Regency during the 100th NU Anniversary celebration at the PCNU Bantul Office Hall on Friday (30/1).

To illustrate NU’s relevance, Gus Hilmy referred to the Javanese song Lir-ilir. He explained that the song, composed by Sunan Kalijaga in the 16th century, remains contextual today in describing NU at its centennial age.

“Lir-ilir, lir ilir, tandure wus sumilir. Wake up, rise up, the plants have begun to bloom. People are increasingly embracing NU, and its cadres are emerging. Tak ijo royo-royo, NU has spread widely. Tak sengguh penganten anyar, its spirit is like that of newlyweds,” he explained.

Gus Hilmy reminded NU not to lose its role amid the growing quality of its human resources. He noted that many NU members are now active as engineers, doctors, bureaucrats, and politicians. However, he stressed that this progress must be accompanied by improvements in organizational services and governance.

“NU cadres are now spread across strategic positions. This is a resource that needs to be managed so their contributions are clear, real, and well-organized,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of professionalism in organizational services. “It is not enough to be proud of having schools or clinics if they are managed carelessly without discipline and dedication. We can no longer simply ‘sell the flag’; we must match it with serious service and management,” he stated.

In addition, Gus Hilmy encouraged NU to create new breakthroughs that address the needs of society, especially young people. These include tutoring programs, creative spaces, and digital content production that highlights local history, Islamic values, and NU traditions.

In his closing remarks, Gus Hilmy stressed the importance of synergy between NU, local governments, and various elements of society. Internal consolidation and cross-sector collaboration, he said, are essential for NU to continue playing a role in guiding Indonesia toward a noble civilization.

“Synergy and collaboration must be maintained, both internally and with various partners. We cannot build this nation alone. We need many people to build the country. Mumpung padang rembulane, mumpung jembar kalangane,” Gus Hilmy concluded.

As a university under the auspices of Nahdlatul Ulama, UNU Jogja also continues to translate NU values into higher education. Through academic strengthening, cross-sector collaboration, and community service, the university is committed to being part of NU’s efforts to maintain its relevance amid the changing times. [Latifah]