PBNU Appoints Asrorun Niam Sholeh and Two Disability Representatives

The Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) has officially confirmed its leadership structure for the 2026–2031 term, appointing 210 officials to the organization’s central board. The new lineup, finalized on September 30, 2026, includes the appointment of KH Asrorun Niam Sholeh as Rais Syuriyah and the historic inclusion of two representatives from the disability community, Gufroni Sakaril and Bahrul Fuad.

Formalizing the 2026–2031 Leadership Structure

The composition of the new PBNU board was formalized under Decree Number 2/PB.01/A.II.01.01/99/09/2026, as reported by NU Online Banten. The document was signed by Rais Aam KH Miftachul Akhyar, Katib Aam Prof Muhammad Nuh, General Chairman KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, and Secretary General H Gudfan Arif. This administrative transition follows the conclusion of the 35th Muktamar, which was held at the Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java.

The total number of board members has increased from 189 in the previous 2021–2026 term to 210 for the current cycle. According to General Chairman KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, this expansion is intended to ensure equitable representation across various internal organizations and generational cohorts within the Nahdlatul Ulama, including IPNU, IPPNU, and Ansor, as noted in coverage by news.detik.com.

KH Asrorun Niam Sholeh Becomes Rais Syuriyah

The elevation of KH Asrorun Niam Sholeh to the position of Rais Syuriyah marks a significant transition within the organization’s highest policy-making body.

As reported by NU Online Banten, Prof. Niam’s promotion is attributed to his track record of maintaining a moderate stance and his ability to handle complex organizational dynamics. The new structure also incorporates other notable figures, with Kompas.id reporting that cabinet members such as Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf and Minister of Agrarian Affairs Nusron Wahid have been assigned to key roles, serving as Deputy General Chairman and A’wan respectively.

Integrating Disability Inclusion into Organizational Governance

The 2026–2031 leadership formally integrates members from the disability community. Gufroni Sakaril has been appointed as one of the Chairmen of PBNU, while Bahrul Fuad, often referred to as Cak Fu, assumes the role of Deputy Secretary General. Bahrul Fuad is a sociologist who holds a doctorate from the University of Indonesia, specializing in gender equality, disability inclusion, and social inclusion.

Transitioning from Regional Muktamar to National Administration

The current appointments finalize the transition from the 35th Muktamar held in August 2026. Times.co.id reports that the appointment of figures such as KH Abdurrozaq Sholeh as Katib Syuriyah serves to integrate leadership from the host location of the recent Muktamar into the national structure.

The newly appointed board is expected to begin its duties immediately. In his remarks during the announcement, Gus Kikin emphasized the importance of objective feedback for the new administration. Please provide constructive criticism, suggestions, and appreciation as we carry out our duties; do not hesitate to criticize. However, when there are good deeds, do not hesitate to give us appreciation as a source of encouragement, vitamins, and strength to continue carrying out our tasks, he stated as reported by Kompas.id.