NU Congress in East Java Boosts Local Economy with 1,500 MSME Stalls

JOMBANG, East Java — The 35th Congress of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) in Jombang, East Java, is giving a boost to local economic activity through a bazaar featuring about 1,500 stalls for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) around the Bahrul Ulum Islamic boarding school in Tambakberas.

The bazaar, which runs from Aug. 20 to Aug. 31, offers a range of products including food and beverages, souvenirs and locally made handicrafts. Organizers have also provided a public entertainment stage during the event.

Saifullah Yusuf, chairman of the organizing committee for the 35th NU Congress, said providing facilities for local businesses was part of the preparations for the event.

"The bazaar is being held to help drive the economy of the surrounding community during the congress," Saifullah, also known as Gus Ipul, said at the opening of the congress in Jombang on Thursday (Aug. 27).

Saifullah said the congress was expected to attract more than 50,000 NU members and supporters from across Indonesia.

The influx of participants, visitors and accompanying groups is expected to increase demand for food, beverages, souvenirs and other locally produced goods during the event.

The congress, held in the Tambakberas area, provides local businesses with an opportunity to increase sales as thousands of visitors pass through the area during the nearly two-week event.

The 35th NU Congress was formally opened by President Prabowo Subianto on Thursday, accompanied by Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, People's Consultative Assembly Speaker Ahmad Muzani, NU's Rais Aam Miftachul Akhyar and NU Chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf.

The congress is the organization's main forum for discussing NU's future direction, leadership and strategic agenda for the coming period. (Janne Sinten)