Central Java Governor and Religious Affairs Minister Launch Logo and Mascot for 31st National MTQ

The launch marks Central Java’s readiness to host Indonesia’s largest Qur’an festival and competition from 11 to 20 September 2026. The theme for the 31st National MTQ is ‘Spreading the Light of the Qur’an in Harmony Towards a Civilised Golden Indonesia’. The theme reflects the hope that the values of the Qur’an will serve as a guide in building a harmonious, tolerant, just, and civilised life towards a Golden Indonesia.

The logo and mascot were the results of an open competition. The logo features a white-and-green gunungan wayang shape incorporating several icons of the host city, Semarang. Its meaning represents the cultural values, diversity, and harmony that characterise Central Java. The mascot, named Saqur (Sahabat Qur’an), depicts a religious, intelligent, creative, spirited young Indonesian with noble character. It is intended to symbolise the spirit of the younger generation in practising the values of the Qur’an.

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin explained that many new developments have emerged from MTQ events held in various regions. He noted that this edition in Semarang, Central Java, introduces new elements initiated by the organising committee, including additional events that combine festivity with deeper appreciation of meaning. The MTQ in Semarang will also be combined with various activities such as seminars, expos and exhibitions, a rebana competition, a job fair, a city tour, and more. ‘I underline that there are many special things here that we have never seen at previous MTQs. There will also be a panel of judges, Qur’anic experts, and scholars from abroad whose contributions we will utilise,’ Nasaruddin stated in a press release.

According to him, the MTQ is one of the largest and most vibrant Qur’an festivals in the world. The MTQ also serves multiple functions, including acting as an important vessel for tolerance in Indonesia. The festivity of the MTQ is crucial for national cohesion. ‘It is also economically beneficial for the host region. Tens to hundreds of thousands of people will come, travel, and spend money. Not just on hotels, but also on culinary experiences, transportation, bazaars, and more. The MTQ is the biggest people’s party,’ he said.

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi expressed pride and gratitude that his province was chosen to host the 31st National MTQ. He stated that Central Java is a province that upholds tolerance. ‘We want to ensure that participants feel the peace and tranquillity of Central Java. I have asked the regents and mayors to support this by attending and watching the event in person during the implementation,’ he said. He affirmed that Central Java is fully prepared to organise the event. All preparations have been undertaken by the committee led by Vice Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen. Evaluations will continue to be carried out to ensure maximum results during the execution. The trust placed in Central Java as the host demonstrates that the province is a destination for national and international scale events. The activity is expected to generate an extraordinary multiplier effect. ‘Not only in terms of religion, but also involving MSMEs and cultural exchange, thereby elevating the profile of Semarang City and Central Java,’ he said.

The launch event was also attended by Vice Governor and Chairman of the Central Java LPTQ Taj Yasin Maimoen, Central Java Regional Secretary Sumarno, Mayor of Semarang Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti, Deputy Mayor of Semarang Iswar Aminuddin, Chairman of the Central Java Baznas Ahmad Darodji, Chairman of the Central Java MUI Noor Achmad, as well as several other prominent religious and community figures.