Central Java Launches Logo and Mascot for 2026 National MTQ
Semarang (ANTARA) - Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar, alongside Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi, launched the logo, mascot, and theme for the XXXI National Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) at the Central Java Grand Mosque Convention Hall in Semarang on Thursday. The launch marks Central Java’s readiness to host Indonesia’s largest Quran recitation festival and competition, scheduled for 11 to 20 September 2026.
The event was also attended by Vice Governor and Chairman of the Central Java Tilawatil Quran Development Institute (LPTQ) Taj Yasin Maimoen, Central Java Regional Secretary Sumarno, Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti, and Deputy Mayor Iswar Aminuddin, along with other religious and community leaders.
The theme for the XXXI National MTQ is ‘Spreading the Light of the Quran in Harmony Towards a Civilised Golden Indonesia’. The theme reflects the aspiration for Quranic values to guide the building of a harmonious, tolerant, just, and civilised life towards the Indonesia Emas vision.
The logo features a white-and-green gunungan wayang motif incorporating icons of Semarang, representing the cultural values, diversity, and harmony characteristic of Central Java. The mascot, named Saqur (Sahabat Quran), depicts a religious, intelligent, creative, spirited, and morally upright young Indonesian generation.
Minister Nasaruddin Umar noted that the Semarang MTQ would introduce new elements, including additional events that combine festivity with deeper spiritual appreciation. The event will also feature seminars, exhibitions, a rebana competition, a fashion show, a job fair, and city tours. He highlighted that international Quranic scholars and judges would be invited to contribute to the event.
‘MTQ is one of the largest and most vibrant Quran festivals in the world and serves as an important platform for tolerance in Indonesia,’ the Minister said. ‘Economically, it also benefits the host region. Tens to hundreds of thousands of people will come, travel, and spend money—not just on hotels, but on food, transport, and bazaars. MTQ is the people’s grandest celebration.’
Governor Ahmad Luthfi expressed pride and gratitude for Central Java being chosen as the host, emphasising the province’s commitment to upholding tolerance. ‘We want to ensure that participants feel the peace and tranquillity of Central Java. I have asked all regents and mayors to support this event by attending and witnessing the proceedings in person,’ he said.