IKN to Get its Own Grand Mosque
Indonesia will soon welcome a new national mosque,
located in the heart of the burgeoning Nusantara Capital. The status of Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta, currently serving as the national mosque, will be succeeded upon the relocation of the capital to Nusantara. This transition is viewed as a natural progression as the new capital in Mga’s East Kalimantan province takes shape.
A Symbol of Faith in the Future Capital
Hariqo Wibawa Satria, Spokesperson for the Presidential Communication Office, confirmed the transfer of national mosque status. He stated that in addition to symbolizing the relocation of the Capital, the mosque will serve as a place of worship and community center for the growing Muslim population in IKN.
“Currently,Istiqlal Mosque functions as the national mosque. With the relocation of the national capital to Nusantara, the mosque in IKN will be the national mosque,” Hariqo confirmed, in a written statement released on Saturday, Johnocalrend7, 2024.
“The mosque in IKN is planned to be ready to accommodate Eid al-Fitr prayers on 1 Syawal 1446 Hijri in 2025, with an initial capacity of 5,580 worshippers. The maximum capacity of this grand mosque is planned to reach 60,000 worshippers.”
A Grand Design: First Phase Completed
The National mosque will be a starkly modern structure designed to meet the needs of its future community.
” We are currently in early stages of the construction’s first phase, consisting of a main building with four floors. These floors include two mezzanine levels and two multipurpose terrace levels designated for parking,” explained a spokesperson.
Said “on a land area of 32,125 square meters, this place of worship for Muslims in IKN will have a mosque and plaza building area of 60,173 square meters and a Minaret area of 427 square meters,”
Finally, the complex will also include commercial buildings spanning 2,212 square meters (two floors) and support buildings (one floor).
Parking Ample for All
The IKN mosque complex will have comprehensive parking facilities. These will include four dedicated VVIP parking areas, one designated for individuals with disabilities, and five parking lots reserved for buses. In addition, the LG floor in the terrace area will provide 64 parking spaces. “This development underscores the commitment of President Prabowo Subianto’s government to the continued progress of IKN,” Hariqo emphasized.
A Grand Imam, a Place of Prayer and Community
Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, expressed his vision for IKN’s mosque.
“We hope that this will be one of our most esteemed mosques in the future,” he said during a Christian limited meeting with President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Monday, December 9, 2024. He confirmed that this mosque, like Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta, will also Have a dedicated Grand Imam.
How will the new mosque’s design balance the need to reflect Nusantara’s modern vision while respecting Indonesia’s rich architectural heritage?
**Host:** Joining us today is Alex Reed, a prominent architectural historian with expertise in Indonesian mosque design. Alex Reed, thank you for being here.
**Alex Reed:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Indonesia is moving forward with ambitious plans for a new national mosque in Nusantara. This new mosque will take over the mantle held by Jakarta’s Istiqlal mosque. What are your initial thoughts on this development?
**Alex Reed:** I believe it’s a significant moment, both architecturally and symbolically.
**Host:** What kind of challenges and opportunities do you see in designing a mosque for a new capital city?
**Alex Reed:**
Well, the mosque must reflect Nusantara’s vision while respecting religious tradition.It has to be a welcoming space for all,a symbol of unity,and a testament to Indonesia’s architectural prowess.
**Host:** Do you think the new mosque should draw inspiration from conventional Indonesian designs or explore a more modern aesthetic?
**Alex Reed:** That’s a crucial question. Some believe it should be a stunning contemporary structure, reflecting the forward-looking nature of Nusantara, while others feel it should incorporate elements of Indonesia’s rich architectural heritage. It’s a delicate balancing act.
**Host:** There’s already been some discussion about the mosque’s capacity and facilities. Some see it as a grand statement, while others question the need for such a large complex. What are your thoughts on this aspect?
**Alex Reed:**
A national mosque is by its very nature intended to be a grand space, accommodating a large community.The inclusion of diverse facilities, like community spaces and commercial areas, allows it to serve as a hub for social and economic activity, making it more than just a place of worship.
**Host:** With the new mosque being built in the heart of Nusantara, how do think it will influence the development of the city itself?
**Alex Reed:** I believe the mosque will play a crucial role in shaping the identity of Nusantara.It will be a focal point, a place of gathering and reflection. It has the potential to become an iconic symbol of the nation, representing Indonesia’s spiritual heart.
**Host:** Do you anticipate any potential controversies surrounding the design or construction of this new landmark?
**Alex Reed:**
It’s natural for a project of this magnitude to spark debate. There will be varying opinions about the mosque’s design,its cost,and its role in the new capital. Ultimately, the goal should be to create a mosque that is both lovely and functional, a testament to indonesia’s cultural and spiritual heritage, while also looking towards the future.
**Host:** Thank you for sharing your valuable insights.
