Nestled in the heart of Jakarta, Istiqlal Mosque stands as a powerful symbol of Indonesia’s independence and pluralistic spirit. Built not long after the country declared freedom from colonial rule, the mosque was conceived as a national place of worship for all Indonesian Muslims.
The term Istiqlal, derived from Arabic, means “independence,” encapsulating the nation's newfound freedom and sovereignty. The idea for the mosque emerged in 1953, championed by Wahid Hasyim and Anwar Cokroaminoto. President Sukarno, ever the visionary and proponent of nation-building through monumental architecture, endorsed the project and laid the first stone on August 24, 1961.
The mosque took 17 years to complete. Finally inaugurated on February 22, 1978, Istiqlal became more than a religious structure, it became a monument of national pride, unity, and modern Indonesian identity.
Architectural Grandeur and Symbolism
Designed by Frederich Silaban, a Christian architect from North Sumatra, Istiqlal’s very design underscores Indonesia’s commitment to religious harmony and inclusiveness. Silaban won the national design competition with his concept “Ketuhanan,” meaning divinity. His selection was a deliberate act by Sukarno to reflect religious tolerance in a newly independent nation.
Spanning over 91,000 square meters, Istiqlal can accommodate more than 200,000 worshippers, making it not only the largest mosque in Southeast Asia but also among the most spacious in the world.
Key architectural features include:
- Dome Diameter: 45 meters — a nod to Indonesia’s year of independence: 1945.
- Minaret Height: 96.66 meters, symbolizing a modern interpretation of Quranic structure, with 30 meters representing the 30 juz’ of the Quran.
- Five Levels: Representing the Five Pillars of Islam.
- Seven Entrances: Symbolizing the seven heavens in Islamic cosmology.
- Twelve Pillars: Supporting the dome, marking the 12th of Rabi’ al-awwal, the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday.
The mosque’s modernist design combines Islamic motifs with clean lines and stainless-steel finishes. The interior is vast, solemn, and minimally decorated, enhancing a sense of spiritual focus while celebrating architectural mastery.
A Beacon of Religious Harmony
Istiqlal is strategically located across the street from Jakarta Cathedral and close to Immanuel Church, forming a rare interfaith triangle in the heart of the capital. This physical proximity is not coincidental. Sukarno deliberately placed Istiqlal near the cathedral to emphasize national unity and tolerance.
In 2020, the “Tunnel of Friendship” was inaugurated to link the mosque with the cathedral, symbolizing not only religious coexistence but also active dialogue and cooperation. This spirit was reaffirmed during Pope Francis’s visit in 2024, where he praised Istiqlal’s openness and Indonesia’s example of interfaith harmony.
Sustainability and Innovation
Istiqlal Mosque is also a pioneer in Islamic environmental stewardship. Under Grand Imam Nasaruddin Umar’s leadership, the mosque underwent a massive renovation between 2019 and 2020, incorporating sustainable technologies.
The mosque now features solar panels, water recycling systems, energy-efficient lighting, and better ventilation earning it recognition from the World Bank as the first green-certified place of worship in the region. These efforts align with growing calls for climate-conscious design in faith-based architecture.
Beyond Religion: A Cultural Landmark
Istiqlal is not just a mosque; it’s a destination. With its large prayer halls, exhibition spaces, and educational programs, it functions as a cultural center open to all. Tourists, students, and spiritual pilgrims from across Indonesia and the world come to witness its grandeur.
Notable international figures including Barack Obama and Angela Merkel have visited Istiqlal, reinforcing its global reputation. Daily guided tours are available for non-Muslims, further opening space for dialogue and mutual respect.
Final Reflection: The Soul of a Nation
Istiqlal Mosque stands as a living monument to Indonesia’s ideals: faith, freedom, and unity in diversity. Its very existence designed by a Christian architect, embraced by a Muslim-majority nation, and standing side-by-side with churches is a powerful message in today’s fragmented world.
As the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, Istiqlal not only honors Indonesia’s Islamic identity but also its deep-rooted commitment to pluralism. It’s a place where call to prayer echoes alongside cathedral bells, and where the spirit of gotong royong (communal harmony) finds architectural expression.
Whether you visit for spiritual reflection, architectural appreciation, or historical insight, Istiqlal will always stand as a reminder that faith can unite rather than divide.
References:
- RRI. (2021, December 3). Fakta Masjid Istiqlal Jakarta, Masjid Terbesar di Asia Tenggara. Retrieved from https://www.rri.co.id
- The Guardian. (2024, September 5). ‘Togetherness in our diversity’: Pope Francis preaches unity at south-east Asia’s largest mosque. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com
