Located on Rua de Campo Alor in Dili, Masjid An Nur stands as a prominent landmark and a symbol of the Islamic faith in the heart of Timor-Leste. It is recognized as the first, oldest, and largest mosque in the country, serving as a vital center for the local Muslim community.
The mosque was established in 1955 through the initiative of Imam Haji Hasan bin Abdulah Balatif and the Muslim community in Dili. During the Portuguese colonial era, Masjid An Nur was more than just a place of worship, because it served as a “strategic hub” for those struggling against colonial rule. Historically, prominent Muslim figures in Timor-Leste even sought support from the Indonesian government and people to aid their resistance against the Portuguese.
The Indonesian Connection: Sermons in Bahasa Indonesia
One of the most unique aspects of Masjid An Nur is its Friday prayer services. To this day, the Friday sermons (khutbah) are delivered in Bahasa Indonesia. This practice persists because a significant portion of the congregation consists of Indonesian citizens living in Dili.
In the past, An Nur Mosque had a madrasah named Madrasah An Nur Dili, which was established in 1976. Throughout its development, the majority of its administrators originated from North Sulawesi.
While the Imam of the mosque is a native of Timor-Leste, many of the preachers and teachers at the mosque are of Indonesian origin. Furthermore, during the period when Timor-Leste was part of Indonesia, the mosque saw significant development, including a major renovation in 1981 supported by the Indonesian government.
Islam in Timor-Leste Today
Islam has a long history in the region, tracing back to Arab traders who arrived as early as the 14th century. Although the Muslim population saw a decrease after Timor-Leste’s independence in 2002 as many Indonesian residents returned home, the community remains active and integrated till now.
The nation’s commitment to religious harmony is evident in its leadership and institutions. For instance, Timor-Leste’s first Prime Minister, Mari Alkatiri, is a Muslim of Arab descent. Today, Islamic affairs and education are managed by the Centro da Communidade Islamica de Timor Leste (CENCISTIL), an organization that enjoys full support from the local government.
Despite being a minority in a predominantly Catholic nation, the presence of Masjid An Nur continues to highlight the enduring spirit of religious coexistence and the deep historical ties shared across the Southeast Asian region.
