Istiqlal Mosque
- Istiqlal Mosque, located in Jakarta, Indonesia, is the largest musjid in Southeast Asia and one of the largest in the world, with a capacity to accommodate up to 120,000 worshippers. The idea for the musjid was first conceived in 1945, following Indonesia’s declaration of independence. However, construction did not begin until 1961, when the foundation stone was laid by President Sukarno. After years of development, the musjid was finally inaugurated in 1978 under President Suharto’s administration.
- The musjid’s location was deliberately chosen by Sukarno to symbolize national unity and religious harmony, as it is situated near Merdeka Square, the Catholic Jakarta Cathedral, and the Protestant Immanuel Church. This proximity to houses of worship from other faiths is a testament to Indonesia’s commitment to interfaith tolerance.