The Istiqlal Grand Mosque in Jakarta, the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, has once again become a symbol of faith, charity, and community during Ramadan.
Each year, the mosque hosts a mass iftar, bringing together thousands of Muslims from across the city and beyond to break their fast in a communal celebration of worship, reflection, and charity.
Spirit of Ramadan at Istiqlal Mosque
Ramadan, a sacred time of fasting from dawn to dusk, encourages millions of Muslims worldwide to deepen their worship and engage in acts of charity.
At Istiqlal Grand Mosque, one of the most significant mosques in the Muslim world, this tradition is brought to life through the distribution of approximately 4,500 free meals daily to those in need. The mosque’s charity committee, along with local vendors and community members, work tirelessly to ensure that passersby, travelers, and those facing financial difficulties are provided with food during this blessed month.
Ahmad Mulyadi, one of the organizers of the event, highlighted the overwhelming generosity of the initiative. “The number of people usually far exceeds the food available, but for now that is all we can provide,” he said, underscoring the mosque’s commitment to serving the community despite resource constraints.
On a recent Thursday, around 10,000 people gathered in the mosque’s expansive main courtyard for the mass iftar, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
Families and friends gathered to share meals, while many individuals, including travelers and locals, came alone to join in the communal experience. For some, like 77-year-old widow Siti Hafnita Siregar Sukawati, the gathering offers a sense of belonging that surpasses the solitude of breaking fast at home. “Being part of this gathering feels so good,” she shared. “It reinforces my faith and reminds me of the importance of charity and community,” she told AP.
The mass iftar is not just a meal; it is a powerful cultural and spiritual journey. For Mohammad Nur, a motorcycle taxi driver who often works during Ramadan, the mosque offers a place to break his fast, especially when his job keeps him away from home.
Vendors and Volunteers: A Collaborative Effort
Local vendors like Tenri Jeka, who has been supplying meals to the mosque for years, also play a crucial role in the success of the mass iftar. Although Ramadan may not always be profitable for vendors, Tenri’s focus remains on seeking “God’s blessings.” “I just hope this will grant me and the people around me rewards from God,” she said.
The collaboration between the mosque’s charity committee, vendors, and volunteers creates a sense of unity that strengthens the spirit of Ramadan. Despite the challenges of meeting the demands of such a large gathering, the commitment to providing food for those in need remains steadfast.
Istiqlal mosque — a Symbol of Faith and Community
For travelers visiting Jakarta during Ramadan, the mass iftar at Istiqlal offers a unique opportunity to witness and participate in one of the most significant religious events in Indonesia. The mosque, which was first opened to the public in 1978 by President Soekarno, is not just a place of worship but also a cultural landmark that attracts visitors from around the world. Its impressive modern architecture, combined with traditional Islamic elements, serves as a symbol of Indonesia’s religious tolerance and diversity.
Istiqlal Mosque stands as a testament to the city’s multicultural and multi-religious fabric. The mosque’s vast prayer hall, marble courtyard, and striking central dome hold spiritual and architectural significance, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in exploring Jakarta’s rich cultural heritage. The mosque’s expansive capacity, accommodating up to 120,000 people, underscores its importance as a central hub for worship and community during Ramadan and beyond.
As Ramadan continues, Istiqlal Mosque remains a beacon of faith and charity, offering a space where people come together to reflect, share, and strengthen their sense of community.