“Ever wondered what lies beyond those Betawi-style walls?” I ask. That is Masjid Baital Ma’mur. This mosque stands as a testament to Jakarta’s rich cultural heritage. It blends Betawi traditions with Islamic faith.
Masjid Baital Ma’mur is more than just a place of worship. It’s a symbol of cultural preservation. The mosque actively maintains Betawi culture amidst globalization.
Let’s delve into the story of Masjid Baital Ma’mur. Its origins trace back to 1963. Then, it was a humble mushalah a small prayer house. Bapak Jaba and the local community established it during the Dutch colonial era.
In 1963, H. Amat, H. Amit, and H. Miat spearheaded the relocation. They moved it 500 meters from its original site. The old structure was aging and poorly maintained. H. Miat donated land of 100 square meters. They built a mosque from red brick and bamboo walls there. It was named Masjid Jami Al-Falah.
Education was always a priority. Alongside the mosque, Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Al-Hidayah was established. H.M. Toeis Aminudin led the madrasa as headmaster. It flourished until 1974.
In 1970, the mosque shifted westward. A permanent building of brick was constructed on 1,000 square meters. H. Miat bin H. Buang donated the land as a waqf or endowment. However, construction stalled until 1979.
In 1974, Madrasah Al-Hidayah became independent. The family of H. Amit took over its management.
Then, in late 1979, PEMDA DCI stepped in. The Regional Government of the Capital City funded the mosque’s completion. Governor Tjokropranolo inaugurated the building. The name changed to Masjid Baitul Ma’mur. Ustadz H. Ahmad Suhaimi became the first Chairman of the DKM or Mosque Welfare Council.
KH Ahmad Suhaimi was an influential figure. He was instrumental in establishing Masjid Baitul Ma’mur. He also helped build other mosques around Srengseng. Besides being a religious leader, he was also a teacher. He taught at an elementary school. Later, he became a civil servant at the Ministry of Religious Affairs. He taught Islam to those eager to learn. Known for his helpfulness and dedication to da’wah or preaching, he served as Chairman of the DKM of Masjid Baitul Ma’mur until his death in 1997. In 2022, the local government honored him. Jalan Setu Babakan was renamed Jalan KH Ahmad Suhaimi.
After H. Ahmad Suhaimi’s death, H.A. Rachmat S. took over as Chairman of the DKM.
On August 20, 2002, the old mosque was demolished. Usable materials were donated to other mosques. A month later, PEMDA DKI rebuilt the mosque. This time, it was on a larger plot of 2,140 square meters. Construction finished in December 2004. The congregation agreed to rename it Masjid Raya Baitul Ma’mur.
After H.A. Racmat S. passed away on January 2, 2005, Gumin Has SPd. succeeded him. He was elected through a community meeting. His term began on March 5, 2005. It lasted for three years.
Masjid Baitul Ma’mur’s architecture reflects Betawi influences. Look at the langkan or terrace fence. Note the lisplang gigi balang or jagged eaves and the roof. These details showcase the mosque’s Betawi identity.
The land on which it stands holds significance. 1,000 square meters are a waqf from H. Miat bin H. Buang. The rest was acquired by H.A. Rachmat bin H. Miat.
Masjid Raya Baitul Ma’mur stands proudly. It reflects the harmony between Betawi culture and Islam. It is a reminder of community effort and devotion.