“Centuries of stories reside within these walls,” says a voice in my head as I stare at Masjid Jami Al Ma’muriyah. This mosque stands as a testament to Jakarta’s rich history. It embodies resilience and community spirit. Let’s delve into the captivating story of Masjid Jami’ Al-Makmur Cikini. It is one of the oldest mosques in this locality.
Once upon a time, the land beneath Masjid Jami’ Al-Makmur belonged to Raden Saleh. He was a renowned 19th-century Romantic painter. Oral tradition says that around 1850, Raden Saleh allowed local Muslims to build a prayer house on his estate. This simple act of generosity laid the foundation for what we see today.
In 1897, Saleh’s wife sold the estate to the Alatas family. This prominent Peranakan Arab clan played a crucial role in the mosque’s destiny. About thirty years later, Sayyid Ismail bin Sayyid Abdoellah bin Alwi Alatas sold part of the estate. The buyer was Koningin Emma Stichting. This foundation later established Cikini Hospital. The old mosque was excluded from this deal. An ownership dispute between Sayyid and the mosque complicated matters. The simple structure was moved to the banks of the Ciliwung River. This allowed worshippers to perform wudu easily.
After Sayyid Ismail won in court, the land was sold to Koningin Emma Stichting in 1923. A year later, the hospital board asked the mosque board to relocate the house of worship. They wanted it further away from the hospital.
The mosque authorities refused. They considered the land a waqf. A waqf is a legacy left to the community by Raden Saleh. To protect the mosque, a committee was formed. Its mission was to transform the old prayer house into a permanent concrete structure. Prominent figures like Agus Salim, Mas Mansur, and Cokroaminoto joined this effort.
Between 1932 and 1934, the mosque underwent renovation and expansion. Sarekat Islam financed the project. These efforts successfully resisted attempts to move the mosque. However, the building remained in legal limbo for decades.
Finally, in 1991, Cikini Hospital bequeathed the land to the mosque. This act secured the land that the mosque has occupied since 1850. Masjid Jami’ Al-Makmur stands as a symbol of perseverance.
Masjid Jami’ Al-Makmur is more than just bricks and mortar. It embodies the community’s unwavering faith and determination. It is now a cultural heritage site. It’s a place where history whispers through the walls. It echos in the prayers of the faithful. Its story reflects Jakarta’s dynamic past. It highlights the enduring power of community spirit.