Imagine the year is 1890. Raden Saleh Syarif Bustaman Indonesian maestro painter is moving a small surau. This humble prayer house marks the beginning of Masjid Jami’ Al-Ma’mur. It stands here in Cikini Menteng Jakarta Pusat.
Masjid Jami’ Al-Ma’mur is more than just a building. It is a testament to community resilience and historical significance. It is one of Jakarta’s oldest mosques. Its story stretches back centuries. It reflects Jakarta’s Islamic heritage.
Initially the mosque was part of Raden Saleh’s residence. His property spanned from Cikini to Tugu Tani Menteng. After Raden Saleh’s death the land changed hands. Sayed Abdullah bin Alatas bought it. Later it was sold to Koningen Emma Ziekenhuis a Dutch colonial foundation.
The foundation planned to demolish the mosque. They wanted to build a nonprofit hospital. They also planned missionary activities. This sparked local resistance. National figures like HOS Tjokroaminoto stepped in. Agus Salim and KH Mas Mansyur defended Masjid Jami’ Al-Ma’mur.
In 1930 local residents decided to renovate the mosque. Previously it was made of bamboo. It was moved by hand. The Sarekat Islam helped fund the project. People donated to build the mosque. KH Agus Salim inaugurated the renovated Masjid Jami’ Al-Ma’mur in 1932.
Land disputes arose after Indonesia’s independence. The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs issued land rights to the Indonesian Council of Churches. Negotiations followed involving the government and mosque officials. Finally in 1991 the land was returned. The Al Makmur Mosque Foundation regained control.
Masjid Jami’ Al-Ma’mur features old architecture. It has preserved wood carvings. The mosque has about seven main doors. Ten windows are made of original teak wood.
The two-story building serves as a prayer space. It accommodates up to 700 worshipers. Today Masjid Jami’ Al-Ma’mur stands as a cultural heritage site. The Governor of Jakarta designated it in 1999.
The Al Makmur Mosque Foundation manages the mosque. It also runs a school. It also runs a madrasah. These additions support the community.
Once the Monas monument was visible from here. Now buildings block the view. Despite changes Masjid Jami’ Al-Ma’mur retains its authenticity. It has original elements. It offers a glimpse into Jakarta’s past. An additional area was built in 1994. It hosts Friday prayers. It also hosts tarawih prayers during Ramadan. The original building is still used for daily prayers.
Look closely at the details. Admire the teak wood. Imagine the community gatherings. Masjid Jami’ Al-Ma’mur is a living monument. It shows Jakarta’s history. It embodies the spirit of its people.