MUSHOLA AL MAKMUR

What secrets does Mushola Al Makmur hold? This humble place of worship, nestled in the heart of Cikini, Jakarta, whispers tales of resilience and community. Mushola Al Makmur, also known as Masjid Jami’ Al-Makmur Cikini, is more than just a mosque. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of faith. It stands on land once owned by the renowned 19th-century painter, Raden Saleh. Around 1850, Raden Saleh generously allowed local Muslims to build a prayer house on his estate. This simple structure, the precursor to Mushola Al Makmur, marked the beginning of a long and sometimes tumultuous journey. Following Raden Saleh’s death, the estate changed hands, eventually becoming part of the Cikini Hospital grounds. The mosque, however, remained. The community fiercely protected this sacred space, seeing it as a waqf, a legacy from Raden Saleh himself. They refused to relocate, despite pressure from the hospital board. Prominent figures like Agus Salim, Mas Mansur, and Cokroaminoto rallied behind the community. Between 1932 and 1934, fueled by support from Sarekat Islam, they renovated and expanded the mosque, solidifying its presence. The fight for Mushola Al Makmur continued for decades. The land remained in legal limbo until 1991 when the Cikini Hospital finally bequeathed the land to the mosque. This victory cemented the mosque’s place in the community. Today, Mushola Al Makmur stands as a symbol of perseverance and the power of community. It echoes the voices of those who fought to protect it, a reminder of a rich history interwoven with the very fabric of Jakarta.