Surely, the story of Masjid At-Taqwa begins not with grand pronouncements but with humble origins. Imagine a small musala, barely big enough for 300 people. This was Masjid At-Taqwa in 1976. It stood in the Kemanggisan tax complex in Palmerah, West Jakarta.
The story of Masjid At-Taqwa is rooted in community. Dedicated tax employees living in the Kemanggisan complex dreamed of a proper mosque. They wanted a space that could accommodate their growing needs. These generous individuals pooled their resources. Their collective spirit transformed the small musala into the grand Masjid At-Taqwa we see today.
Ustaz Ishaq Ismail, Chairman of the DKM, recounts the early days. In 1977, Masjid At-Taqwa was officially inaugurated as a place for Friday prayers. Before its expansion, residents faced difficulties. For Tarawih prayers and large gatherings, they had to borrow the local kindergarten’s hall. This arrangement proved challenging for the children.
Around 1972 or 1973, a Madrasah Islam from Al-Azhar Kebayoran Baru was established. It allowed children in the complex to learn about their religion. The community then decided to upgrade the musala to a mosque. This provided a dedicated space for the children to practice their faith.
The pivotal year was 1985. A total renovation transformed Masjid At-Taqwa into the structure it is now. The need for a larger space was driven by the growing community. The mosque now has a large parking area that stretches around half of the mosque area. The entire area spans 3,000 square meters.
Today Masjid At-Taqwa can accommodate up to 2,000 worshipers. It is managed by the Taqwa Bhakti foundation. Its striking features include its white color scheme, a large blue-green mosaic dome, and a towering minaret on its right side. Lush trees and a garden filled with yellow flowers surround the mosque.
Masjid At-Taqwa is more than just a place of worship. It is a hub for government officials. Tax officials, Ministers of Religious Affairs, and Ministers of Finance frequently visit. The story of Masjid At-Taqwa is a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and faith. From a small musala to a prominent mosque. Masjid At-Taqwa stands tall. It shows what a united community can achieve.