Picture this a bustling Jakarta street corner. Suddenly you find yourself before Masjid Al-Abror. Its presence is both serene and commanding.
Masjid Al-Abror is more than just a mosque. It’s a vital part of the Tanah Kusir community in South Jakarta. Its history stretches back to December 1st 1959. That’s when eleven dedicated individuals formed a building committee. They embarked on an ambitious project. They would build a mosque where Friday prayers could be held. Before Masjid Al-Abror’s construction people had to travel far to pray. They went to places like Pondok Betung or Pondok Pinang. Others even ventured to Pasar Kebayoran Lama.
The construction was a true testament to community spirit. Villagers worked tirelessly. They felled trees and hauled stones. They dug sand from the nearby river. All this was done with selfless devotion. The first Friday prayers were held on November 25th 1960. The mosque was initially called Masjid Al-Istizdad. This name meant ‘increasing’. It reflected the growing congregation.
In January 1977 the name changed. It became Masjid Al-Abror. Al-Abror means ‘righteous people’. The original name was deemed too difficult for many to pronounce. The new name also reflected the existing Majlis Ta’lim. This was a religious study group already active within the mosque.
The mosque’s development continued. On July 12th 1976 the land was officially Wakaf. That means it was dedicated as religious endowment. H Saaba bin H Sulaiman generously donated the land. Five witnesses signed the deed. Electricity and a loudspeaker system were installed in November 1977.
The story of Masjid Al-Abror is a living one. It’s a story of community effort faith and perseverance. It speaks of a community coming together to create a place of worship. It’s a place of solace and spiritual growth. It shows the heart of Tanah Kusir. As you stand before Masjid Al-Abror you’re not just seeing a building. You’re witnessing a testament to faith and community.