Masjid Jamiyyatul Khair

In the heart of Mempawah, Kalimantan Barat, stands Masjid Jamiyyatul Khair. It’s not just a mosque. It’s a living testament to the rich history of the Mempawah Islamic Kingdom. Masjid Jamiyyatul Khair whispers tales of a kingdom deeply connected to the Islamic kingdoms of South Sulawesi and the Sultanate of Riau. The dynasty’s roots trace back to the mid-18th century with Upu Daeng Manambon of Luwu. But even before this documented history, local legends and folklore weave a rich tapestry of the region’s past. The very stones of Masjid Jamiyyatul Khair seem to echo these ancient stories. Officially, Masjid Jamiyyatul Khair’s story begins on December 23, 1906. Panembahan Mempawah, Gusti Muhammad Taufiq Aqamaddin, commissioned its construction. It wasn’t the first mosque in the area. Two earlier mosques graced Kampung Siantan and Kampung Brunai. Today, Masjid Jamiyyatul Khair serves as the final resting place for Mempawah’s royalty. The mosque we see today is actually the third structure built by the Mempawah Sultanate. Its construction continued under Panembahan Gusti Amir, titled Adinata Krama Umar Kamaruddin, and Panembahan Mahmud. Now, Masjid Jamiyyatul Khair stands as a popular destination for tourists from near and far, drawn to its unique history. Visitors are captivated by the intricate carvings adorning the royal tombs within the mosque. These wooden carvings display beautifully rendered calligraphy of Quranic verses, a testament to the deep faith of the Mempawah rulers. Another fascinating aspect of Masjid Jamiyyatul Khair is the composition of its governing body. It consists of 20 members, symbolizing the 20 attributes of Allah. The core leadership comprises six individuals, representing the six pillars of faith. Five departments embody the five pillars of Islam, and 13 supporting personnel symbolize the 13 components of prayer. This unique structure reflects the mosque’s enduring commitment to spreading Islamic teachings, reaching as far as the Sambas region. Masjid Jamiyyatul Khair isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a cultural and historical landmark, a beacon of faith, and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Mempawah Kingdom.