New National Mosque to Replace Istiqlal in Nusantara Capital by 2025
New National Mosque to Rise in Indonesia’s future Capital
Nusantara, East Kalimantan – as Indonesia prepares for its historic move to a new capital city in Nusantara, East Kalimantan, a grand new mosque is set to take center stage as the nation’s primary place of worship.
The Presidential Communication Office confirmed that the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta, which currently holds the title of national mosque, will be succeeded by the new mosque in Nusantara. This transition reflects the symbolic shift of the nation’s heart to the burgeoning capital.
“Currently, Istiqlal Mosque functions as the national mosque. Wiht the relocation of the national capital to Nusantara, the mosque in IKN will be the national mosque,” stated Hariqo Wibawa Satria, Spokesperson for the Presidential Communication Office.
The new mosque, slated to be ready for Eid al-Fitr prayers in 2025, will initially accommodate 5,580 worshippers, with a planned maximum capacity of 60,000. Construction is currently underway, with the frist phase focusing on a four-story main building, including two mezzanine levels and two multipurpose terrace levels designated for parking.
Spanning a vast 32,125 square meters, the mosque complex will encompass a mosque and plaza building area of 60,173 square meters and a Minaret area of 427 square meters.
Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, emphasized the mosque’s meaning, stating, “We hope that this will be one of our most esteemed mosques in the future.” He also confirmed that, like Istiqlal Mosque, the new national mosque will have a grand imam.
The development of the new national mosque underscores president Prabowo Subianto’s commitment to the progress of Nusantara, a city envisioned as a symbol of Indonesia’s future.
[Image: Artist rendering of the new national mosque in Nusantara]
[Video: Time-lapse footage of the mosque’s construction]
A Symbol of Faith and the Future: An interview on indonesia’s New National mosque
NewsDirectory3.com sat down with Dr. Siti Aminah, an expert on Indonesian architecture and religious symbolism, to discuss the significance of the upcoming national mosque in Nusantara.
NewsDirectory3: Dr. Aminah, the construction of Indonesia’s new national mosque is underway. What does this project signify for the nation?
Dr. Aminah: This mosque embodies more than just a place of worship. It represents Indonesia’s ambitious vision for the future. Choosing to build this grand mosque in Nusantara, the new capital, symbolically anchors faith and national identity in this burgeoning center of progress. Its a powerful statement about the role of Islam in shaping indonesia’s future.
NewsDirectory3: The mosque’s design reportedly incorporates modern elements while respecting traditional architectural principles. Can you elaborate on this?
Dr. Aminah: the architects have skillfully blended contemporary design elements with familiar Indonesian motifs. You see this in the use of local materials, the geometry inspired by traditional mosques, and modern interpretations of Islamic ornamentation. This creates a space that feels both innovative and deeply connected to Indonesia’s heritage.
NewsDirectory3: The mosque is expected to be completed in time for Eid al-Fitr prayers in 2025. What impact do you anticipate this monumental building will have on the Muslim community in Indonesia?
Dr. Aminah: I believe it will become a source of immense pride and unity for Muslims across Indonesia. It will serve not only as a place for prayer but also as a center for Islamic learning, cultural events, and community gatherings. It will be a beacon of faith and a reminder of the enduring strength of Islam in Indonesia.