Masjid Istiqlal, Jakarta's iconic mosque, is gearing up for Ramadan 2025 with impressive plans to provide substantial support to its worshippers and the community at large. According to Imam Besar Masjid Istiqlal, Nasaruddin Umar, the mosque will be serving 4,000 iftar meals every day throughout the holy month. "We are anticipating the high demand because of the many new programs at Masjid Istiqlal; hence, we have increased the meals to 4,000 boxes here," Umar stated on February 28, 2025, reported by Antara.
The initiative aims to satisfy the growing number of attendees during Ramadan, with standard attendance reaching at least 3,000 people on regular days. Umar pointed out, "On Fridays, the number can even climb to between 6,000 to 10,000 people, depending on specific events." This acknowledgment of the increased flow of worshippers highlights the mosque’s role as not just a place of prayer, but as a vibrant community hub.
Aside from the iftar meals, Masjid Istiqlal will also be launching the Kampung Ramadhan Internasional program, which features various Islamic activities aimed at enhancing the community's religious engagement. These will include daily tadarus Al-Qur'an sessions and the implementation of 24-hour worship during the last ten days of Ramadan. "Masjid Istiqlal has long-term and short-term programs, including Islamic studies aimed at enlightening and strengthening interfaith harmony," Umar explained during the press conference.
Masjid Istiqlal's approach stands out as it integrates community service with spirituality. With the provision of 4,000 meals for both iftar and sahur, the mosque is also targeting not only the regular worshippers but also the travelers and those who are less fortunate. "Every day we provide these meals for those who need them, ensuring everyone can participate fully during Ramadan," Omar emphasized.
Significantly, the mosque is preparing to offer free accommodation for 40 guests who travel to Jakarta to worship. This includes breakfast, allowing visitors from outside the city to engage comfortably with the Ramadan activities. Umar regards this as an extension of the mosque’s role, saying, "The services we provide here aim to make worship easier and more enjoyable for everyone, especially during the holy month."
The reverberations of these initiatives go beyond just immediate benefits. According to Umar, the mosque is also recognized internationally for its productive management and empowerment of the community through its varied programs. "Masjid Istiqlal is seen as active and involved, even offering workshops on mosque management to various parts of the world," he noted.
Umar also highlighted the high level of interfaith tolerance observed during Ramadan activities. "Ramadhan in Indonesia is extraordinary. The tolerance here is very high, with many non-Muslims also contributing to social activities throughout the month," he said, demonstrating the inclusive spirit of the events and the unity of the community.
With these comprehensive plans for Ramadan 2025, Masjid Istiqlal reaffirms its commitment not just as Indonesia's largest mosque but as a pivotal organization delivering services and fostering community cohesion.
These programs at Masjid Istiqlal are anticipated to provide meaningful experiences for all, reinforcing the mosque’s dedication to supporting the needs of its community and enhancing the significance of Ramadan. The mosque is set to become not only a place of worship but also a beacon of hope and unity during this holy period.