Masjid Istiqlal: From Independence Symbol to Community Empowerment Hub

Masjid Istiqlal, Indonesia's largest mosque and a prominent symbol of national independence, is evolving beyond its role as a place of worship to become a dynamic center for community empowerment and moderate Islamic propagation.

Since its extensive revitalization concluded in 2021, Istiqlal has expanded its functions to encompass a wide range of activities. These include religious consultation services, social welfare initiatives, and environmental preservation efforts. The mosque has also embraced sustainability, becoming the first house of worship globally to receive a Green Building EDGE certification from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for its energy-efficient design and modern management systems.

This commitment to sustainability is evident in programs like "Clean Ramadan." Launched in 2024 in partnership with Unilever Indonesia, the initiative encourages mosque visitors and congregants to practice responsible waste management during the holy month. Through education, segregated waste bins, and collaboration with waste processing agencies, the program aims to reduce landfill waste.

The "Clean Ramadan" program has shown significant success, collecting over 35,000 kilograms of waste from 2024 to 2026. This growing volume reflects an increasing public awareness of responsible waste management, even within a religious setting. Masjid Istiqlal's transformation underscores its dedication to serving the community and promoting values of tolerance, peace, and environmental stewardship.