Heightened Preparations for Eid Prayers

In anticipation of Eid al-Fitr 1446 Hijri, Jakarta’s iconic Istiqlal mosque is undergoing thorough sterilization and security enhancements.These measures are designed to ensure a safe and spiritually fulfilling experience for the thousands of worshippers expected to attend Eid prayers.

Mosque Closure and Sterilization

Nasaruddin Umar, the Minister of Religion and High Priest of Istiqlal Mosque, announced that the mosque will be temporarily closed to the public for comprehensive sterilization. “To ensure the health and safety of all worshippers, the Istiqlal Mosque will be sterilized. Therefore, overnight stays will not be permitted,” Umar stated following the National Takbir Akbar Gema event held at the mosque. The sterilization process commenced at midnight, with the mosque scheduled to reopen for Fajr (dawn) prayers, albeit initially only half of the mosque’s area will be accessible.

At midnight this will be sterile. It will be sterilized, so no one can spend the night at the mosque.

Nasaruddin Umar, Minister of Religion and High Priest of Istiqlal Mosque

Security measures and Public Safety

Beyond sterilization, security is a top priority. Mosque officials are urging attendees to remain vigilant, particularly concerning the safety of children. Medical personnel and first-aid facilities will be available to assist any worshippers who may require medical attention. Furthermore, attendees are strictly prohibited from bringing any items that could pose a threat to public safety.

The Istiqlal Mosque is equipped with a elegant surveillance system comprising 160 biometrics-enabled CCTV cameras. This advanced technology allows security personnel to monitor the premises effectively and respond swiftly to any suspicious activity. “We remind everyone that there are 160 CCTV cameras with biometrics. If anyone tries to be naughty, we can quickly reach them, even up to 500 meters from the mosque,” Umar explained.

Eid Prayer Details

Eid al-Fitr prayers at the Istiqlal Mosque are open to the public, welcoming worshippers from all walks of life. the sermon will be delivered by Professor ahmad Tholabi Kharlie from UIN Jakarta, focusing on the theme of ‘Caring for Fasting Fabrics’. KH Mas’ud Halimin will serve as Badal Khatib, with H Moh Salim Ghazali as Imam and KH Husni Ismail as Badal Imam. Prayers are scheduled to commence at 07:00 WIB. High-profile attendees include President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka,who are expected to perform Eid prayers at the mosque.

Ensuring a Safe and Peaceful Celebration

These comprehensive preparations underscore the commitment of Istiqlal Mosque officials to providing a safe, secure, and spiritually enriching environment for Eid al-Fitr celebrations. As millions of Muslims worldwide celebrate the end of Ramadan, the Istiqlal Mosque stands ready to welcome worshippers in a spirit of unity and devotion.