Indonesia Prepares State Mosque in Nusantara for Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026
Nusantra, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has announced that the State Mosque in the future capital, Nusantara (IKN), is being prepared for full operations during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr in 2026, marking a key milestone in the development of the new seat of government.
Speaking on Sunday during an inspection of the mosque, Umar said, “We came here to assess the ongoing preparations for activities at this mosque ahead of the upcoming Ramadan,” and expressed hope that President Prabowo Subianto would visit the landmark house of worship.
The inspection was conducted alongside Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) head Basuki Hadimuljono as construction and operational readiness enter their final stages. Umar emphasized that the State Mosque, together with facilities for other faiths, is central to portraying Nusantara as an inclusive capital that reflects Indonesia’s religious and cultural diversity.
“This is an important symbol of harmony and coexistence in the new capital,” he stated.
Umar further noted that the Ministry of Religious Affairs plans to begin operating from Nusantara in the near future, highlighting the continued momentum in developing the city, which spans parts of North Penajam Paser and Kutai Kartanegara Districts. “The sooner we demonstrate this progress to the world, the better. God willing, IKN will become a new national icon and a source of pride, in line with the President’s vision,” he said.
Earlier on Sunday, the minister led the inaugural congregational dawn prayer and delivered a sermon at the six-story State Mosque, which includes two mezzanine floors and can currently accommodate 29,095 worshippers. Covering a total area of 76,647 square meters, the mosque’s capacity is planned to expand to host around 60,000 worshippers in the future, meeting anticipated demand as Nusantara develops.
During the visit, Umar also received a briefing on the construction of the IKN Basilica, which has entered its finishing stage. The Catholic church is part of the Nusantara Worship Area, which will also include facilities for Protestant, Hindu, and Buddhist communities, underscoring the government’s commitment to religious inclusivity in the new capital.
