Wapauwe Old Mosque Preserves Maluku's Early Islamic Heritage

RRI.CO.ID, Central Maluku - Wapauwe Old Mosque preserves an important chapter of Islamic history and traditional architecture in Maluku. Located in Kaitetu, Central Maluku, the historic mosque remains part of the local community's religious and cultural life.

The mosque is believed to have been established in 1414 by Perdana Jamilu, an Islamic preacher in the Leihitu Peninsula. It was originally built around Mount Wawane before moving to Tehala and later reaching its current location.

The mosque takes its name from the local environment surrounding its present site. In the Kaitetu language, Wapauwe refers to a place or building beneath a mango tree.

Its traditional architecture remains one of the mosque's most distinctive features. The wooden structure uses traditional wooden pegs instead of nails, while sago-palm fronds form parts of its walls and are also used for the thatched roof.

The mosque also preserves historical objects connected with its long religious heritage. These include an old pulpit, drum, oil lamp, zakat scale, traditional door, and an ancient Quran manuscript.

These preserved objects provide visitors with a closer look at the development of Islam in Maluku. They also show how religious traditions continued alongside local materials, craftsmanship, and community knowledge.

Wapauwe Old Mosque has been recognized as a provincial cultural heritage site through Decree No. 291 of 2009. Its continued use as a place of worship also keeps the historic building connected with the daily life of the Kaitetu community.

For travelers exploring Maluku, the mosque offers more than a historic architectural landmark. Its religious heritage, traditional construction, and preserved artifacts provide a distinctive cultural experience rooted in centuries of local history.