RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Former vice president Jusuf Kalla (JK), who now chairs the Indonesian Mosque Council (DMI), urged that mosques serve not only as places of worship but also as centers of Islamic civilization. He emphasized their role in uniting communities, fostering knowledge, and strengthening moral and economic foundations.

Speaking during a tarawih sermon at Sunda Kelapa Grand Mosque in Jakarta on Monday, March 9, Kalla highlighted Indonesia’s unique position as the country with the largest Muslim population and the highest number of mosques in the world, estimated at around 800,000.

“Mosques are first and foremost places of worship. We pray five times a day, perform tarawih, and carry out other religious practices. But their function does not stop there. Mosques are also places of unity,” he said, as quoted by Antara.

JK noted that mosques bring together Muslims from diverse backgrounds and organizations, such as Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah, without barriers. He stressed that beyond worship and unity, mosques should play a central role in shaping civilization. “Civilization is born from faith, knowledge, and good behavior. That is why mosques must encourage people to seek knowledge, improve their skills, and build character,” he said.

He also underlined the importance of strengthening Muslims' economic capacity, pointing to Prophet Muhammad’s long experience as a trader before becoming a messenger. “Working hard and striving are part of the Prophet’s sunnah. Mosques must also encourage the community to develop strong economic capabilities,” JK said.

JK reminded worshippers that global progress today is driven by science and technology, and Muslims must enhance their mastery of knowledge to avoid being left behind. He expressed hope that mosques would inspire unity, learning, moral strength, and community welfare.

“Mosques must guide worshippers toward progress, unity, knowledge, hard work, and good character. In this way, mosques truly become centers of Islamic civilization,” he said. ***