RRI.CO.ID, Tokyo – Indonesian Ambassador to Japan and the Federated States of Micronesia, Nurmala Kartini Sjahrir, along with Indonesia’s 10th and 12th Vice President Jusuf Kalla, inaugurated the As-Sholihin Mosque Yokohama (MAY) in Yokohama, Japan, on Friday, April 10, 2026.

In her remarks, Ambassador Kartini, expressed appreciation for the spirit of mutual cooperation shown by various parties in the construction of the mosque. “The mosque plays a role as a bridge to strengthen cultural relations, particularly between Indonesia and Japan,” Kartini said in a statement received in Jakarta on Sunday.

She added that the mosque serves not only as a place of worship, but also as a center for social activities, education, and community development that promotes the values of Islam as rahmatan lil alamin (a mercy to all creation).

Kartini also emphasized the importance for mosque administrators and congregants to comply with laws and social norms in Japan in order to maintain harmony with the local community. “We need to continue maintaining harmony with society and be more cautious on social media by considering the sensitivity of Japan’s social and cultural norms,” she said.

Meanwhile, Jusuf Kalla expressed appreciation for the solidarity and cooperation of Indonesian citizens (WNI) in Japan in establishing the mosque.

“Today we are grateful to be able to gather and inaugurate the As-Sholihin Mosque Yokohama. This is the result of cooperation and mutual support from various parties,” Jusuf Kalla said.

He added that the mosque is expected not only to function as a place of worship, but also as a means to build up ties among Indonesians in Japan. Jusuf Kalla also reminded Indonesians to adopt positive values from Japanese culture, such as discipline, cleanliness, and respect.

The As-Sholihin Mosque Yokohama was built on a 397-square-meter plot of land with a total building area of 650 square meters and can accommodate more than 600 worshippers. The three-story mosque is equipped with facilities such as a baitul maal, a halal mart, and an Islamic study room, and is expected to serve as a center for religious and social activities in Yokohama.