Masjid Jami' Adji Amir Hasanuddin

The Architectural Grandeur of Masjid Jami' Adji Amir Hasanuddin: A Symbol of Cultural Syncretism and the Glory of the Kutai Kartanegara Sultanate

Masjid Jami' Adji Amir Hasanuddin stands robustly as one of East Kalimantan's most significant architectural monuments. Located in the historical heart of Tenggarong, Kutai Kartanegara Regency, this mosque is more than just a place of worship; it is a visual narrative of power transitions, cultural adaptations, and the aesthetic evolution of Islam in the archipelago. As an iconic structure, it silently bears witness to the glory of the Kutai Kartanegara Ing Martadipura Sultanate, while also representing the harmony between local Dayak traditions, Malay influences, and colonial touches.

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Historical Narrative and Construction Context

The construction of Masjid Jami' Adji Amir Hasanuddin is inseparable from the crucial role of Sultan Adji Muhammad Sulaiman, the 18th ruler of the Kutai Sultanate. The mosque began its permanent construction in 1874, replacing a simple wooden mushalla that previously stood on the same site. However, the magnificent form we see today is the result of extensive renovations during the reign of Sultan Adji Muhammad Parikesit (1920-1960).

The mosque's name is derived from Adji Amir Hasanuddin, a Mangkunegara (Prime Minister) of the Sultanate who had a significant influence on the spread of Islam in the Mahakam hinterlands. Its location next to the Sultan's Kedaton (Palace) reinforces the "Catur Gatra Tunggal" urban planning concept common in Nusantara kingdoms, where the mosque, palace, town square, and market are aligned on a single axis, symbolizing the balance between spirituality, power, and economy.

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Architectural Aesthetics: An Extravagant Blend

Architecturally, Masjid Jami' Adji Amir Hasanuddin employs a remarkably rich eclectic style. Its main structure adopts the principles of traditional Nusantara mosque architecture with a three-tiered roof (tajug). This roof symbolizes the levels in Sufism: Iman (Faith), Islam, and Ihsan (Excellence). However, what distinguishes it from mosques in Java is the use of ulin wood (Eusideroxylon zwageri), or Kalimantan's characteristic ironwood, which dominates the entire building frame.

The influence of Dutch or European colonial architecture is clearly visible in the design of the tall windows and doors with arched accents at the top. These windows not only serve as aesthetic elements but also as highly efficient natural ventilation systems to cope with Kalimantan's humid tropical climate. The use of colorful stained glass in the upper parts of the windows creates a dramatic effect when the morning sun penetrates the main prayer hall, fostering a sacred, meditative atmosphere.

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Structural Innovations and Unique Details

One of the most striking architectural features that defines this mosque is the presence of 16 main support pillars made from solid, whole ulin logs. These pillars have very large diameters and soar high, supporting the roof's load without extensive iron nail connections, but rather using traditional, highly precise tenon and mortise techniques.

Inside, there is a beautiful wooden pulpit with intricate Kutai carvings. These carvings combine flowing floral motifs, reflecting Malay and Dayak decorative art influences that have been adapted into Islamic values (avoiding depictions of living beings). This pulpit is considered one of the finest wooden carving masterpieces in East Kalimantan.

Furthermore, the mihrab (the niche where the Imam leads prayer) is designed with proportional depth and adorned with calligraphy carved directly into the ulin wood. The contrast between the dark color of the aged ulin wood and the gold accents on the carvings creates an impression of luxury yet humility.

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Cultural and Social Significance

Masjid Jami' Adji Amir Hasanuddin is not just the property of the Muslim community but is a collective identity of the Kutai Kartanegara people. Socially, the mosque functions as a center for cultural integration. In the past, it was a place where the Sultan met his people during major religious ceremonies such as the Prophet's Birthday (Maulid Nabi) or the Erau festival.

Erau, the largest traditional festival in Kutai, always involves this mosque in its religious procession. The harmony between royal customs and Islamic Sharia is reflected in every corner of this mosque. This makes it a center for historical learning for younger generations, demonstrating that Islam in Kalimantan developed through an inclusive and peaceful cultural approach.

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Visitor Experience and Current Conservation

Currently, Masjid Jami' Adji Amir Hasanuddin has been designated as a national Cultural Heritage Object. Visitors coming to Tenggarong typically begin their journey from the Mulawarman Museum (the former palace) and then proceed to this mosque. The experience offered is a "journey through time." Upon entering the mosque grounds, the cool air from the ulin wood and the distinct aroma of old buildings provide instant tranquility.

Although several renovations have been carried out to strengthen the structure, local authorities are very careful in preserving its original materials. The floor, now made of marble, is still aligned with the original wooden walls. Visitors can see how the ulin wood structure, over a century old, remains robust without significant signs of decay—a testament to the excellence of Kalimantan's local materials.

As a center for daily worship, the mosque remains vibrant and dynamic. The five daily prayers, regular religious study sessions, and mosque youth activities continue to pulse within it. Its existence proves that an iconic building must not only be visually beautiful but also possess a soul that continuously interacts with its community. Masjid Jami' Adji Amir Hasanuddin continues to stand as a beacon of spirituality, an architectural masterpiece bridging the glorious past of the sultanate with the modern future of East Kalimantan.