Cheng Ho Mosque Palembang

Architecture of Cheng Ho Mosque Palembang: A Harmony of Cultural Acculturation in the Land of Sriwijaya

Masjid Cheng Ho Palembang, or officially named Masjid Al-Islam Muhammad Cheng Ho, is more than just a place of worship for Muslims in South Sumatra. This building stands as an architectural monument celebrating the convergence of two great civilizations: Chinese and Islam-Malay. Located in the Jakabaring area, this mosque serves as a symbol of tolerance and a testament to the long history of diplomatic and trade relations between China and the Nusantara.

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Design Philosophy and Architectural Style Acculturation

Visually, Masjid Cheng Ho Palembang immediately captures attention through its bold use of colors dominated by red, green, and gold. In Chinese cosmology, red symbolizes happiness and good fortune, while yellow symbolizes majesty. The use of these colors is combined with a building structure that adopts elements of traditional Chinese pagoda and temple architecture, while still maintaining the essence of a mosque's function.

The main design principle of this mosque is acculturation. Its architecture not only incorporates Chinese elements but also integrates Palembang's local identity and Middle Eastern nuances. This is evident in the shape of the main dome, which tends to be gently sloping, adorned with distinctive ornaments, and the presence of a minaret with a unique structure resembling a multi-tiered pagoda.

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Historical Context and Construction

The construction of this mosque was initiated by the Indonesian Chinese Islamic Association (PITI) of South Sumatra. The name "Cheng Ho" was chosen to honor Admiral Cheng Ho, a Muslim sailor from Yunnan, China, who led major expeditions to the Nusantara in the 15th century. Cheng Ho is believed to have stopped in Palembang during his mission to strengthen trade relations and spread messages of peace.

The mosque began construction in 2003 on an area of approximately 5,000 square meters and was inaugurated in 2006. Its construction was a collective effort by the Chinese Muslim community in Palembang to demonstrate that Islam is universal and can harmoniously blend with any cultural tradition without losing its fundamental creed.

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Minaret Structure and Unique Exterior Elements

One of the most prominent architectural features is the presence of two minarets on the right and left sides of the main building. These minarets are named "Hablum Minallah" (relationship with Allah) and "Hablum Minannas" (relationship with fellow humans). The uniqueness of these minarets lies in their five tiers, symbolizing the pillars of Islam and the five daily prayers.

Structurally, the minarets have stacked pyramidal roofs, very similar to pagoda designs in mainland China. At the top of the minarets, there are crescent moon and star ornaments that affirm their identity as Islamic buildings. The windows on the minarets are made with curved wooden frames, giving a strong oriental aesthetic touch.

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Interior Details and Symbolic Ornaments

Upon entering the mosque, visitors are greeted by a serene yet detailed atmosphere. The mosque's mihrab, where the imam leads prayers, is designed with a grand arch and adorned with Arabic calligraphy combined with Chinese floral motif carvings. This fusion creates a rich visual texture, where Islamic calligraphy meets the finesse of oriental carvings.

The mosque floor uses high-quality ceramic material with symmetrical patterns, guiding the congregation's gaze towards the qibla. The mosque ceiling is made high to ensure good air circulation (cross ventilation), a clever adaptation to Palembang's tropical climate, which tends to be hot and humid. The use of large red pillars inside the prayer hall gives an impression of sturdiness and grandeur, reminiscent of the large hall structures in Beijing's Forbidden City.

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Material Innovation and Local Aesthetics

Despite its Chinese style, Masjid Cheng Ho Palembang does not forget its local roots. Several decorative elements adopt the "Pucuk Rebung" (bamboo shoot) motif and Palembang's distinctive carvings typically found on traditional limas houses. The use of wood in some interior parts provides a warm texture that balances the coolness of concrete and ceramic materials.

Innovation is also evident in the drainage system and landscaping around the mosque. The mosque courtyard is functionally arranged to accommodate worshippers during major holidays, while the green areas surrounding it provide a natural color contrast to the dominant red of the building.

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Social Significance and Visitor Experience

For the people of Palembang, Masjid Cheng Ho has become a proud landmark. Socially, this mosque functions as a center for da'wah (Islamic propagation), education, and social activities for the surrounding community, not limited to those of Chinese descent. Its existence strengthens the narrative that Palembang is an inclusive city, open to diversity.

For tourists, visiting this mosque offers a unique sensory experience. The contrast between pagoda architecture, typically associated with temples, and the sound of the adhan (call to prayer) creates a reflective moment about religious harmony. Visitors are often impressed by the meticulous detail in every corner of the building, from the beautifully carved railings to the mosque's nameplate written in both Arabic and Mandarin scripts.

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Conclusion: A Living Architectural Heritage

Masjid Cheng Ho Palembang is an architectural masterpiece that successfully translates history into physical form. It proves that architectural styles do not have religious boundaries. By preserving traditional Chinese elements within a Malay-Islamic society, this mosque stands as a reminder of a glorious past and a vision for a harmonious future. Technically and aesthetically, this building remains one of the most significant religious architectural achievements in South Sumatra, inspiring many similar mosque constructions in various other cities across Indonesia.