Masjid Besar Al-Ikhlas Pekkabata

The Grandeur of Masjid Besar Al-Ikhlas Pekkabata's Architecture: A Symbol of Religiosity and Modernity in Polewali Mandar

Masjid Besar Al-Ikhlas Pekkabata is more than just a place of worship; it is the physical manifestation of the development of Islamic civilization in Polewali Mandar Regency (Polman), West Sulawesi. Standing firmly in a strategic location in the city center, this mosque serves as a landmark that blends modern aesthetics with local Mandar philosophy, making it one of the most iconic structures in Indonesia's 33rd province.

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Historical Context and Development Evolution

The construction of Masjid Besar Al-Ikhlas Pekkabata has a long historical root closely tied to the development of the Pekkabata area as an administrative and commercial center. Before reaching its current grandeur, the mosque began as a simple building serving the local community. With the expansion of the region and population growth in Polewali Mandar, the need for a representative center for Islamic activities became an urgency for the local government and community.

Extensive renovations carried out in recent decades have completely transformed the mosque's appearance. This transformation not only expanded the capacity for worshippers but also elevated the architectural standards of public buildings in West Sulawesi. Its construction involved collaboration between local architects, structural engineers, and strong community self-help support, reflecting the values of Sipakatuo, Sipakatau, Sipakainge (mutual living, mutual respect, and mutual reminding) highly upheld by the Mandar people.

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Design Philosophy and Architectural Style

Masjid Besar Al-Ikhlas Pekkabata adopts a modern Middle Eastern architectural style adapted to Sulawesi's tropical climate. The most striking feature is the use of a large golden dome that dominates the city's skyline. This golden color is not merely an aesthetic choice but a symbol of glory and sincerity, in line with the mosque's name itself.

The building's structure is designed with symmetrical principles, giving an impression of stability and majesty. On the exterior facade, there is a blend of minimalist strong lines with classic Islamic architectural arch accents. The use of tall pillars on the terrace creates a grand transitional space before visitors enter the main prayer hall. The architecture emphasizes openness, allowing for optimal natural air circulation, an important consideration given Polewali Mandar's rather humid temperature.

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Structural Details and Visual Innovations

One of the most unique architectural elements of Masjid Besar Al-Ikhlas is its minaret design. The minaret stands tall with a slender yet sturdy form, serving as a distant visual marker as well as a place for the call to prayer. Details at the tip of the minaret often adopt decorative elements consistent with the main dome, creating a cohesive visual harmony.

Inside, the mosque's interior offers a serene luxury. The ceiling beneath the main dome is typically adorned with precisely crafted Arabic calligraphy, often using a direct hand-painting technique on concrete surfaces or modern composite panels. The mosque's mihrab—the niche indicating the qibla direction—becomes the focal point of the interior with more intricate carvings, often combining Islamic geometric motifs with subtle touches of local Mandar carvings.

The mosque floor uses high-quality marble material that provides a cool effect. Natural lighting is maximized through tall windows with stained glass or eight-pointed star patterned grilles (rub el hizb), which allow sunlight to enter and create a poetic play of shadows on the prayer mats.

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Cultural and Social Significance

For the people of Polewali Mandar, Masjid Besar Al-Ikhlas Pekkabata is the "Heart of the City." Its function extends beyond religious rituals. This mosque is a social gravity center where Mandar cultural traditions meet universal Islamic values. On major holidays like Eid al-Fitr or the Prophet's Birthday (Maulid Nabi), the mosque area becomes a mass gathering point, where local traditions such as serving tumpeng (cone-shaped rice dish) or decorating eggs (maulid) are often seen in its outer courtyards.

Its existence also strengthens Polewali Mandar's identity as a religious region that is open to progress. The mosque's modern architecture reflects the aspirations of the Mandar people to continue advancing without abandoning their spiritual roots.

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Visitor Experience and Current Functions

Currently, Masjid Besar Al-Ikhlas Pekkabata is a primary religious tourism destination in West Sulawesi. Visitors come not only to worship but also to admire its architectural beauty. The spacious parking area and well-maintained gardens surrounding the mosque provide public space for residents to simply relax in the afternoon, fostering healthy social interaction.

Supporting facilities such as clean ablution areas, meeting rooms, and a mini library make this mosque a center for non-formal education for children through the Al-Qur'an Education Park (TPQ). The lighting at night is also a special attraction; spotlights directed at the dome and minaret provide a dramatic effect that enhances the aesthetics of Polewali Mandar city when darkness falls.

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Conclusion: An Architectural Legacy for the Future

Masjid Besar Al-Ikhlas Pekkabata is tangible proof of how architecture can be a bridge between humans, their creator, and their culture. With its grand structure and meaningful details, this mosque will continue to stand as an icon of pride for the people of West Sulawesi. It is not merely a pile of cement and steel but a visual narrative of sincerity, community strength, and the beauty of Islam in the Mandar land, which will be passed down to future generations.