Grand Mosque Al-Aqsha Sukamara

The Splendor of Al-Aqsha Sukamara Grand Mosque Architecture: A Spiritual Symbol and Icon of Central Kalimantan

Masjid Agung Al-Aqsha Sukamara stands not merely as a place of worship for Muslims in Sukamara Regency, but also as an artistic manifestation that combines theological values with modern aesthetics. Located in the heart of "Bumi Gawi Barinjam," this mosque has transformed into a dominant visual landmark on the city's skyline, simultaneously reflecting the religious ambitions and developmental progress in Central Kalimantan Province.

#

Historical Context and Development Vision

The construction of Masjid Agung Al-Aqsha Sukamara was part of a strategic regional government project to create a representative center of Islamic civilization in the western coastal area of Central Kalimantan. The name "Al-Aqsha" was chosen for a reason; besides referring to the holy site in Jerusalem, this name carries a deep spirit of spirituality for the local community. The construction process involved meticulous planning to ensure the building could withstand the specific soil characteristics of Kalimantan, while also providing a transitional space between the urban area and a tranquil spiritual environment.

#

Architectural Aesthetics: A Blend of Modernity and Tradition

Architecturally, Masjid Agung Al-Aqsha adopts a contemporary Middle Eastern style adapted to Indonesia's tropical climate. The most striking element of this building is its magnificent dome structure. Unlike traditional mosques in Kalimantan which often use layered wooden roofs, Al-Aqsha uses a large dome with precise geometric patterns.

The mosque's dominant colors—a blend of pure white, green accents, and touches of gold—give an impression of elegant yet serene luxury. The use of high-quality materials on the building's facade ensures that sunlight reflection is not dazzling, but rather creates a gradation of shadows that enhances the building's visual dimension.

#

Minaret Structure and Visual Symbology

One of the unique features of Masjid Agung Al-Aqsha is the presence of its towering minaret, which is asymmetrical to the main building. This minaret serves a dual purpose: functionally as a loudspeaker for the call to prayer (azan), and symbolically as a spiritual "lighthouse" visible from afar. The minaret's design adopts a slender form with a pointed apex, drawing inspiration from modern Middle Eastern minaret styles but retaining a local touch in its ornamental details.

#

Interior Innovation and Lighting Design

Upon entering the mosque's main hall, visitors are greeted by a spacious interior without many central column partitions, a structural engineering achievement that allows for a wide span. The mosque's ceiling is designed with intricate calligraphy details crafted by skilled artists. This calligraphy not only serves as decoration but also as a visual educational tool about verses from the Holy Quran.

Lighting design is a crucial element in Al-Aqsha's architecture. During the day, tall windows with stained glass or lattice work allow natural light to enter the prayer hall, creating a sacred atmosphere. At night, the exterior lighting system is designed to highlight the building's architectural curves, making the mosque appear to glow in the darkness of Sukamara city.

#

Environmental Adaptation and Green Open Spaces

The architects of Masjid Agung Al-Aqsha paid great attention to the relationship between the building and its surroundings. The mosque's courtyard is designed as a spacious public open area (plaza), often used for large-scale religious activities such as Eid al-Fitr prayers or grand religious gatherings (tablig akbar).

The courtyard floor uses natural stone material that absorbs heat, providing comfort for worshippers walking barefoot. Around the mosque, the planting of trees and the creation of small gardens serve as air filters and noise dampeners from the main road, creating a cool microclimate amidst Kalimantan's hot weather.

#

Social and Cultural Significance

For the people of Sukamara, Masjid Agung Al-Aqsha is more than just a structure of concrete and steel. It is the center of social gravity. The presence of this mosque has spurred local economic growth in its vicinity, with the emergence of community activity centers. Culturally, the mosque's architecture has become a source of local pride, demonstrating that Sukamara can possess a building of national, even international, architectural standards.

The mosque also functions as an educational center through its integrated library and meeting rooms within the building complex. Its inclusive design allows non-Muslim tourists to enjoy its architectural beauty from the courtyard area, making it a premier religious tourism destination in Central Kalimantan.

#

Material Details and Structural Durability

Considering Sukamara's location with high humidity levels, material selection for Masjid Al-Aqsha was made with long-term durability in mind. The use of anti-fungal coating paint and high-specification reinforced concrete structures ensures the building is resistant to extreme weather. Details on the main doors, made of high-quality wood with distinctive carvings, show an appreciation for local craftsmanship combined with the grandeur of modern architecture.

#

Conclusion: An Icon of Sukamara's Future

Masjid Agung Al-Aqsha Sukamara is a portrait of harmony between faith, art, and civil engineering. Its bold and magnificent architecture not only fulfills the functional need as a place of worship but also successfully captures the essence of sublime spirituality. As an iconic building, it continues to stand tall, telling the story of a religious, progressive society that values aesthetic beauty in every inch of its construction. Visitors to Sukamara will not feel complete without witnessing firsthand how the evening sunlight falls upon Al-Aqsha's golden dome, creating a silhouette that defines the identity of this regency.