Ziyadatul Abrar Floating Mosque

Ziyadatul Abrar Floating Mosque: A Symphony of Maritime Architecture in Tanah Bumbu

Masjid Apung Ziyadatul Abrar is more than just a place of worship; it is the physical manifestation of the "Bumi Bersujud" (Earth Bows) philosophy, the motto of Tanah Bumbu Regency, South Kalimantan. Standing majestically in the Pagatan Beach area, Kusan Hilir District, this mosque represents architectural bravery, blending Islamic spirituality with the dynamic geographical characteristics of Kalimantan's coast. As the first floating mosque in South Kalimantan, this structure has become a new icon, transforming the urban and religious tourism landscape of the region.

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Historical Context and Development Vision

The development of Masjid Apung Ziyadatul Abrar was initiated as part of the Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) program by PT Adaro Energy Indonesia through its subsidiaries. The project began with the groundbreaking ceremony in 2020 and was functionally inaugurated for the public at the end of 2023. The primary motivation behind its construction was to create a landmark that could unite the beauty of the coastal natural environment with the solemnity of worship, while also serving as a tribute to the maritime traditions of the Bugis and Banjar communities who inhabit the Pagatan coast.

The name "Ziyadatul Abrar" itself carries a deep meaning, literally translating to "increase of goodness." The mosque's architecture is designed to reflect this name, with every inch of its structure expected to bring positive impacts, both spiritually for the congregation and economically for the surrounding community through tourism.

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Design Philosophy and Architectural Style

Visually, Masjid Apung Ziyadatul Abrar adopts a modern Middle Eastern architectural style adapted with local elements. The structure does not feature heavy traditional onion domes but instead utilizes sleeker, futuristic geometric shapes. One of the most striking elements is the design of the towering roof and minaret, which provide a strong sense of verticality amidst the horizontal expanse of the sea.

The mosque's design strongly emphasizes the concept of transparency and openness. The use of large glass windows around the main prayer hall allows maximum natural light to enter, while also offering a 180-degree view of the Java Sea. This creates a unique spiritual experience, where worshippers feel as if they are prostrating on the water, with the backdrop of crashing waves and sea breezes.

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Structural Innovation and Engineering

Building a mosque on the sea surface requires exceptional engineering precision. Masjid Apung Ziyadatul Abrar stands on hundreds of piles driven deep into the seabed to ensure stability against currents and tides. These foundations are designed to withstand saltwater corrosion, using high-specification concrete and special coatings to protect the steel reinforcement within.

The building consists of two main floors. The ground floor functions as a multi-purpose hall, ablution area, and other supporting facilities, while the upper floor serves as the main prayer hall. Access to the mosque is via a wide bridge, which also acts as a transitional area for visitors to adjust from the noise of the highway to the tranquility of the prayer space. Another innovation lies in the natural air circulation system that utilizes sea breezes, minimizing the use of mechanical air conditioning in certain areas.

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Ornaments and Interior Details

Upon entering the interior, visitors are greeted with aesthetic calligraphy and delicate ornamental details. The mosque's mihrab is designed with minimalist elegance, using materials that reflect light to create a visual focus for the congregation. The mosque floor is made of high-quality marble, providing a cool sensation amidst the hot coastal weather.

One unique feature is the artistic lighting installed on the exterior of the building. At night, LED lights integrated with the building's structure illuminate, casting reflections on the sea surface. This creates a visual effect as if the mosque is floating on light, making it a very popular photographic subject for tourists.

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Cultural and Social Significance

For the people of Tanah Bumbu, Masjid Apung Ziyadatul Abrar is more than just a civil engineering achievement. The mosque stands near the site of the "Mappanre Ri Tasi" cultural event, a traditional sea thanksgiving festival for the fishing community. Its presence strengthens the integration of religious values and local cultural values. It becomes a meeting point where past traditions and present modernity intersect harmoniously.

Socially, the mosque has become a center for new economic growth. Its existence attracts thousands of visitors weekly, which in turn revitalizes micro, small, and medium enterprises around Pagatan Beach. The mosque has successfully shifted the perception of a place of worship from being exclusive and static to an inclusive and dynamic public space.

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Visitor Experience and Current Function

Currently, Masjid Apung Ziyadatul Abrar functions fully as a place for the five daily prayers and a center for Islamic celebrations. Outside of prayer times, the mosque's courtyard and connecting bridge are favorite spots for the public to enjoy the sunset. The tranquil atmosphere, with the sound of waves breaking beneath the mosque floor, offers a rare meditative experience not often found in urban mosques.

The management also provides tourist-friendly facilities, including ample parking and good accessibility. Cleanliness is a top priority, given its location directly above the marine ecosystem. The waste disposal system is designed to avoid polluting the coastal waters, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable architecture.

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Conclusion: A Future Icon of South Kalimantan

Masjid Apung Ziyadatul Abrar is proof that religious architecture can adapt to natural challenges without losing its sacred essence. In Tanah Bumbu, this mosque stands firm as a symbol of progress, faith, and harmony with nature. Through its blend of structural innovation, design beauty, and profound philosophical meaning, Ziyadatul Abrar is not only a source of pride for the people of Pagatan but also an architectural destination worth considering at national and international levels. It is a "jewel on the water" that will continue to illuminate the coast of South Kalimantan for generations to come.