Preserving Shiratal Mustaqiem, Samarinda's Oldest Mosque

TheIndonesia.co - Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, emphasized the importance of preserving Masjid Shiratal Mustaqiem—the oldest mosque in Samarinda—as a national cultural heritage site and an essential part of Indonesia's rich Islamic and cultural legacy.

"Alhamdulillah, I had the opportunity to meet with the congregation here in Samarinda. Masjid Shiratal Mustaqiem is the oldest mosque in the city and is recognized as a national cultural heritage site," said Fadli Zon during a Friday prayer visit to the historic mosque in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, according to Antara News Agency.

As the Minister of Culture, Fadli expressed his commitment to safeguarding Indonesia’s heritage, especially historic religious structures like Shiratal Mustaqiem, which has stood as a spiritual and cultural beacon since its establishment in 1881.

He called on both government institutions and the local community to work in synergy to ensure the mosque remains well-preserved, not just as a functioning place of worship, but also as a monument of national pride and religious history.

Located in the Samarinda Seberang area, the mosque is a key landmark in East Kalimantan’s capital. Its construction is entirely made from ulin wood, a dense and durable timber native to Kalimantan. From its floors and pillars to window shutters, doors, and wooden shingles on the roof, the structure reflects the craftsmanship and traditional materials of the region.

Mazbar, head of the Shiratal Mustaqiem Mosque Tourism Awareness Group, shared that the mosque is not only a center of religious life but also a hub for social unity. Community activities range from youth groups, congregational prayers, cooperative maintenance efforts, and Quranic education to hosting religious gatherings. This strong communal spirit contributed to the mosque earning second place in Indonesia’s Festival of Historic Mosques in 2003—an achievement proudly commemorated with a monument in the mosque’s front courtyard.

With an area of approximately 625 square meters and a terrace stretching 16 meters, Masjid Shiratal Mustaqiem underwent major restoration in 2001 under then-Mayor Achmad Amins. Today, it is officially protected under Indonesia’s Law No. 5 of 1992 on Cultural Heritage Objects, securing its place among the nation’s treasured historical sites.

While Masjid Shiratal Mustaqiem is a cornerstone of spiritual heritage, Samarinda itself offers travellers a wide array of experiences beyond religious tourism.

Located on the eastern coast of Borneo (Kalimantan), Samarinda is the capital of East Kalimantan Province and sits along the banks of the Mahakam River—one of Indonesia’s largest and most significant waterways.

Visitors to Samarinda can explore several natural and cultural attractions. The Mahakam River offers scenic boat tours that pass floating houses, traditional fishing communities, and vibrant river markets. These journeys provide a glimpse into the daily life of Samarinda’s riverside residents and the region’s historical reliance on water-based transport and trade.

Nature lovers can head to the Bukit Bangkirai Rainforest, located about 1.5 hours from the city. The area features towering tropical trees, a canopy bridge suspended 30 meters above the ground, and opportunities to spot wildlife like hornbills and monkeys. It's a haven for eco-tourism and a great introduction to Borneo's rich biodiversity.

For those interested in cultural heritage, the Mulawarman Museum in nearby Tenggarong offers a deep dive into the history of the Kutai Kartanegara Sultanate—one of the oldest kingdoms in Indonesia. The museum, housed in a former royal palace, displays artifacts ranging from royal regalia to Dayak traditional items, offering insights into both Islamic and indigenous heritage.

Families and casual travellers might enjoy Samarinda’s Tepian Mahakam, a well-kept riverside promenade popular for its street food, evening strolls, and views of the Mahakam River bridges. It's especially lively at sunset, when locals gather to relax by the water.

In addition, the Islamic Center Samarinda is another architectural marvel worth visiting. It’s one of the largest mosques in Southeast Asia, combining grand scale with elegant design. While Shiratal Mustaqiem speaks to the deep historical roots of Islam in the region, the Islamic Center represents its evolving modern presence.

Altogether, Samarinda offers a diverse travel experience—from sacred heritage to rainforest adventures, royal history, and riverside serenity. While the Shiratal Mustaqiem Mosque stands as a spiritual and historical anchor, the city’s other attractions provide a fuller picture of Samarinda’s cultural richness and natural beauty.