The Istiqlal Mosque Management Agency (BPPMI) denies the news circulating on social media about the Istiqlal Mosque closing the door for worshipers who will stay overnight on Monday night, February 20 2017, and not allowing dawn prayers at Istiqlal. According to the manager, this is not true.
"Since 2002, the Istiqlal Mosque has enforced a rule to close the gate every 21.30 WIB and reopen it at 03.40 WIB before the dawn prayer," said BPPMI Secretary Rusli Efendi at the Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta, Tuesday, February 21 2017.
He said all pilgrims are not allowed to stay in the mosque area, except under certain conditions and with the permission of the security forces and the leadership of BPPMI. He had explained to the congregation gathered in the courtyard of the Istiqlal Mosque about the rules, and they understood and were willing to leave the mosque area.
"Besides, BPPMI did not receive notification from any party regarding the plans for the congregation to stay overnight, as in the previous conditions when Muslims held 411, 212, or 112 actions. In addition, there was no special communication from the authorities regarding this matter," said Rusli.
BPPMI stated that negative news about the Istiqlal Mosque which was locked and allowed the mass of the Islamic Community Forum (FUI) outside to be inconsistent with reality and tend to be filled with provocations.
"All Muslims are requested not to be influenced by news that cannot be accounted for," said Rusli.
He said, at dawn, the dawn prayer was carried out well, led by Imam Salim Ghazali and attended by 170 male and 70 female members of the congregation. The Istiqlal Mosque calls on the people to strive for national unity and unity and always maintain the comfort of worship.