On Tuesday (21/2) morning, news circulated on social media about the closure of the gates of the Istiqlal Mosque for visitors. The Istiqlal Mosque Management Agency (BPPMI) felt the need to provide clarification.

In an official statement received by Republika.co.id, Tuesday (21/2), the Secretary of the Istiqlal Mosque Management Agency (BPPMI), Rusli Effendi, clarified that what had been circulating so far did not lead to misunderstandings. BPPMI also appeals to all Muslims not to be influenced by news that cannot be accounted for.

The news about the locking of the mosque so that people cannot pray Fajr is a hoax or a lie. The closing of the mosque is already a regulation or procedure at Istiqlal.

The following is an explanation: The Istiqlal Mosque Management Agency since 2002 has enforced a rule (SOP), closing the gates every night at 21.30. The mosque was reopened in the morning at 03.40, ahead of the Fajr prayer service. This rule (SOP) was enforced in order to optimize mosque security at night. All pilgrims are not allowed to stay in the Istiqlal Mosque area, except under certain conditions and with the permission of the security forces and the leadership of BPPMI.

Regarding the conditions at night from 20 to the early hours of February 21 2017, the Istiqlal Mosque security forces have explained to the worshipers gathered in the courtyard of the Istiqlal Mosque about the procedure and they understand and are willing to leave the Istiqlal Mosque area.

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. There was also no special communication from the authorities regarding this matter.

The Istiqlal Mosque always serves the people and strives for national unity and unity, and always maintains the comfort of worship.

BPPMI stated that the negative news that had been spread on social media regarding the above matters did not correspond to reality and tended to contain provocations.

BPPMI appeals to all Muslims to be asked not to be influenced by news that cannot be accounted for.

The implementation of the Fajr prayer at the Istiqlal Mosque today went well and smoothly, led by Ustaz Salim Ghazali. The number of worshipers is about 240 people (170 men and 70 women).