REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, DENPASAR – Bali is famously known as “the land of Gods”. Yet, the beauty of diversity is also another interesting element to the beautiful island. Bali also has several historical mosques –or “masjid” in Indonesian- as it reflects religious tolerance between Hindus and Muslims.
Indonesian Council of Ulama (MUI) encourages the managements of mosque in Bali to introduce the Muslim’s house of prayer to domestic and international tourists. MUI estimates several mosques in Bali have historical values.
“This island has many historical mosques. They are also related closely to the local culture within society,” the Chief of MUI Bali, Taufik As’adi, said in Denpasar.
Several historical mosques in Bali are Masjid Gelgel in Klungkung, Masjid Baitul Qodim in East Loloan, Jembrana, and Masjid Pegayaman in Singaraja, Buleleng. As’adi added, the mosque management could explain to the tourists about the history, socicial background, and inter-faith harmony in Bali. Even more, one function of mosque is to help Muslim connecting with the society. Thus, as any other social elements in Bali, Muslims can positively participate in developing the tourism.
Bali also has many Muslim figure cemeteries that are recently often visited by pilgrims, especially from Java Island. MUI recommends the tourists to firstly understand the historical side of the cemetery. Today, As’adi still studies the Balinese Muslim figures historically. “Apart from that, the Muslim society can also introduce their traditional cuisine,” he added.
About the revision of Bali Local Regulation (Perda) on Regional Spatial Layout Plan (RTRW), MUI relies on the society figures, Hinduism leader, government, and legislative. He hopes the revision of Perda is still referring to Hinduism interests, which says that all form of investment in Bali must recognize the holy buildings (Bhisama).
“We urge them to obey and conduct Perda Bhisama consequently and consistently. It becomes mutual decision among executive, legislative, and Hinduism leaders,” As’adi said.
Based on the history, Muslim has arrived in Bali since 14th century, during the reign of King Dalem Waturenggong (1480-1550 AD). When the king visited Majapahit Kingdom in East Java, then he came back to Bali and accompanied by 40 Muslim guards. The Muslims then builts Masjid Gelgel -as mentioned above.
Acculturation between Hinduism and Islam has been practiced since hundreds of year ago, as also reflected in many Muslim villages in Bali. As mentioned by Ibnu Hasyim, a writer, in Pegayaman Village, its local communities still preserve Balinese traditional culture. The Muslims even still use Balinese names such as Wayan, Nyoman, Nengah, or Ketut. Hmm.... that's interesting.
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