Indonesia’s diaspora in Texas inaugurates Masjid Istiqlal Houston, a 12-year journey
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- Masjid Istiqlal Houston was inaugurated on Feb. 7, 2026, following more than 12 years of organizing by the Indonesian American Muslim Community (IAMC) and the Indonesian Consulate General in Houston (KJRI Houston).
- Ambassador Indroyono Soesilo called the mosque a symbol of unity and Indonesian Muslim diplomacy, carrying Jakarta’s Istiqlal spirit to the United States.
- Grand Imam Muthahhir Arif said the mosque will serve worshippers while expanding into education, intercultural dialogue, and support for converts and young people.
Indonesian Ambassador to the United States Indroyono Soesilo said Masjid Istiqlal Houston is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of unity and Muslim diplomacy for Indonesians abroad.
“We hope Masjid Istiqlal Houston, although located far from Jakarta, can carry the same spirit for Muslim communities in America,” Indroyono said in a written statement received in Jakarta on Thursday (Feb. 12, 2026).
Meanwhile, Masjid Istiqlal Houston’s Grand Imam Muthahhir Arif expressed his appreciation to the Indonesian diaspora for their dedication in making the mosque’s construction a reality.
Muthahhir said the diaspora’s role was crucial in turning the mosque into a tangible place that Indonesian Muslims in Houston can now benefit from.
He also stressed that Masjid Istiqlal Houston reflects a harmonious Islam, similar to what is practiced in Indonesia, and serves as a showcase for a peaceful, tolerant and inclusive face of Islam.
Muthahhir said he is committed to ensuring Masjid Istiqlal Houston is more than a prayer space, positioning it as an educational center and a venue for intercultural dialogue.
“This mosque is a symbol of the ummah’s unity, a place for us to strengthen our faith, preserve harmonious Islam, and nurture young people who will carry Islam into the future with noble character,” he said.
He added that Muslims also carry a moral and social responsibility to support converts so they feel welcomed and receive proper guidance, noting that community support is essential to help them overcome isolation and navigate their spiritual journey with confidence.
Masjid Istiqlal Houston was inaugurated by Indonesian Ambassador to the United States Indroyono Soesilo on Feb. 7, 2026 in Houston, Texas. The mosque was established after more than 12 years of efforts by the Indonesian American Muslim Community (IAMC) and the Indonesian Consulate General in Houston (KJRI Houston) to provide a place of worship for local Indonesian Muslims.
Muthahhir Arif holds a doctorate in Islamic Studies from the Muslim University of Indonesia (UMI) in Makassar. He has preached in the United States for 10 years and has served as Grand Imam of Masjid Istiqlal Houston since 2024.
Indonesianpost.com | Republika
