Indonesia Unveils Tunnel Connecting Iconic Mosque, Cathedral
The Tunnel of Friendship, designed to emphasize the nation’s commitment to interfaith unity, was officially opened on Thursday by President Prabowo Subianto.
Construction on the 28.3-meter-long tunnel began in December 2020 under the administration of former President Joko Widodo and was completed by September 2021.
Its opening was delayed to allow for the installation of ornamental decorations that symbolize its deeper cultural and spiritual significance. Measuring 3 meters in height and 4.1 meters in width, the passage provides direct access between the mosque and cathedral grounds, serving as a tangible representation of interreligious solidarity.
Read More:
“This tunnel is not only a symbol of harmony between religious communities, but also reflects the spirit of unity and diversity that is characteristic of the Indonesian nation,” said Prabowo, Anadolu Agency reported.
“Let us together maintain harmony, tolerance, and brotherhood for an advanced, peaceful, and prosperous Indonesia,” said the 73-year-old leader.
The Istiqlal Mosque is the largest in Southeast Asia and a major national symbol of Indonesia’s Muslim-majority population.
Read More:
Opposite the mosque, the Jakarta Cathedral stands as a significant place of worship for the country’s Christian minority.
The tunnel has received international recognition for promoting interfaith dialogue. During a visit to Jakarta in September, Pope Francis, accompanied by Istiqlal Mosque Grand Imam Nasaruddin Umar, described the tunnel as an “eloquent sign” of collaboration. He praised its ability to facilitate encounters between religious traditions, fostering mutual understanding and shared humanity.
Source: Agencies
