Baznas Establishes Emergency Mosque for Earthquake-Affected Residents in Palu

The National Alms Agency (Baznas) has established an emergency mosque, named Al-Muhajirin, in Kamarora A Village, Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi, to meet the worship needs of residents affected by the earthquake. The construction of the emergency mosque is a collaboration between Baznas RI, Baznas Central Sulawesi Province, Baznas Palu City, Baznas Sigi Regency, Baznas Tojo Una-Una Regency, Baznas Parigi Moutong Regency, Baznas Morowali Regency, Baznas Banggai Regency, the Indonesian Armed Forces from Battalion 873 Masewo Masagena, Kodam XIII/Merdeka in Sigi Regency, the Police Mobile Brigade, and several muzaki who supported the disaster response efforts. The building of the Al-Muhajirin emergency mosque measures 10 metres by 10 metres.

Baznas RI’s Head of Distribution, Utilisation, and Empowerment, Idy Muzayyad, stated that the emergency mosque was built because many public facilities, including places of worship, were damaged by the earthquake and could no longer be used by the community. “We mourn the earthquake disaster in Palu, Central Sulawesi. Baznas is currently deploying a number of resources and humanitarian aid, including the construction of this emergency mosque,” Idy said in a written statement on Tuesday (23/6).

Idy explained that the post-disaster conditions had damaged many public facilities, including mosques, rendering them unusable. He noted that the presence of an emergency mosque is one of the essential needs amidst a community still striving to recover from the disaster’s impact. “Baznas built this emergency mosque as a rapid solution so that the community still has a proper and safe place of worship,” he said.

Idy further emphasised that all aid distributed by Baznas comes from zakat, infak, and sedekah entrusted by the public to Baznas for distribution to rightful recipients. “We hope this emergency mosque can be utilised as best as possible by the community for worship, as well as serve as a gathering space to strengthen solidarity among residents during the post-earthquake recovery process,” he added. Idy also expressed gratitude to all parties who collaborated with Baznas in establishing the emergency mosque.

Previously, Baznas RI had deployed its Disaster Response Team (BTB) and Healthy Home (RSB) teams to assist with evacuation, address basic needs, and provide medical services for earthquake survivors. Baznas also distributed various humanitarian aid, including 5,000 litres of clean water and thousands of ready-to-eat food packages to affected residents. Beyond logistical support, Baznas provided psychosocial support for survivors, particularly children and vulnerable groups.