Launch of Energy Wakaf and Energy Charity: Indonesian Muslims Strengthen Eco-Theology-Based Climate Action

Masjid is no longer just a place of ritual worship, but has transformed into a hub for environmental action. Through the ‘Nyala Ramadan’ event held at Masjid Raya Al Azhar Jababeka in Cikarang on 4 March 2026, an official Islamic philanthropic initiative was launched to support Indonesia’s national target of 100 GW of renewable energy. This initiative integrates two major programmes: Wakaf Energi from the Al Azhar Islamic Boarding School Foundation (YPI Al Azhar) and Sedekah Energi from MOSAIC (Muslims for Shared Action on Climate Impact). The collaboration adopts the concept of ‘Ekoteologi’, an approach that blends religious teachings with the moral responsibility to preserve the natural environment. The Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Prof. Dr. KH. Nasaruddin Umar, M.A., stressed that strengthening public initiatives and houses of worship is crucial in realising energy sovereignty. ‘Energy wakaf recalls the example of the Prophet’s companion, Utsman bin Affan, who endowed wells and date groves; he endowed for sovereignty of water. We, with energy wakaf, are striving for energy sovereignty. This programme converts sunlight into clean energy to energise mosques and our social facilities. It is a productive asset whose yields support education outreach and social services in a sustainable manner,’ Nasaruddin Umar said in his keynote address. Transforming mosques through solarisation This programme represents a concrete step in addressing the global climate crisis. Director of MOSAIC, Aldy Permana, revealed that prior to this collaboration, Sedekah Energi had mobilised more than 21,000 donors to fund solar panel installations at six mosques, with a total capacity of 23,525 watts peak (WP). Likewise, the management of YPI Al Azhar, Dr. H. Zahrudin Sulthani, M.A., explained that the utilisation of solar energy is highly encouraged in Islam as a form of the Qur’an’s challenge to mankind to harness energy that is beneficial. Through this collaboration, the management of community funds will be conducted transparently and in accordance with Shariah principles. Pilot project in Aceh Tamiang As a first step, the Nurul Iman Mosque in Aceh Tamiang Regency, which was affected by floods at the end of last year, was chosen as the first pilot site arising from this synergy. The project is expected to become a model of faith-based green financing that can be replicated extensively across regions in Indonesia. People who wish to contribute to this faith-based energy transition movement can channel their support through the official platform at www.wakafenergi.id. The Ramadan moment is expected to trigger a wave of renewed awareness among the faithful to give charitably in ways that are sustainable for the Earth.