Jakarta, INTI – Innovation is no longer exclusive to business districts or industrial centers. Now, Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in Southeast Asia is embracing digital transformation through the launch of the Istiqlal AI Chatbot, offering 24/7 access to mosque-related information in a practical and interactive way via https://chat.istiqlal.or.id.
This groundbreaking initiative was officially introduced to the public during the Istiqlal Technology Talks held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, under the theme “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and National Character Development.” The event was attended by key national figures such as Ilham Akbar Habibie, Fadhilah Mathar from BAKTI Komdigi, and Yudhistira Nugraha from the Ministry of Education and Culture.
Chatbot Features: From Prayer Schedules to Directions to the Ablution Room
Built with Artificial Intelligence, the chatbot is designed to assist users by answering various questions, including prayer schedules, today’s preacher, directions to facilities like the ablution area or health room, and how to report lost items.
Unlike conventional bots, this system was built to interact in a human-like, natural conversational style, almost as if users are speaking to an actual mosque staff member. It’s been trained with extensive knowledge about Istiqlal Mosque, covering everything from historical facts and daily event schedules to a digital map of the mosque’s facilities and even basic questions about Islam.
AI as a Tool for Enhancing Religious Services
In his remarks, Ilham Akbar Habibie, Chairman of Orbit Edutech and Istiqlal’s technology partner, emphasized that AI should be developed to complement human roles, not replace them. He highlighted how this chatbot serves as a practical example of how technology can enhance the social and religious functions of a mosque.
“With an AI system that continues to learn from user interactions, the chatbot can provide fast, accurate, and relevant responses. This proves that places of worship should not be left behind in technological advancement,” he said.
Government Support and a Vision of the Future Mosque
Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs and Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque, KH Nasaruddin Umar, also expressed his full support for the initiative. He stressed that technology, when used wisely, can bring tremendous benefits to the community.
“This AI-based chatbot is an example of how mosques should not distance themselves from technology. In fact, it can be a powerful tool when applied properly,” he stated.
To ensure stable and round-the-clock operation, the chatbot is supported by Idcloudhost, serving as the platform’s data center provider.
Conclusion
With the launch of its AI chatbot, Istiqlal Mosque not only reaffirms its position as Indonesia’s national mosque and a symbol of unity, but also emerges as a pioneer in the use of technology for religious service. This innovation sets a new standard, encouraging other mosques across the country to harness technology as a bridge to better connect with worshippers and the wider public.
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