Aceh’s Mosques Rebuild After Devastating Floods: A Look at Disaster Resilience in Religious Spaces
Nearly a year after catastrophic floods and landslides swept through Aceh Province, Indonesia, a remarkable 98% of mosques and musallas (smaller prayer spaces) are back in operation, according to the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs. While many are functioning in an “emergency condition,” the swift recovery highlights the importance of these religious centers to the community and the ongoing efforts to rebuild lives.
The Scale of the Disaster and Initial Impact
Late 2025 saw unprecedented flooding and landslides impact Aceh, along with North Sumatra and West Sumatra. In Aceh alone, 18 regencies/cities were affected, resulting in a tragic loss of 562 lives, with 29 people still missing as of February 7, 2026. Beyond the human cost, the disaster caused widespread damage: over 74,000 residents remain displaced, and more than 255,000 homes, 641 places of worship, 2,805 educational facilities, and 141 health facilities were damaged. 649 bridges and 1,648 roads were also impacted.
Mosques as Centers of Community and Rapid Response
The fact that 725 out of 737 mosques and musallas are operational is a testament to the resilience of the Acehnese people. Azhari, Head of the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ Aceh Regional Office, noted that many facilities were used even in damaged states, demonstrating their central role in community life during emergencies. This underscores the vital function mosques often play beyond religious practice – serving as shelters, distribution points for aid, and centers for community support.
Challenges Remain: 12 Facilities Still Unusable
Despite the overall positive recovery rate, 12 mosques and musallas remain unusable. The Baitul Banian Serbajadi musalla in East Aceh Regency and At Taqarrub Riseh Teungoh mosque in North Aceh Regency were completely swept away by floodwaters. Several others in Bener Meriah Regency and Gayo Lues Regency are also still undergoing repairs.
Government Assistance and the Road to Full Restoration
The Indonesian government is providing assistance for renovations, covering varying degrees of damage. Aid includes resources for essential needs like water pumps, generators, and prayer mats. Azhari expressed hope that restoration will be completed before Ramadan, allowing residents to worship comfortably. This highlights the sensitivity surrounding religious spaces and the desire to restore normalcy as quickly as possible.
The Role of Kakanwil Kemenag Aceh: Azhari
Leading the recovery efforts is Azhari, the Head of the Aceh Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Appointed to the position in May 2023, Azhari previously served as the Head of the Islamic Affairs Division within the same office. He has a long history of service within the Ministry of Religious Affairs, beginning his career as a teacher in Sabang in 1999.
Future Trends in Disaster Resilience for Religious Buildings
The Aceh recovery offers valuable lessons for building resilience in religious spaces globally. Here are some potential future trends:
Strengthened Building Codes and Materials
Expect increased adoption of stricter building codes in disaster-prone areas, specifically for religious buildings. This may include requirements for elevated foundations, reinforced structures, and flood-resistant materials.
Community-Based Disaster Preparedness Programs
Mosques and other places of worship can serve as hubs for disaster preparedness training. Programs could focus on first aid, evacuation procedures, and early warning systems, empowering communities to respond effectively.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Reconstruction
Future reconstruction efforts may prioritize sustainable building practices, utilizing locally sourced materials and eco-friendly designs to minimize environmental impact and promote long-term resilience.
Digital Documentation and Risk Assessment
Utilizing technologies like GIS mapping and drone imagery to document the condition of religious buildings and assess their vulnerability to disasters will grow more common. This data can inform targeted mitigation efforts.
FAQ
Q: What is a musalla?
A: A musalla is a building used for Islamic prayer, similar to a mosque, but generally smaller and may not have all the features of a full mosque.
Q: How is the Indonesian government assisting with the restoration?
A: The government is providing financial aid to purchase essential supplies like water pumps, generators, and prayer mats, as well as funding for building renovations.
Q: Who is Azhari?
A: Azhari is the Head of the Aceh Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, leading the recovery efforts for religious buildings in the province.
Did you know? Mosques often serve as vital community hubs during disasters, providing shelter, aid distribution, and emotional support.
Pro Tip: When planning construction in disaster-prone areas, consider elevating critical infrastructure and using flood-resistant materials.
This recovery effort in Aceh demonstrates the enduring spirit of faith and community. As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, prioritizing the resilience of religious spaces will be crucial for supporting communities worldwide. Share your thoughts on disaster preparedness in the comments below!
