Demolition of adjacent mosque, church only rumors, says Governor

Jakarta Governor Fauzi Bowo denied rumors that a mosque and a church that have existed side-by-side for more than half century near North Jakarta’s Tanjung Priok port would be demolished.

Previously, rumors had it that the Mahanaim church and Al-Muqarrabbin mosque would be destroyed due to the expansion project of Jl.Enggano in North Jakarta.

According to Fauzi, his administration had never planned to widen the street. He said the street was wide enough and no longer needed to be expanded.

“I am sure the rumors are created by parties who want to destroy my administration's image,” said Fauzi on Friday at Baitul Rahman mosque in Rawa Buaya, West Jakarta, as quoted by kompas.com.

The adjacent houses of worship became symbols of religious tolerance in the area as their congregations share a close and peaceful relationship. The church was established in 1957, while the mosque was erected beside it two years later.

“They have become the symbol of religious tolerance in Jakarta. So we should respect and protect them,” said Fauzi.(riz/iwa)