AKULTURASI BUDAYA DALAM ARSITEKTUR MASJID AL-ISLAM MUHAMMAD CHENG HO SRIWIJAYA PALEMBANG

Abstract

The arrival of Islam in Indonesia has had a significant impact on the social and cultural dynamics of society, including the adaptation of Islamic places of worship in their architectural forms. Mosques in the Indonesian archipelago subsequently developed by integrating local cultural elements with external influences, resulting in unique and diverse architectural expressions. One remarkable example is the Al-Islam Muhammad Cheng Ho Sriwijaya Mosque in Palembang, which exhibits characteristics distinct from other mosques in the region. Its uniqueness is particularly evident in the interior and exterior ornaments, which clearly reflect cultural acculturation. This study aims to analyze the forms of cultural acculturation in the architectural features of the Cheng Ho Mosque using a qualitative approach through direct field observation. The findings indicate that the mosque’s architecture represents a synthesis of three major cultural elements: Chinese, Islamic (Middle Eastern/Arab), and Malay (Palembang). The Chinese influence is visible in the dominant use of red, green, and gold colors, as well as the pagoda-style roof form typical of traditional Chinese architecture. The Islamic influence is reflected in Arabic calligraphy, domes, minarets, and spatial arrangements that align with Islamic law. Meanwhile, Malay cultural elements are represented in distinctive carvings, decorative motifs, and the use of open spaces that harmonize with Palembang’s local wisdom. The integration of these three cultural elements not only highlights the mosque’s architectural uniqueness but also reinforces its role as a center of worship, education, and socio-religious activities. This study affirms that the Al-Islam Muhammad Cheng Ho Sriwijaya Mosque serves as a tangible symbol of cross-cultural harmony in Islamic architecture in Indonesia and reflects the multicultural identity of Palembang society, which is open, tolerant, and rooted in tradition.