NORTH PENAJAM PASER — Masjid Assalam WIKA Balikpapan held mosque management training through its SMART program on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, in the first-floor hall of the North Penajam Paser Regent’s Office.
The event was attended by 100 participants from mosque management boards (DKM) across North Penajam Paser. The Indonesian Mosque Council (DMI) of Penajam District also took part.
The SMART event was attended by North Penajam Paser Deputy Regent Abdul Waris Muin and Penajam DMI Chairman KH. M. Rifa’i Remba, Lc. Their presence demonstrated support for strengthening mosque organizers’ ability to manage religious activities and community services.
The training was delivered by Masjid Assalam Chairman H. Rachman Tanjung and Executive Chairman H. Muhammad Dheny M.J. They shared experience of transformation and management strategies implemented at Masjid Assalam WIKA Balikpapan.
Supporting Mosques in Cities and Remote Areas
SMART aims to help organizers of mosques and prayer rooms, in both urban and remote areas, develop more focused management.
The program seeks to increase attendance, encourage growth in donation-box income, and support the development of mosque business units.
Participants gained insights into program planning, congregational services, cooperation among DKM members, donation management, and mosque-based economic activities.
The training also emphasized understanding community needs. Mosque programs should reflect the congregation’s circumstances so that local people can experience tangible benefits.
Mosque Management Begins with the Organizers
The speakers explained that good management must begin within the DKM. Organizers need a shared vision, clearly assigned duties, and a commitment to continual learning and evaluation.
Organizers were also encouraged to visit and survey worshippers. These steps help management boards understand community needs and identify potential that can be developed through mosque programs.
With focused management, a mosque is expected to serve not only as a place of worship but also as a centre for Islamic outreach, education, social services, and community economic empowerment.
Exchange of Commemorative Plaques
The event also included an exchange of commemorative plaques as an expression of appreciation and fellowship.
The North Penajam Paser Regent’s Office presented a plaque to representatives of Masjid Assalam. Masjid Assalam then presented plaques to the Regent’s Office and the Chairman of Penajam DMI.
The exchange symbolized appreciation and a commitment to strengthen collaboration in mosque training and development across North Penajam Paser.
Through SMART, Masjid Assalam hopes that its management experience can provide useful learning material for organizers of mosques and prayer rooms.
This spirit is reflected in the principle:
“A mosque may be small, but its contribution to the community should be great.”
SMART is expected to continue reaching other mosques and prayer rooms, helping them become increasingly active, independent, and effective in addressing community needs.
