Cheng Ho Mosque Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia

Masjid Cheng HoCheng Ho Mosque or Masjid Cheng Ho of Surabaya is located Jalan Gading No. 2,
Kelurahan Ketabang,Kecamatan Genteng. It was built by PITI an Association of Indonesian Chinese Moslem in October 2001 and finished in Oct 2002.

This mosque lies in the middle of 3.070 m2 complex, and the outset design was inspired by Masjid Niu Jie in Beijing that was built in 996. This mosque was designed without doors, as a symbol or openness for anyone, regardless the races, anyone can enter to pray here. Cheng Ho Mosque is expected to bridge pluralism, diversities among Indonesian community.

Cheng HoThe architecture is a beautiful mix of Chinese, Javanese and Arabic style. Chinese architecture which has Budhist background, Java with that of Hindu, and the Arabic where Islam came from, configured a wonderful design. The main building has 3 steps which derive from punden berundak of Javanese Hindu, but the shape is similar with octagon pagoda. 8 (Fat in Chinese) from the octagon pagoda is symbol of fortune. 5 steps at the porch derive from Pillars of Islam, and 6 steps inside the building is a representation of Pillars of Faith.

The imam room where he lead prayers was deliberately designed as door of church, to signify that Islam acknowledges and venerates Prophet Isa or Jesus is Allah’s messenger and accept Bible of Christian. It is also evidence that Islam loves peace, encourages mutual respect and tolerance.

Cheng HoThe dominant colors of the mosque are red, yellow, blue and green. In Chinese culture, red is the symbol of happiness, yellow for fame, blue for hope and green for prosperity.
At the north side of the mosque, there is a relief about Cheng Ho with his ship. In the complex, there are public facilities such as kindergarten school, offices, sport court, mandarin class and canteen. Social activities of PITI are also often undertaken here.