Indonesian craftsmen restore traditional woodcarvings at Sarajevo’s Istiklal Mosque

The initiative followed a visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina by Lestari Moerdijat, Deputy Speaker of Indonesia’s People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR), from February 16 to 19 this year. During her visit, she toured Istiklal Mosque and noticed that some of the wooden ornaments inside needed repair and maintenance.

Moerdijat held a warm and constructive discussion with the mosque’s imam, during which restoration work on the interior decorations was agreed upon.

The mosque’s interior features exquisite Jepara carvings donated by the late Indonesian President B. J. Habibie and his wife, Ainun Habibie. These carvings are more than decorative elements; they are living symbols of the affection and solidarity between the Indonesian and Bosnian peoples, the Indonesian Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina said.

The restoration initiative carries additional significance as it coincides with the 25th anniversary of the opening of Istiklal Mosque.

''This anniversary makes the mission particularly meaningful, turning it into a valuable contribution that honours the mosque’s history while reaffirming the lasting ties between Indonesia and Bosnia and Herzegovina,'' the statement said.

The restoration mission, carried out by skilled craftsmen from Jepara, a city renowned worldwide for its centuries-old woodcarving tradition, will focus on repairing several damaged decorative elements while providing comprehensive care for the remaining woodcarvings.

A testament to people-to-people ties

The restoration of Jepara woodcarvings at Istiklal Mosque is a strong example of people-to-people diplomacy. It reflects the deep emotional and cultural bonds between Indonesia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, cultivated over decades through mutual respect, solidarity and shared values.

The presence of Indonesian craftsmen in Sarajevo is more than a technical mission. It is a gesture of friendship, a reaffirmation of Indonesia’s commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and a celebration of the cultural bridges that connect the two countries.

As Istiklal Mosque marks its 25th anniversary, the restoration stands as a living testament to the enduring friendship between Indonesia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, the statement said.