Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh,
Every Friday, Mushola Hsinchu becomes a gathering point for dozens of Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI) in the Hsinchu area, Taiwan. The congregational Friday prayer not only fulfills a religious obligation but also serves as a space for silaturahmi and a source of morale for those living abroad. Attendance coordination is facilitated through the WhatsApp group of the Hsinchu PMI community. The mosque committee regularly sends Friday prayer schedule reminders, usually starting at 12:30 corresponding to the local Dzuhur (noon prayer) time. This digital communication method has proven effective in increasing participation among worshippers who have busy and varied work schedules.
Worshipper Enthusiasm
As prayer time approaches, Mushola Hsinchu begins to fill with worshippers from various work sectors. They take time from their break or adjust their work schedules to fulfil their Friday prayer obligation. The Friday khutbah (sermon) at Mushola Hsinchu is delivered in Indonesian with content relevant to Muslim life in a predominantly non-Muslim country. Topics such as maintaining faith, brotherhood, and patience are central to the discussions.
Religious and Social Functions
In addition to being a place of worship, Friday prayer at Mushola Hsinchu serves as:
- Strengthening Religious Identity : Maintaining Islamic worship practices in a demanding work environment.
- A Space for Silaturahmi : Bringing together PMI from various companies and residences in the Hsinchu area.
- Mental Support : Providing spiritual peace for workers who are far from their families.
- Information Exchange : Facilitating the sharing of work experiences, job vacancy information, and practical assistance for life in Taiwan.
Role of the Committee and Active Worshippers
The continuity of Friday prayers owes much to the role of HIA committee members and active worshippers who consistently invite their peers. Regular attendance at congregational Friday prayers brings positive impacts for PMI, including fulfilment of religious obligations, maintenance of mental health through spiritual rituals, formation of a support system abroad, and development of a social network among workers.
Invitation to Participate
Hsinchu Islamic Association (HIA) invites all Muslims in the Hsinchu area to join the congregational Friday prayer. The schedule follows the local Dzuhur prayer time and is open to all.
Information and Coordination: Admin HIA: +886 965 605 252 | Email: mushola.hsinchu@gmail.com
Wassalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.