Masjid An-Nur: A Hub for the Muslim Community in Dili, Timor-Leste

Masjid An-Nur, located in Dili, Timor-Leste, is a prominent mosque situated on Rua Campo Alor in the Alor neighborhood. As one of the key mosques in the city, it is frequently visited by the Muslim community of Timor-Leste, especially for Friday prayers.

The mosque features two floors, with the first floor designated for prayer and the second floor serving as a school space. In the center of the mosque, there is a garden intended to provide a natural cooling effect. To the right, there is a wudu area, along with a simple library building that houses Islamic books and several CDs on two wooden shelves.

Masjid An-Nur was established in 1955 or 1956 through the initiative of Imam Haji Hasan Bin Abdulah Balatif, the head of the Alor neighborhood, along with the Muslim community of Dili. The establishment was approved by the Arab tribal leader at the time, Hamud bin Awad Al-Katiri. Over the years, this initiative has led to the development of a thriving Islamic community in the area.

In the early 1980s, the mosque underwent renovations led by Major General TNI Dading Kalbuadi, the Commander of the XVI/Udayana Military Command, on March 20, 1981. Today, Masjid An-Nur continues to serve as a vital center for worship and community activities for Muslims in Dili.