Pohuwato Grand Mosque Becomes More Comfortable with Support from the Pani Gold Project
Renovation of the Pohuwato Grand Mosque has entered its next phase. Following the earlier construction of the minaret, main gate, and repainting of the fence, this stage focused on upgrading supporting facilities with the support of the Pani Gold Project, a business unit of PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk. This gold mining project, under PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk, is located in Hulawa Village, Buntulia District, Pohuwato Regency, Gorontalo, and is scheduled to begin operations in early 2026.
On Saturday, August 16, 2025, the mosque’s management and congregation held a thanksgiving ceremony to mark the completion of the latest improvements, including the renovation of ablution and restroom facilities for men and women, as well as the construction of a connecting corridor leading from the purification area to the mosque’s main prayer hall. The upgraded facilities now appear cleaner and more organized.
Pohuwato Deputy Regent Iwan S. Adam, who attended the event, expressed his appreciation for the company’s support. “On behalf of the local government, we extend our sincere gratitude for this renovation,” he said. “The ablution area is now comparable to those in major city mosques.” He also encouraged the congregation to maintain the new facilities and voiced his hope that similar support would reach mosques at the subdistrict level.
Ramon Abdjul, Chairman of the mosque’s management board, noted that the Pani Gold Project has consistently supported renovations in stages. “We hope the company will continue these improvements, as they will enhance the devotion of our congregation,” he said.
The thanksgiving ceremony was also attended by Pohuwato Regional House Speaker Beni Nento, Provincial Assembly Member Muhammad Dzikyan, Assistant I for Government and Welfare Arman Mohamad, religious leader KH Fahri Djafar, and dozens of orphans from Sumayah Orphanage and Hidayatullah Islamic Boarding School. From the company, Pani Gold Project President Boyke P. Abidin and his management team were present.
“This is proof that the prayers of the Grand Mosque congregation have been answered,” Boyke said. “We ask for your prayers so that by March next year, the Pani Gold Project can begin production.” He also reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the local community. “Do not regard the company as outsiders. We are part of the people of Bumi Panua,” he added, referring to the local nickname for Pohuwato Regency.
In his brief sermon, KH Fahri Djafar reminded the congregation of the importance of gratitude, quoting Surah Ibrahim, verse 7. He urged worshippers to care for the newly renovated facilities so they can continue to benefit the community.
