The Contribution of the Hubbul Wathan Islamic Center Mosque to MSME Development in Mataram City

Abstract

This study analyses the contribution of the Hubbul Wathan Islamic Center Mosque to micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) development in Mataram City and identifies its supporting and inhibiting factors. A descriptive qualitative field design was used. Data were obtained through observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation from eleven purposively selected informants: seven MSME operators, one management officer, and three visitors. Source and technique triangulation strengthened credibility. The findings show that the mosque functions as both a worship facility and a religious-tourism destination that creates visitor flows and market access. Local operators sell food, beverages, souvenirs, and other visitor needs, and some are permitted to trade without rental charges. Contribution occurs through business opportunities, employment, community participation, and local income circulation. Supporting factors include the strategic location, 99-metre tower, prayer and ablution facilities, toilets, courtyards, parking, multipurpose hall, pilgrimage-training facilities, cleanliness, and religious or social activities. Benefits vary according to product, trading time, mobility, and visitor intensity. Cited daily revenue ranged from about IDR 100,000 during a quiet period to approximately IDR 300,000 for a regularly stationed vendor; another vendor reported around IDR 400,000 at an alternative location. Constraints include fluctuating demand, competition, informal use of parking space, limited designated trading areas, and the need to protect worship, order, cleanliness, and comfort. Sustainable mosque-based empowerment requires a zoned MSME area, transparent vendor governance, hygiene and product standards, event planning, digital promotion, business records, local-product curation, and continuous stakeholder collaboration