Space of Worship in High-Density Informal Settlements: Case Study of Kampong Cikini Kramat, Jakarta

Not all worshippers live in similar qualities and quantities of space. This paper discusses specifically the space of worship in informal, densely populated settlements in Jakarta known as kampongs, in which citizens occupy the space below standard (Indonesian national standard of living space = 9m2/person). Such circumstances mean that almost every daily activity undertaken by kampong inhabitants overlaps, and worship activity is no exception. To understand the site, space, and place of worship usage in kampong areas, this research aims to understand how the inhabitants create and embed sacredness, or ‘spiritual' indicators, into their worship activities. In addition to deep observation by actively participating in the kampong's worship activity, this research completed by a questionnaire survey and in-depth interviews with various people living in the kampong, both directly and indirectly related to worship activity. The research found that the limitation of space does not hinder the kampong inhabitants in carrying out their worship activities. Even though mostly always overlapping with other activities, worshippers always find a way to negotiate their worship activities in such limitations.