Neglecting Classic Worship Spaces: Masjid, Meunasah, and Balee E-Beut in Acehnese Society

The neglect of traditional religious architecture, such as the Tuha Mosque, Meunasah, and Balee e-beut, is a significant and concerning phenomenon in Acehnese society. Rapid modernization and the massive influence of global media have been a force in this neglect. The purpose of this study is to conduct a thorough investigation on the reasons behind the neglect of Aceh's classical houses of worship. The qualitative approach involved a comprehensive analysis of relevant literature and a number of direct observations of architectural sites and interviews with cultural figures. The research findings reveal that the neglect of Aceh's classical houses of worship is the result of many complex and interconnected factors. Society's preference for Middle Eastern architectural styles and the strong currents of modernization have been important forces underlying the neglect of classical worship spaces. At the same time, the scarcity of goods and materials appropriate to the needs of classical architecture and the skills of carvers (utoh) have become objective realities that have caused classical architecture to be unable to be rehabilitated, let alone to be built. In line with this alarming condition, it is urgent to take concrete steps in the form of initiatives to promote appreciation of local wisdom and classical cultural identity, a commitment to applying a cultural identity-oriented approach in the construction and preservation of new houses of worship.