Kalijaga Journal of Communication
Vol. 8 No. 1 (2026)

Mosques in the Digital Era: Contesting Sacred Space, Culture, and the Identity of Generation Z Muslims

Siti Fadilla (Universitas Sanata Dharma, Yogyakarta, Indonesia)
Deddy Desmal (Institut Seni Indonesia Padang Panjang, Padang Panjang, Indonesia)
Muhammad Ritzky Saibi (Universitas Multi Data Palembang, Palembang, Indonesia)
Muhammad Deni Putra (Universitas Islam Negeri Mahmud Yunus Batusangkar, Tanah Datar, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Jun 2026

Abstract

The digital era has transformed mosques from purely sacred spaces into hybrid spaces that integrate both physical and digital dimensions. This study aims to analyze the dynamics of contestation over values, culture, and the identities of Generation Z Muslims during this transformation. Using a critical qualitative literature review, the study explores how negotiations over the meaning of sacredness emerge as worship practices, preaching, and community life in mosques become infused with digital technologies. The findings reveal that digitalization does not necessarily erode sacredness; rather, it becomes a medium for its redefinition, shaped by tensions between traditional authority, local cultural values, and the logic of digital efficiency. Generation Z emerges as a key actor shaping a hybrid Islamic identity by blending ritual piety with digital participation, such as through social media da’wah content and sharia-based financial applications. However, this transformation faces concrete challenges, including gaps in digital infrastructure and literacy among mosque administrators and congregants. The significance of this study lies in its contribution to enriching the discourse in the sociology of religion by positioning technology not merely as a tool, but as part of broader processes of cultural adaptation and identity formation. The study underscores the need for a holistic mosque management approach that balances technological integration with the preservation of the community’s spiritual and cultural values.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

kjc

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences Other

Description

KKalijaga Journal of Communication always places studies related to Islamic broadcasting and journalism as the main focus on academic inquiry and invites comprehensive observations of multidisciplinary studies. The journal, which functions as a forum for the study of Islamic broadcasting in ...