The organizers of the World Expo in Osaka have denied a petition asking for additional prayer areas for Muslims and adherents of other faiths because of limited space, according to an insider who spoke about the issue on Monday.
Given that just one prayer room is provided without catering to any particular faith, there are worries about whether the requirements of the Expo attendees will be adequately addressed. It’s anticipated that approximately 3.5 million individuals will arrive from abroad for this event.
Although the precise capacity hasn’t been revealed, an official from the organization mentioned that the space can probably fit about a dozen individuals at most.
As stated by the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, a prayer room will be established in a resting area within the exposition grounds, featuring segregated areas for men and women. Additionally, mats will be supplied for Muslim attendees to use during their prayers.
The Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry predicts that approximately 85 percent of expected international tourists will originate from Asia, which includes numerous Muslim travelers who adhere to the practice of praying five times daily.
In January, an Indonesian journalist, whose country holds the title of having the biggest Muslim populace globally, approached the exposition organizers regarding incorporating portable mosques. However, a high-ranking member of the organization stated that there wasn’t enough room and suggested setting up these facilities within each separate exhibit area instead.
In 2018, a company based in Tokyo created a portable mosque utilizing a 25-ton truck equipped with an extended rear area designed to form a praying zone covering approximately 48 square meters. This setup allows for roughly 50 individuals to pray simultaneously.
The vehicle comes with air conditioning units and a generator, along with water faucets designed for ritual purification before prayers.
The Indonesian reporter has raised concerns about the absence of a prayer area at the exhibition site, considering several nations have withdrawn from building their respective pavilions. They suggested that having a portable mosque might prove “helpful.”
The reporter stated, “Prayer is essential for Muslims, and it’s disheartening that providing sufficient praying areas was overlooked.”