The Shrine of Datuk Shaykh al-Azhar (Indonesian: Makam Datuk Keramat Syech al-Azhar) is a historic shrine located on Jalan Sudirman street in the area of Pasar Taluk in Kuantan Singingi Regency, Riau, Indonesia. It contains the grave of a Sufi Muslim cleric who introduced Islam to the city of Teluk Kuantan.
Shaykh al-Azhar was a Muslim Sufi of the Shattari order as well as a disciple of the renowned Sufi mystic Burhanuddin Ulakan.[1][2] He was reportedly the first to introduce Islam to Teluk Kuantan; this happened in either the 17th or 18th centuries CE.[1][2] Azhar was buried here, and his tomb became a well-visited pilgrimage spot for the local Shattari community.[3] Even now, it is still visited often by both locals and tourists.[4][5]
The shrine holds significant cultural and religious value for the local community. It serves as a site for annual religious gatherings and Sufi rituals. The pilgrimage to the shrine is particularly popular during Islamic holidays and special commemorative events, drawing visitors from various parts of Indonesia.[6]
The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Indonesian and Islamic styles, featuring a simple yet elegant design. The courtyard of the shrine includes a large tree, which adds to the serene and contemplative atmosphere of the site. The tomb itself is well-maintained, with regular renovations ensuring its preservation as a historical and religious landmark.[2]