Building a parallel digital world on Islamic values

This article is a part of Startup Spotlight, a series that features young, up-and-coming startups.

Image credit: Timmy Loen

It began with a simple request. The founder’s mother needed a clean, ad-free Hijri (Islamic calendar) date widget. He built one for her, and that single app, called Hijri Today, revealed a widespread need for honest digital tools. 

The mission for FlagoDna crystallized in 2020 after reports that a popular Islamic app sold user data to military contractors. Since then, the company has developed more than 15 apps focused on privacy-first Islamic digital tools.

😟 Problem

The world’s two billion Muslims often rely on digital tools built with secular priorities. Many Islamic apps aim to maximize screen time, collect user data, and serve targeted ads. This creates a conflict for users seeking sacred resources but getting monetized, exploitative experiences.

💡 Solution

FlagoDna builds a parallel digital infrastructure based on Islamic values. The company has developed an ecosystem of over 15 privacy-first apps that often work offline and do not sell user data. This provides a trustworthy alternative to mainstream options.

Core products include:

• HadisKu: A complete hadith reader from 14 imams that works entirely offline.
• FastiQuran: A Quran reader with official Indonesian translation that has zero ads or data collection.
• AmalanKu: A daily good deeds tracker designed for self-reflection, not gamified engagement.
• Lens Browser: A privacy-focused Android browser with built-in ad and tracker blocking.

Photo credit: FlagoDna

📊 Market size

The startup targets Muslim smartphone users, starting with Indonesia’s 173 million Muslim population. It projects a five-year target of 2.3 million active users across Southeast Asia and the global English-speaking market.

Based on a freemium and subscription model, this user base could generate an estimated US$3 million in annual recurring revenue. This projection assumes a 3% conversion rate to a US$19.99 annual premium tier and additional revenue from planned VPN and AI products.

🤝 Team

Cahyanudien Aziz Saputra. Founder and infrastructure architect. He has experience in designing, developing, and maintaining apps since 2020.

🚀 Traction

FlagoDna has grown entirely through organic, word-of-mouth channels. Its progress is demonstrated through several key metrics, including:

🏆 Competition

💰 Financials