The National Mosque of Malaysia, or Masjid Negara, is one of the most impressive and iconic landmarks of Kuala Lumpur. It is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of the country’s history, culture, and identity. Whether you are a Muslim or not, you will find this mosque to be a fascinating and inspiring place to visit.
In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about the National Mosque of Malaysia, from its history and architecture, to its visiting tips and nearby attractions. You will also discover some of the best ways to experience the mosque, such as joining a guided tour, attending a prayer session, or exploring the gardens.
By the end of this article, you will be ready to plan your trip to the National Mosque of Malaysia and enjoy its beauty and significance.
History of the National Mosque of Malaysia
The National Mosque of Malaysia was built in the late 1950s, shortly after the country gained its independence from the British colonial rule. The mosque was intended to symbolize the aspirations and hopes of the newly formed nation, as well as to serve as a place of worship and a center of Islamic learning. The mosque was officially opened on August 27, 1965, by the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman. Since then, the mosque has witnessed many historical moments, such as the funeral of the second Prime Minister, Tun Abdul Razak, in 1976, and the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1984.
The mosque was originally designed by a team of three architects: Howard Ashley, Hisham Albakri, and Baharuddin Kassim. They were inspired by the Grand Mosque of Mecca, the holiest site in Islam, and incorporated elements of traditional Malay and modern Islamic architecture. The mosque underwent several renovations and expansions over the years, such as the addition of the mausoleum, the library, and the conference hall. Today, the mosque can accommodate up to 15,000 worshippers and is one of the largest and most influential mosques in Southeast Asia.
Architecture of the National Mosque of Malaysia
The National Mosque of Malaysia is a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture, blending traditional and contemporary styles. The most striking feature of the mosque is its 18-pointed star-shaped dome, which resembles an open umbrella. The dome represents the unity and diversity of the 13 states of Malaysia and the five pillars of Islam. The dome is also covered with blue and green tiles, creating a stunning contrast with the white walls and pillars. The minaret, which stands at 73 meters tall, is shaped like a pencil and has a five-tiered roof, symbolizing the five pillars of Islam and the five daily prayers.
The mosque is surrounded by lush gardens and fountains, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The gardens are divided into three sections: the courtyard, the terrace, and the orchard. The courtyard is the main entrance to the mosque, where visitors can admire the dome and the minaret. The terrace is the area around the prayer hall, where visitors can enjoy the views of the gardens and the city. The orchard is the area behind the mosque, where visitors can find various fruit trees and plants. The gardens also feature several sculptures and monuments, such as the National Monument, the Independence Fountain, and the Friendship Fountain.
The mosque has several halls and rooms, such as the main prayer hall, which can accommodate up to 15,000 worshippers, the mausoleum, which houses the tombs of several national leaders, and the library, which contains a collection of Islamic books and manuscripts. The mosque also has a conference hall, a lecture hall, a gallery, and a museum, where visitors can learn more about the history and culture of Islam and Malaysia.
Visiting the National Mosque of Malaysia
If you are interested in visiting the National Mosque of Malaysia, here are some things you need to know. The mosque is open to the public from 9 am to 12 pm, 3 pm to 4 pm, and 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm daily, except on Fridays and during prayer times. The admission is free, but you need to register at the counter and get a visitor pass. You also need to dress modestly and respectfully, covering your arms, legs, and hair. You can borrow a robe and a headscarf from the counter if you don’t have your own. You also need to remove your shoes before entering the mosque and avoid making noise or taking photos inside the prayer hall.
The mosque is located at Jalan Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, and you can reach it by bus, train, taxi, or car. Some of the nearby attractions that you can visit are the Islamic Arts Museum, the Lake Gardens, and the National Monument. You can also find many restaurants and hotels in the vicinity, catering to different tastes and budgets. If you want to make the most of your visit, you can book a guided tour or a hotel package that includes the mosque and other attractions. You can find more information and options on our website.
How to Experience the National Mosque of Malaysia
Visiting the National Mosque of Malaysia is not only a sightseeing activity, but also a cultural and spiritual experience. There are many ways to experience the mosque, depending on your interests and preferences. Here are some of the best ways to experience the National Mosque of Malaysia:
Join a guided tour:
If you want to learn more about the history and architecture of the mosque, you can join a guided tour that will take you around the mosque and explain its features and significance. You can also ask questions and interact with the guide and other visitors. The guided tours are available in English, Malay, Arabic, and Mandarin, and last for about an hour. You can book a guided tour online or at the counter.
Attend a prayer session:
If you want to witness the religious and communal aspect of the mosque, you can attend a prayer session that is held five times a day. You can observe the rituals and practices of the Muslim worshippers, such as the call to prayer, the ablution, and the prostration. You can also join the prayer if you are a Muslim or wish to convert to Islam. You can check the prayer times online or at the counter.
Explore the gardens:
If you want to enjoy the natural and artistic beauty of the mosque, you can explore the gardens that surround the mosque. You can stroll along the pathways, admire the sculptures and fountains, and relax in the shade of the trees and plants. You can also spot some birds and butterflies that frequent the gardens. The gardens are open from 7 am to 7 pm daily, and are free to enter.
Visit the museum:
If you want to discover the cultural and historical treasures of the mosque, you can visit the museum that is located inside the mosque. The museum showcases various exhibits and artifacts related to the mosque, Islam, and Malaysia, such as models, paintings, photographs, coins, and manuscripts. You can also watch some documentaries and videos that tell the stories and events of the mosque and the nation. The museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily, and charges a nominal fee for entry.
The National Mosque of Malaysia is more than just a place of worship. It is a symbol of faith and freedom, a reflection of culture and identity, and a source of inspiration and education. It is one of the most beautiful and impressive mosques in the world, and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Kuala Lumpur. Whether you are a Muslim or not, you will find something to admire and appreciate in this mosque.
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