Masjid Jamek Mosque is a wonderful refuge from the topsy-turvy streets of Kuala Lumpur. The traffic outside this Islamic place of worship can be unbearable, but once you’re inside, the chaos seems so far away.
Friday Mosque, as the locals call it, is right in the heart of the city. Surrounded by tall buildings, the mosque and its towering minarets stand out nonetheless. I have to say though that the surrounding skyscrapers don’t really blend well with the beauty of the mosque.
Free Admission
Yes, the admission is free. However, when it’s time for prayer, non-muslim visitors are not allowed to enter. I went there at 12:30 PM, but I was told to go back at 2:00 when it opens. Instead of exploring around under the searing heat of the sun, I went to a nearby fast-food restaurant for lunch.
Wear your sarong
Both men and women with exposed legs should wear a sarong that can be borrowed at the gate. Though it’s free, a donation box is visible on the table for you to donate whatever you can. You have to wear your sarong at all times once inside the masjid. You are allowed to take photographs in the prayer rooms, but flash is prohibited. And out of respect, ask permission when your camera is pointing to a specific person or group of worshippers.
Short History of Masjid Jamek Mosque
The mosque was built in 1909 and was declared as a National Mosque in 1965 – until a new one was erected. However, the mosque remains an important place of worship for its history, architecture and strategic location in downtown Kuala Lumpur. It is the city’s oldest mosque designed by a British architect Arthur Hubback.
Its Architecture
The first time I laid my eyes on Masjid Jamek, I knew I’ve seen it somewhere. As I circled the mosque, I figured out that its architectural style is a blend of Mughal, Moorish, and Islam.
I’ve seen some parts of its design in Jama Masjid in India, in Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, and Morocco and in Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech in Morocco.
As you can see, the mosque has three white domes. The largest of which measures 21.3 meters.
Under the tallest dome, you will find the main prayer hall.
There are two minarets, one is taller than the other.
Both minarets are coated in pink and white stripes.
I think you will appreciate the beauty of the mosque from afar.
If you have the chance, go to the back of the mosque and across the river.
Find the bridge because the views from here are breathtaking – especially when the smoke from somewhere comes out.
Hotel in Kuala Lumpur with a Sky Pool Overlooking KL’s Skyline
I stayed at Expressionz Suites by V&C near downtown Kuala Lumpur. I wrote a request to the hotel staff to give me a room with views of the city. And yay, I got what I wanted! I could see the city’s skyline right from my bed. My suite is clean and it has its own washing machine! The breakfast was good – offering both Malaysian and western food. But most of all, the main hotel amenity that everyone wants to check out is the Sky Pool! You won’t regret looking at the fantastic views here while in your wet swimwear. 😉
Read my full review of Expressionz Hotel here.
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