National Mosque of Malaysia

After our day at the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, we decided to make our way towards the National Mosque of Malaysia, or Masjid Negara. The mosque is not far from the bird park and is a relatively short walk down the road. It is a pretty neat, and free activity.

As we walked down the road, we first came upon the Islamic Art Museum. We didn’t have time to visit, because we arrived sometime around 5 PM, but if you are interested you can visit for 14 RM (~$3.33). We have read that it is worth visiting. The mosque is across the street from the museum.

Visitors Wear Purple

We weren’t entirely sure what to do at first. As we approached, it seemed that most of the visitors knew exactly what to do – which made sense as they were locals. Walking closer, we saw a few racks of robes and rows of shoes near an entrance. It turns out that it was the tourist’s entrance – conveniently – which also had information for non-Muslims and how to visit.

We grabbed purple robes and Briana also grabbed a headscarf, which is required for women. You must remove your shoes, and then you may proceed up the steps to the mosque barefoot.

The National Mosque of Malaysia sits on 13 acres, containing many gardens and fountains. It was built in 1965 on the site of a church and designed of reinforced concrete, to symbolize the newly independent Malaysia. A large umbrella-like structure creates the main roof of the prayer hall, while a 73-meter high minaret rises from a reflection pond.

White Marble and Modern

The cool white marble tile stretches the expansive compound, while white marble columns gilded with gold stretch up to a diffused glass ceiling. Intricate arabesque geometric designs create open-air walls throughout, where numerous Muslims rest and pray throughout the day. If you look closely, you can even see special solar panel setups for devotees to hook up phones to charge.

Visitors Have Limits

Walking around the compound, it is surprising at just how many tourists you see – easily identified by the color purple – but there are still many more practitioners present. Tourists are allowed to visit, but not during prayer time. The sign near the visitor’s entrance specifies exactly what those times are for each day, so you won’t be caught off guard. If you happen to show up during prayer time, don’t worry because it will only be closed for about a half-hour.

You also cannot enter the main prayer hall, as you must be Muslim. However, you can see inside through the doorway and glass windows. The room is an impressive, domed room, lined with extravagant gold and calligraphic displays.

Tombs of National Heroes

At the far end, we came upon the tombs of national heroes. These tombs, in concert with the rest of the mosque, were made of finely carved white marble and gilded with gold.

The mosque as a whole gives a very peaceful and serene atmosphere to the heat and chaos of Kuala Lumpur. Despite the heat of the day, the tile was cool and a gentle breeze was able to move throughout the entire compound.

We left the mosque just as they began to close the facility to tourists in preparation for the next prayer. As we left, we checked out the more public front plaza of the mosque.

A Great Central Location

Across the street, we saw a very interesting building and were curious about it. It turns out is the police station. It was designed in the 1900s by British and Indian architects. The stone building bears the striking arches familiar with Ottoman architecture as well as strong Gothic influences. The building is closed off to the public, but it is certainly worth taking a moment of your time to admire. With the sun setting, we decided to make our way back home, our day finished.