Nestled at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers, Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad stands as one of the most iconic and historically significant mosques in Kuala Lumpur. With its striking Moorish-inspired architecture, peaceful setting, and rich history, this mosque is a must-visit landmark for both travellers and locals seeking to understand the roots of Malaysia’s capital.
A Glimpse Into the Past
Masjid Jamek was officially opened in December 1909 by the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah. It holds the honour of being the oldest mosque in Kuala Lumpur, built during the British colonial period when the city was rapidly evolving into a commercial and administrative hub.
The mosque was designed by British architect Arthur Benison Hubback, who also designed other prominent landmarks such as the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, Ipoh Railway Station, National Textile Museum and the old High Court building.
Before the National Mosque (Masjid Negara) was built in the 1960s, Masjid Jamek served as Kuala Lumpur’s main mosque.
Architectural Beauty
Masjid Jamek’s architecture is a visual feast, blending Islamic, Moorish, and Mughal influences with local adaptations:
- Three white domes crown the central prayer hall, the largest dome rising over the mihrab.
- The red-and-white brickwork, interspersed with white plaster, creates a striking contrast that adds to the mosque’s timeless charm.
- The mosque is surrounded by palm trees and set against the flowing rivers, offering a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The mosque underwent refurbishment in recent years and was renamed Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad in honour of Sultan Abdul Samad, the 4th Sultan of Selangor (1857–1898), under whose reign Kuala Lumpur rose to prominence.
Cultural Significance and Cultural Function
Masjid Jamek is more than just a historical landmark; it remains an active place of worship for the Muslim community in Kuala Lumpur. On Fridays and during religious festivals, the mosque comes alive with congregants from all walks of life.
For visitors, the mosque offers a window into Islamic faith and Malaysian Muslim culture, with occasional guided tours and interpretive signboards for non-Muslim guests.
Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad is not just a religious site—it is a bridge between Malaysia’s colonial past and its vibrant multicultural present. For travellers exploring Kuala Lumpur, a visit here is both a journey through history and a moment of peaceful reflection, set at the very birthplace of the city itself.
