Jamek Mosque, Kuala Lumpur Overview

Masjid Jamek, also known as Sultan Abdul Samak Jamek Mosque, is the oldest place of Islamic Worship in Kuala Lumpur. Also known as Friday Mosque, it is a melange of Mughal, Islam and Moorish style of architecture with pristine surrounding.

The word 'Jamek' in Arabic refers to a place where people gather to worship, and this is rightly so, as Jamek Mosque witnesses visitors from different cultures and beliefs. It was the main place of worship before Masjid Negara (National Mosque) was opened to the public in 1965.

Photos of Jamek Mosque

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Structure & Architecture of Masjid Jamek

The main prayer hall of the regal mosque is surrounded by three domes, the tallest of which measures 20 meters. On either side of the dome, lie the 25-meter tall brick minarets constructed in patterns of pink and white. The pink and white patterns are made up of brick and plaster and are known as ‘blood and bandage’. Jamek Mosque has been reconstructed and revamped a couple of times during its more than 100 years of history.

Masjid Jamek Mosque, Kuala Lumpur — The minarets of the Jamek Mosque (Source)

Historical Significance

Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque was built by British Architect Arthur Benison Hubback, an architectural assistant of the Public Work and Survey Department in 1907. The mosque was officially opened in 1909 by Sultan of Selangor. An interesting fact about the mosque is that it was built on the first burial ground in Malaysia. It was renamed as Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad in 2017, in honor of Sultan Abdul Samad, the fourth Sultan of Selangor.

Masjid Jamek, Kuala Lumpur — The stunning Jamek Mosque building (Source)

How to Reach Jamek Mosque

LRT: Take the LRT and stop at the Masjid Jamek Station. It's a 2-minute walk to the mosque from there.

Taking a taxi to the mosque is also a convenient option.

Tips

Visitors are allowed inside the mosque only after the prayer time ends.
Headscarves can be borrowed at the entrance of the temple. It is important to dress appropriately (cover the shoulders and trousers should be below the knee).
It is mandatory to remove shoes before entering the mosque.