Kuala Lumpur Attractions: National Mosque

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The National Mosque of Malaysia is located in Kuala Lumpur. The mosque can accommodate up to15,000 people at one time and is surrounded by lush greeneries which expands to a 13-acre land.

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One interesting about the mosque is that it was actually built on the site of a church in 1965. The mosque has been standing firm on its grounds since then and is now deemed as an important symbol of the Islamic country of Malaysia.

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The main dome of the National Mosque is designed in the shape of an 18-point star to represent the 13 states of Malaysia and the five central Pillars of Islam, and has the appearance of a partly opened umbrella roof which symbolises the aspirations of an independent nation.

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Caligraphy art spotted at the main entrance of the National Mosque. This is the word ‘Allah’ in Arabic, the name of God whom the Muslims worship.

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Mirroring water fountains spotted in the mosque, making it such a serene sight to behold.

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Peaceful courtyard surrounded by water fountains

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National mosque is open to public’s visit at certain hours during non prayer time and as this is a place of worship for Muslims, tourists will need to dress up appropriately before entering the mosque.

Whether visiting alone, or as a group, it is important to follow the guidelines for clothing and behaviour so as not to cause offence. For groups, it is important not to talk loudly, thus disturbing anyone who may be at prayer.

Clothing should be modest for both men and women. For women this means an ankle length skirt or trousers, which should not be tight or transparent, together with a long sleeved and high- necked top. A headscarf is usually essential for women. Shoes are removed before going into the prayer hall and put on the racks provided. Clean and presentable socks, stockings, or tights are therefore a good idea.

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If you are not dressed appropriately, just head over to the registration counter, jot down your name and time of visit and grab a set of clothing that consists of a pair robe, and a pair of scarves for the ladies.

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Put on the robe to cover up your body before entering the mosque. Donning the robe can be quite tricky to some, so if you need assistance donning the robe or head scarves, just ask the staffs to help you out. They are very helpful.

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Once you’re covered up appropriately, you will be allowed to enter the mosque to visit.

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This is deemed appropriately dressed. One must be covered up nicely from top to toe and for ladies, hair should be decently covered with a scarf. To visit the prayer hall, walk quietly into the hall, and sit on the floor, avoiding pointing the feet in the direction of the Qibla, the wall with the niche or alcove in it, indicating the direction of Makkah. If you happened to be visiting as a group during a time when prayers are taking place, sit together toward the rear of the hall.

When Salat, one of the five daily prayer is in progress, non-Muslim visitors are welcomed but simply to observe rather than to join in. If arriving at such a time, find a place near the rear wall and sit quietly observing the prayer. No sacred or blessed food will be offered, nor will visitors be expected to make any physical gesture of respect to holy objects except removing their shoes and acting respectfully in the prayer hall. Vistors may be greeted by the Arabic greeting “Assalamualaikum” which means “peace be upon you.” The answer, if the visitor would like to use it, is “Wa ‘alaikum-as-salam”, which means “peace be upon you too”. Do not offer, or expect, to shake hands with people of the opposite sex.

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As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mosques, its unique modern design embodies a contemporary expression of traditional Islamic art, calligraphy and ornamentation.

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National Mosque is a place of worship for Muslims. But apart from being a place of worship, it is also a community centre where plenty of religion related activities and events is held. Apart from the 5 times daily prayers, common events that’s held daily over here are Quranic classes and solemnization of marriage.

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Religious class ongoing

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A happy couple spotted after their solemnization of marriage in the National Mosque.

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At the back garden of the mosque is ‘Makam Pahlawan’, a mausoleum where the deceased leaders of the country were laid to rest. It is opened to visitors any time of the day.

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Prayer before entering the mausoleum. Muslims are encouraged to recite the prayer before entering the mausoleum.

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Here is where the late Prime Ministers of Malaysia and their deputies were laid to rest.

The National Mosque is located right next to the architecturally fabulous old railway station, and just a short walk to the sprawling Lake Gardens and National Monument and KL Bird Park and is great to visit if you live cultural stuff or would like to learn more about Islam.

The easiest way to get to the National Mosque is via taxi. Per trip via taxi should set you back about RM20 from anywhere within the city center and about RM75 via taxi from KLIA. If you want to opt for a cheaper means of transportation, you can take the RapidKL bus (B101 and B112) and get off at the Dayabumi Complex. From the complex, you can walk to the National Mosque. If you plan to take the KTM Kommuter, just remember to stop at the Old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station. You will need to walk towards the National Mosque.

Location info

Masjid Negara
Jalan Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Office Number:+603 2693 7905
Opening Hours:06:30am – 01:00pm, 
02:30pm – 04:00pm,
05:30pm – 07:00pm.

23 comments

  1. Rika says:

    Hi, the National Mosque looks great, the architecture is beautiful.

    I have to point out though, is there any fact supporting your statement that Malaysia is an Islamic country?

    • GarfieldWTF says:

      Dear Rika,
      From your blog, I can see that you a Malaysian.
      I am so tempted to ask you, “what were you smoking when you were at school last time? So high until the teachers teach us about our country details also can dunno ar? ”
      Lol
      Every Malaysian also know what is our national religion lah.
      😂😂😂😂😂
      Sorry ar, I’m not trying to be offensive, just too funny already. Lol
      😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

  2. Arisa Chow says:

    It’s good that they allow other races in as long they are decently dressed. Don’t think i’ll ever have a problem because i always wear fully covered clothes lol

  3. Leona says:

    actually one time i walked through this mosque before while on my way to somewhere in KL and I really marvelled at how beautiful and picturesque it is, the fountains and all wow, amazing peaceful place.

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