Beneath Singapore’s skyline stands Masjid Al-Attas. This mosque is more than just a building. It is a legacy of faith. It is also a testament to interfaith harmony.
Masjid Al-Attas has a rich history. Habib Syed Muhammad Syed Salim Al-Attas started the mosque in 1952. It was located on Lewis Road in Bukit Timah. His son, Imam Syed Hassan Mohamed Al-Attas, continued this legacy. He is affectionately known as Habib Hassan. He has been caring for the mosque for over four decades.
Habib Hassan inherited a welcoming legacy from his father. The doors of Masjid Al-Attas are open to people of all faiths. Religious leaders often visit the mosque informally. The mosque also houses artifacts from different faiths. These include ancient Bibles and Torahs.
Habib Hassan grew up with neighbors of different faiths. This early exposure shaped his commitment to interfaith work. He lived next door to Catholics. Hindus lived across the road. A close friend was Reverend Adrian Anthony. He was the former rector of Cathedral of the Good Shepherd.
Habib Hassan received the Berita Harian Anugerah Jauhari in 2019. This Achiever of the Year award recognized his contributions to interfaith work. He has created spaces for mutual understanding. In 1979, he was the first Singaporean imam to give the Eid sermon in English. He received the Inter-Religious Organisation award and the Meritorious Service Medal in 2015.
Masjid Al-Attas has strong ties with Saudi Arabia. Arab countries send dates to be distributed for Ramadan. Imams from Turkey and the UAE also visit. The mosque has a museum with a Quran collection. It also has an alleged Mekkah cover.
Every year during Ramadan, people gather at Masjid Al-Attas to break fast. The community comes together. They explore the mosque and its historical artifacts.
Masjid Al-Attas is more than just a place of worship. It is a symbol of unity. It represents the harmonious spirit of Singapore. It embodies respect and understanding between different faiths. Habib Hassan’s work ensures that this legacy continues to thrive. He is a pillar of interfaith harmony in Singapore. He inspires younger generations. He encourages them to work together for a better future.