“Closed on Sundays,” reads a small sign. But today, let’s journey back in time to when Surau Haji Salleh was more than just a mosque. It was a heartfelt tribute. Surau Haji Salleh stands as a testament to friendship and faith.
This house of worship is located at 31, Jalan Pantai Dalam, Kampung Pantai Dalam, 59200 Kuala Lumpur.
Haji Mohammad Salleh deeply respected his friend, Habib Noh. Habib Noh was a Muslim saint known for his piety. He lived in Kampung Khaji in Singapore. Kampung Khaji was then the center of religious activities. Haji Mohammad Salleh wanted to honor Habib Noh.
Haji Mohammad Salleh decided to build a surau. A surau is a small prayer hall for Habib Noh. Sadly, Habib Noh passed away in 1866. This happened before the surau was completed.
Habib Noh was buried near Mount Palmer in Singapore. This area is now known as Tanjong Pagar. A keramat was built over his tomb. A keramat is a mausoleum. The surau was then replaced. In 1903, a larger mosque was erected. It was named Masjid Haji Muhammad Salleh. This act immortalized Haji Mohammad Salleh’s devotion.
Notice the unique architecture. It reflects the era of its construction. Six mock-Corinthian columns frame the main prayer hall. These show European classical influences. The keramat also blends styles. It mixes Middle Eastern and Western designs. Tuscan columns and an onion-shaped dome create a unique harmony.
Both Muslims and non-Muslims visited Habib Noh’s keramat. They came to pay respects. This practice continues today. Even after his death, people remember him. During colonial times, pilgrims came from afar. They traveled from China and the Dutch East Indies.
Masjid Haji Muhammad Salleh has expanded over the years. In 1903, it held 200 people. Expansions in the 1950s and 1960s increased capacity to 250. In 1987, it was upgraded again. This time it could hold double the congregants.
The mosque reopened in 2017 after renovations. These renovations took two years. Now it can accommodate 900 people. Ramps and a lift were added. These improvements enhance accessibility. Throughout the process, key architectural features remained untouched.
The spirit of Haji Mohammad Salleh lives on in Surau Haji Salleh in Kuala Lumpur. It reminds us of friendship. It also reminds us of faith. The Surau Haji Salleh stands as a symbol of enduring respect. It reflects a legacy of devotion.