Ever wondered about a mosque that stands as a symbol of community solidarity? That’s Masjid Muhajirin. Let’s explore its story.
Masjid Muhajirin, opened on April 8, 1977, holds a special place in history. It was the first mosque built in Toa Payoh town. It was also the first project funded by the Mosque Building Fund. This fund is now known as the Mosque Building and Mendaki Fund. Community contributions also played a vital role.
The name Masjid Muhajirin is significant. It comes from the Arabic word “Muhajirun.” This term refers to the Muslims who followed Prophet Muhammad on his hijrah. This was his journey from Mecca to Medina in the 7th century.
The story of Masjid Muhajirin begins with the Persatuan Kebajikan Muslim Toa Payoh. This was the Muslim Benevolent Society of Toa Payoh. It formed in the late 1960s to help disadvantaged families. From 1971, the society and volunteers worked hard. They raised funds for the mosque through various means. These included house-to-house collections and donations. Hawkers, businesses, and charity sales also contributed. These efforts raised about half of the construction cost. The mosque cost nearly $900,000 to build.
Originally, Masjid Muhajirin had a distinctive look. It featured an onion-shaped dome atop its minaret. This design reflected Persian-Indian architectural influences. However, the mosque was later rebuilt. It became part of the Singapore Islamic Hub. The rebuilt Masjid Muhajirin reopened in 2009.
The current Masjid Muhajirin showcases Islamic architecture. It features archways and stylized floral designs. Geometric motifs add to its beauty. The tiered roof is clad with ochre tiles. These tiles are a hallmark of Malay design.
Masjid Muhajirin is more than just a building. It is a hub for Islamic congregation and education. It serves the Muslim community in Toa Payoh and beyond. The mosque can accommodate 1400 people. Masjid Muhajirin stands as a testament to community spirit. It embodies self-sufficiency. It reflects the principles of Iman, Ilmu, and Amal: Faith, Knowledge, and Deeds.
You can easily reach Masjid Muhajirin from Braddell MRT station. Its location is 275 Braddell Road Singapore. The Singapore Islamic Hub is nearby. You can see the Muis Building there.