Nine gleaming coins three sovereigns and six dollars lay hidden beneath the foundation stone. This wasn’t just any stone. It was the cornerstone of Masjid Jamek Abdullah Hukum in Kuala Lumpur. This magnificent mosque stands as a testament to faith perseverance and the blend of cultures that shaped Kuala Lumpur.
Masjid Jamek Abdullah Hukum wasn’t the first mosque in Kuala Lumpur. An earlier mosque existed on Java Street. However it was demolished to widen the street. Masjid Jamek Abdullah Hukum was built to accommodate Kuala Lumpur’s growing Muslim population. It’s a striking example of Mughal Eclectic architecture. Onion-shaped domes chatri spires and multiple kiosk-topped minarets adorn its silhouette.
The foundation stone of Masjid Jamek Abdullah Hukum was laid on March 23 1908 by Sultan Alaudin Suleiman. The Sultan of Selangor himself oversaw the ceremony. The opening ceremony was a grand affair. It was held on December 23 1909. The event was attended by a large crowd of Malays and Muslims from other nationalities. Even many Europeans were present. Towkay Ang Seng the same contractor who built the nearby Sultan Abdul Samad Building constructed the mosque. The total cost was a considerable $33538.25 Straits Dollars. Funding came from the F.M.S Government Sultan Suleiman Alaudin Suleiman Shah and donations from Malay members of the State Council.
Tragically Masjid Jamek Abdullah Hukum was bombed by the Japanese on September 26 1941. Three worshippers lost their lives. The bombing caused considerable damage to the building. The mosque has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years. Its enduring presence speaks to its importance. It stands proudly at the confluence of the Sungai Gombak and Sungai Klang rivers. This location isn’t just scenic it’s historically significant. The site was originally a Muslim cemetery. The mosque’s resilience against frequent floods from these rivers is truly remarkable.
Today Masjid Jamek Abdullah Hukum remains a vital part of Kuala Lumpur’s landscape. It’s a place of worship a historical landmark and a symbol of the city’s rich heritage. The mosque’s grandeur its history and its enduring spirit continue to inspire awe and reverence. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Kuala Lumpur. A visit to Masjid Jamek Abdullah Hukum offers a glimpse into Kuala Lumpur’s past and present a testament to faith and architectural beauty.