Wondering about the story behind that striking star-shaped roof? That is the National Mosque of Malaysia. Locals call it Masjid Negara. This mosque stands as a symbol of Malaysia’s peaceful independence.
Completed in 1965, Masjid Negara commemorates Malaysia gaining independence from Great Britain in 1957. This happened without bloodshed. The original plan was to name it after Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj. He was Malaysia’s first Prime Minister. However, he declined the honor. He chose the name Masjid Negara instead. This was in thanksgiving for the country’s peaceful independence.
Masjid Negara is more than just a place of worship. It is a bold statement of a newly independent nation. Its modern design uses reinforced concrete. This shows the country’s aspirations. The mosque can accommodate 15000 people. It sits on 13 acres of gardens.
Notice the key features such as the 73-meter-high minaret. Look up to see the 16-pointed star concrete main roof. The umbrella is a prominent theme. It represents the tropics. The main roof looks like an open umbrella. The minaret’s cap resembles a folded one. These folded plates help create larger spaces in the main hall. Reflecting pools and fountains add to the serene atmosphere.
The National Mosque also pays homage to the Prophet Muhammad’s home. His 7th-century home had a large courtyard. Long rooms surrounded it. Columns supported these rooms. You will find many columns here.
Originally, the mosque’s roof was pink concrete. But renovations in 1987 changed it. Now, it features green and blue tiles. The roof design represents a 16-pointed star over the prayer hall. It acts like an umbrella.
The minaret is also interesting. It stands almost 240 feet high. It is topped with a folded umbrella. This continues the tropical theme. Minarets are essential to every mosque. They are used to issue the call to prayer. In the past, a muezzin would climb the stairs to perform the Adhan. Today, speakers near the top broadcast the call.
Near the Masjid Negara, you can find the Makam Pahlawan. This is the Heroes’ Mausoleum. It is a burial ground for prominent Malaysian Muslim leaders. The mausoleum’s roof is a 7-pointed star.
The National Mosque underwent renovations in 1987. The pink concrete roof was replaced with green and blue tiles. Today, Masjid Negara remains sleek and stylish. It stands out against Kuala Lumpur’s skyline. An underground passage connects it to the railway station. Its modern design blends traditional Islamic art. Calligraphy and ornamentation add to its beauty.