Do you know that the Kampong Lambak Mosque was destroyed during World War II? Today we stand before Masjid Lambak in Bandar Seri Begawan. This mosque serves the community of Kampong Lambak.
Mosques have long marked Brunei’s skyline. Back in 1578 a Spanish traveler described Brunei’s main mosque as a five-layered structure. The Kampong Lambak Mosque is one of over 102 mosques constructed by the government in Brunei. These mosques aren’t just for prayer. They are used for communal and religious events. These events include Quran readings religious lectures and dinners.
Before the Second World War many mosques were built in the countryside. However the only mosque in the capital city was Masjid Marbut Pak Tunggal. It was also known as Masjid Pekan Brunei. Sultan Mohammad Jamalul Alam II built it. This mosque stood near the current Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. It was made of timber with an asbestos roof. It also had a small rocket-like minaret. Sadly the Japanese occupation saw its destruction.
Immediately after the war a temporary mosque was built. It accommodated about 500 worshippers. It stood where the TAIB Building is today. This was more a prayer hall than a proper mosque. The structure was timber. The roof was thatched palm leaves. The walls were nipah leaves. A small tower sat on the roof. It was always known as Masjid Kajang after its roof material. It was used until 1958. That was when the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque opened.
Masjid Kajang was small. For bigger gatherings prayers were held outside. They were held at the Padang now known as Taman Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien. Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien himself prayed there with his people.
In 1949 a committee was formed. It explored building a national mosque. In December 1952 they suggested the Padang. However Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien wanted the riverside site. At that time it was the town center.
These facts highlight the evolution of mosques in Brunei. They serve as religious centers and symbols of resilience. They reflect Brunei’s history and cultural identity. Next time you pass a mosque remember its story. Remember its role in Brunei’s rich heritage. Masjid Lambak and other mosques stand as testaments to faith and community.