“Attap mosque.” Does that sound like a grand house of worship? It was the humble beginning of Masjid Bencoolen. Today we are not at Masjid Bencoolen. Instead, let’s explore a different sacred space. We will uncover the stories within Masjid Nusa Damai.
Masjid Nusa Damai stands not just as a building. It represents Singapore’s diverse religious landscape. Singapore recognizes 10 major religions. Islam is one of them. The Inter-Religious Organisation embraces this diversity.
Many may not realize the history of mosques here. Some grand mosques stand far from Muslim communities. This is because of Singapore’s ever-changing urban landscape.
Once, around the Singapore River, 2,000 Chulia lightermen operated. They used 500 tongkang boats. These workers also acted as traders and money changers. William Farquhar encouraged these Malacca traders. They moved to Chulia Campong, now Kampong Melaka.
As Singapore River’s importance declined, the Chulia community shifted. They moved to Serangoon Road, known as Little India. Despite these shifts, mosques remained. They began serving Muslims in the Central Business District and Chinatown.
Consider Masjid Moulana Mohd Ali. It found an unusual home in 1995. It reopened in the basement of UOB Plaza One. With a capacity of 800 worshippers, it is Singapore’s only underground mosque.
Interestingly, almost all of Singapore’s mosques, including Masjid Nusa Damai, are administered by Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura. This highlights a unified approach to Islamic affairs. One exception exists. Masjid Temenggong Daeng Ibrahim is managed by the Malaysian state of Johor.
Did you know? Twenty-six mosques were built using the Masjid Building and Mendaki Fund. This shows ongoing investment in religious infrastructure. The most recent was Masjid Yusof Ishak. It opened in 2017.
Looking at Singapore’s streets, we see religious harmony. Waterloo Street houses a synagogue, a Hindu temple, and a Buddhist temple. Nearby, Queen Street features churches.
As you explore Masjid Nusa Damai and other religious sites, remember Singapore’s commitment to diversity. Each temple, church, and mosque tells a story. They weave together a rich cultural tapestry. They promote understanding and respect. That is the true spirit of Singapore.