How about a mosque named after Muhammad’s successor? That’s the story of Masjid Saidina Abu Bakar As-Siddiq. This prominent mosque stands in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur. It’s named after Abu Bakr. He was a significant figure in Islamic history.
Masjid Saidina Abu Bakar As-Siddiq is more than just a place of worship. Its story began with the local Muslim residents of Bangsar. Around 3500 people lived and worked nearby. They initiated the mosque’s construction in 1976. Their vision was approved in 1977. Donations poured in. The government soon took over the project. It became part of the 3rd Malaysian 5-Year Plan. Planning started in 1978 and construction finished in 1982.
The site was handed over to the contractor in 1980. The Mufti of the Federal Territories approved the qibla direction. Ground leveling began in September 1980. Finally the mosque was handed over to the government in March 1982. Sultan Ahmad Shah officiated the opening in July 1982.
Look closely. The architecture blends tradition and modernity. It features traditional Malay mosque designs. There is a minaret reaching 43.3 meters high. Arches and a dome grace the structure. The dome is 16.6 meters wide and 24 meters from the floor. Motifs add to its beauty. The design incorporates modern elements too. The mosque embraces an open concept. Air flows freely through the doors made of hard wood. Islamic patterned holes are carved within the motifs.
Originally, Masjid Saidina Abu Bakar As-Siddiq could hold 3500 people. Expansions in 2009 and 2010 increased capacity. Now it accommodates up to 4000 worshippers.
Notice anything familiar? Its architectural designs influenced other mosques. You can see similarities in the Maldives National Mosque. Also in Kuala Lumpur’s Masjid Saidina Omar al-Khattab. Masjid Saidina Uthman ibn Affan shares design elements too.
Masjid Saidina Abu Bakar As-Siddiq has three levels. The ground floor houses classrooms. Religious classes take place here. You will also find office space and a library. A multipurpose hall accommodates 200 people. A canteen and ablution areas are also on this level. The first floor is the main praying hall. Daily it hosts up to 1000 people. Its full capacity reaches 4000. The second floor offers an additional praying hall. This is for Fridays and special occasions. A school block with classrooms is on the left wing. Outside, a book shop and canteen serve the public and students.
Masjid Saidina Abu Bakar As-Siddiq once served as Malaysia’s temporary National Mosque. It received awards for this service during renovations. In May 2023, it won the Muhibbah Award. This recognized its efforts in promoting unity. It fostered muhibbah within the community.
From its humble beginnings to its architectural significance, the Masjid Saidina Abu Bakar As-Siddiq stands as a testament to community spirit. It blends tradition and modernity. It serves as a beacon of unity in Kuala Lumpur.