History of Masjid Jamek (Jamek Mosque), Kuala Lumpur

Masjid Jamek, also known as Jamek Mosque, is one of the oldest mosques in Kuala Lumpur, officially opened in 1909 by the Sultan of Selangor. It was designed by Arthur Benison Hubback, a British architect who used a blend of Moorish, Islamic, and Mughal architectural styles. The mosque is located at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak Rivers, which is also the birthplace of Kuala Lumpur. Before the construction of Masjid Negara in 1965, Masjid Jamek served as the city’s main mosque. It holds great historical significance as a center for Islamic worship and culture, and its architectural beauty remains a landmark in Kuala Lumpur.

Things to Do at Masjid Jamek

1. Admire the Architecture: The mosque’s Moorish and Mughal design, with its domes, minarets, and arches, makes it one of Kuala Lumpur’s most iconic buildings. The white and red brick patterns and graceful columns provide stunning photo opportunities.
2. Tour the Mosque: Visitors can take a guided or self-guided tour to explore the mosque’s interior, including its prayer halls and courtyards. Modest dress is required, and robes are available for visitors who need them.
3. Learn About Islamic Culture: Information panels and educational programs provide insights into the history of the mosque and Islam in Malaysia.
4. Participate in Prayers: For Muslim visitors, Masjid Jamek offers regular daily prayers, and it’s particularly busy during Friday prayers.

How to Get to Masjid Jamek

• By Train: The mosque is easily accessible via the Masjid Jamek LRT Station, which connects both the Kelana Jaya Line and the Ampang Line.
• By Bus: The Go KL City Bus (Purple Line) stops near the mosque. Alternatively, many public buses have routes passing nearby.
• By Taxi or Ride-hailing Services: Grab or local taxis can take you directly to the mosque.

Activities and Tourist Attractions Near Masjid Jamek

1. River of Life: Just outside the mosque, the River of Life project has transformed the Klang River into a beautiful, illuminated waterway with LED-lit fountains and walking paths, creating a scenic spot for evening strolls.
2. Merdeka Square (Dataran Merdeka): A short walk from the mosque, this historical square is where the Malaysian flag was first raised in 1957. It is surrounded by colonial-era buildings, including the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.
3. Central Market: A nearby cultural landmark where visitors can explore local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Malaysian products. It’s a vibrant spot for shopping and learning about local arts.
4. Sultan Abdul Samad Building: One of Kuala Lumpur’s most iconic colonial buildings, located near Masjid Jamek. The building houses government offices and is an important historical site.
5. Kuala Lumpur City Gallery: Learn about the history and development of Kuala Lumpur through exhibitions and displays, and don’t miss the scale model of the city.

Where to Eat Near Masjid Jamek

1. Restoran Jai Hind: Located near Masjid Jamek, this restaurant serves delicious North Indian cuisine, including biryanis, curries, and roti.
2. Kedai Kopi Lai Foong: A short walk away, this local eatery is known for its beef noodles and other Chinese-Malaysian dishes.
3. Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant: For vegetarian visitors, this restaurant offers South Indian vegetarian dishes such as dosa, thali, and curries.
4. Precious Old China: Situated in Central Market, this charming restaurant serves Peranakan (Nyonya) cuisine, blending Chinese and Malay influences in dishes like laksa and asam pedas.
5. Coliseum Café: A short walk from the mosque, this historical café serves Western and Malaysian dishes in a vintage setting, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Masjid Jamek offers visitors a chance to experience Islamic culture, historical architecture, and nearby tourist attractions, making it a key destination for anyone visiting Kuala Lumpur.