Friday, August 13, 2010

Kuala Terengganu's Floating Mosque



okay okay, I'm a sucker for this song! haha

Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque also known as Masjid Terapung is a unique design which is built on a floating platform. The mosque is built on the estuary of Terengganu River by one of the prince in Terengganu state. Combining both modern and Moorish architecture design, the mosque symbolizes the innovation and modernisation in the state. ( wiki! )

the Floating Mosque, is known as one of the icons of Islam in the state of Terengganu. Built from an idea birthed by the late Sultan of Terengganu, Al-Marhum Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah ibni al-Marhum Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah, this mosque was named after his mother, Tuanku Intan Zaharah binti Almarhum Tengku Seri Setia Raja. Constructed between 1993 and 1995, the mosque was officially opened in July 1995 by Almarhum Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah, the late Sultan of Terengganu.

The ideal time to visit this mosque is in the evening, when the evening sun shines on the mosque, turning the building into a beautiful amber shade. Plus the floating affect of the mosque looks even more interesting as the mosque will be brightly lighted and you can see its reflection on the water, as seen in the video above!


The mosque is located in Teluk Ibai, just over 4km away from Kuala Terengganu town centre. The white structure of the mosque gorunds covers and area of roughly 5 acres

The beauty of its architecture and serenity of its surrounding landscape, also draws a great number of visitors to Terengganu who take the opportunity to perform their prayers and take a breather from their journey at this mosque. The design of the mosque reflects a subtle Islamic influence combined with local features, incorporating the use of marble, ceramics, mosaic works and bomanite paving.It is large enough to accommodate between 800 to 1,000 people at once - and the minaret stands 125 feet tall. With the South China Sea as its backdrop, this mosque is undoubtedly an irresistable attraction to visitors in Terengganu and from across the peninsular.

A side note, as usual proper attires are required especially if you plan to have a look inside the mosque - dress conservatively, no shorts, mini skirts or sleeveless. Avoid also visit during prayer times especially on Friday afternoons from noon till 3.00pm.

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