The Impact of Cultural Diversity on Mosques in Malaysia

Mansoureh Ebrahimi,Kamaruzaman Yusoff

doi:10.5539/ach.v10n2p45

Abstract

According to Malaysia Town and Country Planning Guideline and Standards (2002), two major considerations related to mosque usage and management are sufficient areas for both building and adjacent open space. As a sacred place for prostration to Almighty God, individually or in groups, mosque architecture has evolved considerably, from very simple designs and functions to more sophisticated forms and layouts. In Malaysia, various races have significantly influenced mosque design and function. The present work describes this evolution in terms of well-known mosques via qualitative observations and documentation, from earliest to latest architectural developments. Our findings demonstrate that architectural evolution and/or transformation did not alter the mosque’s main function from an Islamic perspective. Nonetheless, designs and structure did benefit usage, to include the attraction of tourists.

Highlights

The term ‘Mosque’ derives from the French word, mosquée, but originates with the Spanish term, ‘mezquita’
According to Malaysia Town and Country Planning Guideline and Standards (2002), two major considerations related to mosque usage and management are sufficient areas for both building and adjacent open space
Our findings demonstrate that architectural evolution and/or transformation did not alter the mosque’s main function from an Islamic perspective

Summary

Introduction

The term ‘Mosque’ derives from the French word, mosquée, but originates with the Spanish term, ‘mezquita’. Mosques are found everywhere in the world and architecture has developed tremendously over the centuries (Shah, 2014), they all share basic architecture components as follows: haram, qibla wall, sahn (courtyard), riwaq (arcades), mihrab (prayer niche in the qibla wall), minbar (sermon podium), minaret and maqsura These components include the dikka (a tribune for leaders), the kursi (Al-Quran holder), the maida (ablution pool), and the qubbah (dome), each with temporal and regional characteristics Light in covered areas came from the sun through several apertures, including an opening in the dome above the mihrab bay; again allowing direct connection with the sky In this manner, light was reflected by the dome’s shell and gently diffused into the prayer hall; providing a subtle and variegated display to remind congregants of their divine duty to worship Allah. Designs and structure did benefit usage, to include the attraction of tourists

History of Islamic Architecture

Mosque Architecture in Malaysia

Traditional Malay Style Mosque

Chinese Style Mosque

South Indian Style Mosque

Conclusion