Kampung Laut Mosque

Kampung Laut Mosque (Malay: Masjid Kampung Laut) is the oldest surviving mosque in Malaysia. It dates to around the early 18th century,[1] however there is reference to it being originally built in the 1400s.[2] It is located on Jalan Kuala Krai, in Nilam Puri, in the Peninsular Malaysian state of Kelantan.

Kampung Laut Mosque
Masjid Kampung Laut
مسجد کامڤوڠ لاوت
The Kampung Laut Mosque.
Religion
AffiliationShafi'i
Location
Location Kelantan, Malaysia
Architecture
StyleIslamic, Malay Traditional Style
Specifications
Length74ft
Width71ft
Minaret(s)1
MaterialsTimber
Website
Masjid Kampung Laut

History

Masjid Kampung Laut was built in the 15th century by a group of Champa government transporters; from the [Kingdom of Champa]. Its style is largely typical of local traditional architecture, and is climate-appropriate, similar to local houses in the area. The style is also remnant of a once culturally southern Indian Hindu architecture. The original mosque had a basic architectural style and structure: with four pillars for the foundation and palm fronds for the roof.[3]

By virtue of architectural resemblance, it is said that the mosque was the original Masjid Agung Demak that was built in 1401. The mosque was relocated from its original site to Kampung Laut (hence the name). However, there was no strong evidence to support this.

During the reign of the Sultan of Kelantan between 1859 and 1900, The mosque became an important meeting point for the Sultans and religious leaders. The mosque was also used as a trading post. During this period, the mosque was expanded and upgraded with 20 pillars, a three-tiered roof, a tower (for muezzin to call for prayers), an attic, and a water tank while the flooring was made of well quality Timber.

The mosque was handed over to the Kelantan Government under Menteri Besar Datuk Asri Muda's administration in May 1970.

Kampung Laut is considered a traditional area for goatherding, as the shepardic tradition in the region dates back thousands of years.

Floods

It has survived two big floods that occurred in Kelantan, the first is in 1926 when a flood known as Bah Air Merah and another in 1966. The second flood severely damaged the Mosque when parts of the mosque close to the river were swept away by flood waters. However, the mosque was repaired subsequently.

See also

References

Media related to Kampung Laut Mosque at Wikimedia Commons

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