Mosques, integral to Islam, assume even greater significance during Ramadan. While some mosques regularly offer guided tours throughout the year, the atmosphere becomes more vibrant and festive during Ramadan, attracting local and international tourists.
The increased spiritual vibe during this holy month adds to visitors’ overall experience. With their unique atmosphere of devotion and cultural richness, mosques have become interesting tourist spots. The various activities and lively atmosphere in mosques offer an appealing opportunity for travellers interested in learning more about Islamic traditions and having a culturally enriched travel experience.
“For non-Muslim visitors to Malaysia, the most impactful experience during Ramadan would be the ubiquitous food bazaars found throughout the country with multiple offerings of food items from the multi-racial communities of Malaysia, including Malay, Chinese and Indian,” said Head of Heritage and Tourism Bureau and Coordinator of IOAC-Mosque Tour Guide Programme, Masjid Panglima Kinta, Ipoh, Fazil Shuhaimi Talib.
Fazil mentioned that certain mosques, particularly those in well-visited tourist spots with mosque tour guide programmes, arrange iftar experiences for non-Muslims. This initiative aims to enhance understanding of Muslim fasting.
He emphasised that the main attractions for Muslim visitors and tourists include the widespread availability of halal food, contributing to halal food tourism, and the presence of Muslim-friendly facilities across the country. Fazil also noted that Malaysians generally exhibit friendliness and openness towards other Muslims during Ramadan, extending hospitality during suhoor (pre-dawn meal), iftar (breaking of fast), itiqaf (mosque seclusion), and tarawih (night prayers).
“Towards the end of Ramadan, special attractions for Muslims and non-Muslim visitors and tourists are the Eid al-Fitr promotion at shopping centres around the country for the Eid al-Fitr celebration with many bargain offerings,” he added.
MASJID PANGLIMA KINTA’S RAMADAN ACTIVITIES
Fazil shared that the mosque tour guide programme at Masjid Panglima Kinta is accessible to visitors and tourists all year-round. During Ramadan, the Masjid welcomes visitors, including non-Muslims, to join its daily iftar.
“We have previously organised many iftar programmes with non-Muslim visitors and tourists. For this year’s Ramadan, Masjid Panglima Kinta will organise iftar sessions for non-Muslims, which will be promoted among them. The non-Muslim visitors and tourists will be provided a free guided tour of the Masjid, sharing sessions on the significance of Ramadan, and joining the Muslim congregation in breaking fast.
“Many non-Muslim visitors and tourists choose to visit the mosque as part of their holiday to see its unique and outstanding architecture and to take photographs. Previously, there were no guides to welcome them and explain things to them. Due to Masjid Panglima Kinta’s strategic location and being part of the promoted Ipoh Heritage Trail, the mosque is frequently visited by foreign visitors and tourists.
“IOAC-Mosque Tour Guide Programme was established to receive them as our guests and provide free guided tours explaining and sharing information regarding the features, history and function of the mosque together with information on the Islamic faith and interesting local historical and cultural information and practices.
“This activity provides the opportunity for us to connect with people of other faiths, to create a better understanding of Islam and its culture among non-Muslims, and to help reduce misconceptions about Islam. However, for non-Muslims visiting mosques, certain conditions need to be complied with, including providing trained guides to show them around and respecting the decorum of the mosque, including observing the Islamic dress code.” – RnR
The history of Masjid Panglima Kinta
Masjid Panglima Kinta, established in 1898 by Datoh Panglima Kinta Muhamad Yusuff Lassam, marked a significant era coinciding with the ‘Kinta Tin Rush,’ transforming Ipoh from a small riverine village to a bustling town. Years later, the mosque complex expanded to include Madrasah Kamaliah, Datoh Panglima Kinta’s family mausoleum, and later additions like houses for officials, ablution facilities, food stalls, and the Panglima Kinta Gallery.
The mosque, located on a 45,000-square-foot site at Jalan Masjid, Ipoh, adjacent to the Kinta River, is one of the State’s oldest and has been recognised as a heritage building since 2012. Its design and historical significance, coupled with a poignant story, led to the mosque being affectionately called ‘The Taj Mahal of Ipoh’. The narrative involves Datoh Panglima Kinta’s construction of a substantial brick mosque in memory of his late wife, Sa’adiah @ Saaidah bt Chik.
Masjid Panglima Kinta boasts a captivating architectural fusion, blending British colonial, Moghul, and Neoclassical styles. Constructed with lime plaster and bricks, the mosque’s design includes horseshoe arches, twin minarets, and a dome inspired by Moghul architecture. The octagonal twin minarets, featuring Chinese influence, house a century-old drum. Crafted in 1928 by Tuan Haji Mohamed Sopian (known among the British administrators then as ‘the genius Malay architect’), the pulpit/minbar of the mosque showcases exquisite Malay wood carving with floral motifs. This architectural marvel reflects historical and cultural richness, making Masjid Panglima Kinta a gem in Ipoh.
