The MTTJ mosque distinguishes itself as a green Islamic tourism destination through its commitment to preserving the environment
Masjid Tengku Mahkota Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah Taman Temerloh Jaya (MTTJ), formerly Masjid Temerloh Jaya, has transformed significantly since its establishment in 2010.
The mosque’s main area can accommodate around 600 people, and additional space in the foyer brings the total capacity to 1,200 people.
The MTTJ mosque started out as a humble residential mosque in Temerloh. In 2016, the mosque underwent a significant expansion and strategic planning phase.
THE THREE PILLARS OF THE STRATEGIC PLAN
MTTJ Mosque Chairman Dr Haji Abdullah Ismail shared that the mosque’s strategic plan, which began in 2016, will continue until 2025.
“The plan is structured around three main pillars,” he explained.
The strategic plan includes:
- Creating a community of excellence: This pillar emphasises the mosque’s goal of nurturing outstanding individuals. It’s about fostering a community where people strive to be the best versions of themselves spiritually, morally and socially.
- Establishing a one-stop centre: MTTJ aspires to function as a one-stop centre where everyone, regardless of religion, can go. Instead of operating exclusively during prayer times, the MTTJ mosque plans to stay open 24/7. Evolving into more than just a place for Muslims to perform their prayers, the mosque plans to include recreational events, blood donations, and carnivals in its future agenda.
- Increasing visibility: Despite its humble beginnings, MTTJ sought to gain recognition locally in Pahang and on a larger scale throughout Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN AND ITS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The design of the MTTJ mosque incorporates several features that seek to support energy-efficient systems and green initiatives.
The mosque’s main area has a spacious layout, with high ceilings and sliding doors that enhance airflow for natural ventilation. The adjacent foyer and veranda also use open-air spaces to contribute to natural cooling.
The mosque’s split air conditioning can also avoid excessive reliance on air conditioning, thus minimising energy use. Additionally, the mosque’s flat roof design aligns with its commitment to promoting energy-efficient systems.
“Our energy source is the natural source of the sun. In fact, we were the first mosque in Pahang to implement this system,” stated Abdullah.
The flat roof also enables easy installation of solar panels. This eliminates the need for complicated structural adjustments, thereby minimising the environmental impact of material extraction.
Abdullah also revealed how these features impacted the environment: “We managed to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 27.20 per cent since 2019. This is equivalent to mitigating 32.79 tonnes of carbon dioxide.”
He further emphasised the significance of reducing the mosque’s emissions, saying that: “Saving one tonne of carbon dioxide is likened to planting 25 trees. So, by reducing 32.79 tonnes of carbon dioxide, the MTTJ mosque help planted approximately 820 trees.”
In addition to these measures, MTTJ mosque has installed a water treatment system to address water wastage during ablution and other water uses.
Ablution reservoirs within the mosque are built to resemble swimming pools to manage water efficiently. Given the high daily water usage by approximately 2,000 Muslims who come for prayers, this is an essential component of the mosque’s sustainable design.
To conserve water resources, MTTJ mosque installed toilet pumps within the plumbing system. These pumps were designed to improve the force of the flush without increasing water volume.
EMBRACING MOSQUE TOURISM
“Our mosque has also become a tourist destination,” said Abdullah.
Since 2019, MTTJ mosque has grown in popularity, attracting around 200 visitors every weekend. It not only serves as a place of worship but also as a tourist destination.
The cleanliness of the mosque and its well-maintained toilet facilities, which are often the first stop for many visitors, receive consistent commendation for their accessibility and upkeep. Abdullah believes that this enhances the appeal of MTTJ mosque as a travel destination for tourists seeking deep cultural immersion.
Furthermore, the MTTJ mosque received the Diamond Recognition at the Low Carbon Cities Award 2023 for its exceptional energy and water conservation efforts. This award, presented by the Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, recognises the mosque’s proactive stance on environmental sustainability.
From its humble beginning as a residential mosque to a thriving tourist destination, the MTTJ mosque is a remarkable example of sustainable development. – RnR
Europe’s first eco-friendly mosque
The Cambridge Central Mosque in the United Kingdom blends Islamic and English architectural traditions with a focus on sustainability. Its design integrates Islamic geometry and horticulture with local English materials and craftsmanship.
Central to its philosophy is a commitment to sustainability. The mosque features an advanced eco-design, achieving a near-zero carbon footprint and marking a milestone as Europe’s first eco-friendly mosque.
Natural light fills the interior through skylights and energy-efficient LED lighting. Photovoltaic cells on the roof generate renewable energy from sunlight, supporting its environmental goals.
The mosque uses highly efficient heat pumps for heating and cooling, minimises energy use, and incorporates greywater and rainwater harvesting systems for irrigation and facilities.
As a symbol of unity and sustainability, the mosque demonstrates how architecture can honour cultural heritage while promoting a more environmentally conscious future. It also offers guided tours for visitors of diverse backgrounds.
