How to Explore Malaysia’s Popular Spot: The National Mosque (Masjid Negara)

The National Mosque (Masjid Negara), located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is a large-scale mosque that can accommodate over 8,000 people. Malaysia, being a multi-ethnic country, has many mosques for Muslims, but among them, the National Mosque is one of the most famous. As a symbolic landmark of Kuala Lumpur, it is also popular with tourists. Its convenient transportation access makes it easy to stop by in between city sightseeing. Here, we will introduce the highlights and tourist information about the National Mosque.

1. About the National Mosque

The National Mosque was built in 1965 as a symbol of Malaysia’s declaration of independence in 1963. Its official name is "Masjid Negara," and it boasts the largest capacity in the country, accommodating over 8,000 people. The mosque's walls are adorned with intricate geometric patterns, and the prayer hall’s eighteen-pointed roof is painted in a vivid blue color, making the exterior truly impressive. It’s no wonder that it’s a favorite among tourists.

2. The Beautiful Decorated Minaret

A minaret is a tower commonly found in Islamic mosques. This 72-meter-high minaret not only calls worshippers to prayer five times a day but also serves as an important decorative element of the mosque’s exterior. Like the outer walls, it is adorned with geometric patterns, and its beauty is breathtaking. On clear days, the white tower contrasts strikingly with the blue sky, offering an excellent photo opportunity.

3. The Vivid Blue Dome

When people think of mosques, they often imagine onion-shaped domes, but the National Mosque’s prayer hall roof has a unique design. Shaped like an open umbrella or a star, it makes a bold impression. The eighteen-pointed roof symbolizes the Five Pillars of Islam and Malaysia’s 13 states.
The vivid blue star-shaped roof gives the mosque a modern feel, setting it apart from other exotic mosques in Malaysia. Since there are other famous mosques near Kuala Lumpur—like the Blue Mosque and the Pink Mosque—comparing them as part of your sightseeing is highly recommended.

4. The Mausoleum of Four Politicians

The National Mosque houses a mausoleum where four former Malaysian leaders are buried: Ismail Abdul Rahman, Abdul Razak, Hussein Onn, and Ghafar Baba. Here’s a brief introduction to these figures:
Ismail Abdul Rahman: The namesake of Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, a neighborhood popular among Japanese residents. Of Chinese descent, he served as Malaysia’s first UN and US ambassador, later becoming the Foreign Minister and eventually the Deputy Prime Minister in 1970.

Abdul Razak: Became Malaysia’s Prime Minister in 1970. He worked hard to eliminate economic disparities and poverty between ethnic groups, earning the title "Father of Malaysia’s Development" after his death.

Hussein Onn: Succeeded Abdul Razak as Malaysia’s third Prime Minister in 1976. Like Razak, he promoted policies to correct economic imbalances between ethnic groups.

Ghafar Baba: Served as Minister of Rural Development and became Deputy Prime Minister in 1986, holding both positions simultaneously. The mausoleum, marked by its distinctive star-shaped dome, is open to visitors.

5. Entry for Non-Muslims

The National Mosque is a place of worship for Muslims. While it is open to tourists, non-Muslims are not allowed to enter during prayer times. Be mindful of the visiting hours when planning your trip.
Visiting Hours for Non-Muslims:
Monday to Thursday: 9:00–12:00 / 15:00–16:00 / 17:30–18:30
Friday: 15:00–16:00 / 17:30–18:30

6. Access

A 5-minute walk from Kuala Lumpur Station on the KTM Seremban Line/Port Klang Line.

◎ Women Must Wear Robes!

When visiting the mosque, women are required to cover their skin, and exposed areas are strictly prohibited. At the reception, robes that cover the entire body and a headscarf called a "tudung" are available for rent, so make sure to wear them. Additionally, men wearing shorts that expose their knees are also required to wear a robe, so please take note of this rule.

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

How to Explore Malaysia’s Popular Spot: The National Mosque (Masjid Negara)