May-June . 2024

Greenery around the Sultan Iskandar Mosque .

The Sultan Iskandar Mosque goes beyond its religious function to promote intercultural understanding , education , and tourism

It was named after the 24th Sultan of Johor , Almarhum Sultan Iskandar Al-Haj Ibni Almarhum Sultan Sir Ismail Al-Khalidi .

The mosque is managed by Waqaf An-Nur Corporation Berhad ( Waqaf An-Nur ), a special body appointed by the Johor Islamic Religious Council ( MAINJ ) to oversee its operations and development .

Located on a 3.6 acres site , the mosque stands out for its environmentally friendly attributes and cultural significance , attracting visitors from various regions .

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AND SUSTAINABILITY FEATURES

The mosque ’ s architectural design , inspired by Turkish architecture , is a unique feature that sets it apart . The front section , adorned with four minarets and a large dome , is a striking homage to traditional Turkish architectural styles .

Its prayer hall has the capacity to accommodate a maximum of 4,600 people . Meanwhile , the mosque ’ s posterior section is multifunctional , including a hall for community activities , lecture rooms , and a wedding venue .

Waqaf An-Nur Head of the Spirituality & Religion Department Syazwan Hafidz Ahmad highlighted the greenery surrounding the mosque premises : “ It ’ s a green area with no developments , preserving the natural landscape , which underlines its urban planning considerations .”

“ The green spaces around the mosque function as natural cooling systems , offering shade and evaporative cooling . This also improves air quality and lowers ambient temperatures in the vicinity .”

Situated on a hilltop , the Sultan Iskandar Mosque enjoys a constant breeze , which enhances its naturally chilly and comfortable environment . Moreover , the mosque also harnesses solar energy to reduce its environmental impact and lower electricity expenses .

The lake adjacent to the mosque also serves as a recreational area for the local community .

Inside the Islamic Information Centre ( IIC ).

Syazwan Hafidz Ahmad

People from the town and beyond use this area for leisure activities , family gatherings , and other events .

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

The Sultan Iskandar Mosque holds the record for hosting the largest congregational morning prayer in Malaysia on 20 January 2024 , with 12,000 Muslims in attendance .

“ No other mosque in Malaysia has previously documented such a large crowd for morning prayers ,” said Syazwan . This achievement is a testament to the mosque ’ s influence and the strong sense of community engagement it fosters .

Additionally , the spacious parking area , with nearly 300 slots and dedicated spaces for people with disabilities , enhances visitor accessibility . This accessibility is directly tied to the mosque ’ s sustainable practices , as the well-planned infrastructure ensures a smooth flow of visitors during peak times .

“ Its gotong-royong event involves not only Muslims but also non-Muslim associations ,”

Sultan Iskandar Mosque management committee . shared Syazwan , emphasising the mosque ’ s inclusivity and community cohesion .

MOSQUE TOURISM EXPERIENCE

The Sultan Iskandar Mosque is recognised as a tourism mosque , dedicated to sharing the beauty of Islam and promoting understanding .

“ To ensure the visitors enjoy a great experience while having a tour in the Sultan Iskandar Mosque , we have trained and appointed the professional Mosque Tour Guide among the volunteers to assist and to give guided tours to the visitors and tourists around the mosque ,” shared Syazwan .

Due to its exceptional mosque tourism experience , the Sultan Iskandar Mosque received the Malaysia Tourism Quality Assurance ( MyTQA ) from the Ministry of Tourism , Arts , and Culture Malaysia ( MOTAC ) on 6 November 2019 . This recognition marked it as the first mosque in Malaysia , alongside Masjid Jamek Kuala Lumpur , to achieve such recognition . Additionally , it became the second tourist destination in Johor acknowledged by MyTQA , following Johor Premium Outlet . On 13 July 2023 , the mosque was once again recognised with the Gold Award for Culture & Heritage Tourism by MOTAC .

ISLAMIC INFORMATION CENTRE

Within the Islamic Information Centre ( IIC ) on the mosque grounds , visitors from abroad ( Japan , Korea , China , Indonesia ) and locals , including schools , can explore Islamic culture and values . This cross-cultural engagement includes educational programmes that promote mutual understanding and appreciation .

Through its various activities and programmes , the mosque effectively presents Islamic principles , customs , and cultural practices to visitors . This educates and enriches the cultural experience of those who visit , whether Muslim or non-Muslim .

Looking ahead , the mosque plans several sustainability projects , such as developing a Quranic garden near its entrance . This garden will feature plants referenced in the Quran , further boosting its attraction for tourists and reinforcing the mosque ’ s commitment to sustainable practices .

Overall , the mosque is equipped with facilities and services that respond to the needs of Muslim visitors , such as prayer facilities , educational programmes about Islamic culture , and initiatives that promote Islamic values and traditions . At the same time , it is also designed and managed to attract and accommodate tourists of all religious beliefs by serving as a cultural exchange , education , and tourism hub .

The Sultan Iskandar Mosque goes beyond its religious function to promote intercultural understanding , education , and tourism , making it a valuable local and global asset . – RnR

The mosque tour guide with visitors .