May-June . 2024

The compound of MTTJ mosque .

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 :

1 . 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 .

2 . 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

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The MTTJ mosque distinguishes itself as a green Islamic tourism destination through its commitment to preserving the environment

Solar panels on the rooftop of MTTJ mosque .

their prayers , the mosque plans to include recreational events , blood donations , and carnivals in its future agenda .

3 . 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 energyefficient 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 openair 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

Dr Haji Abdullah Ismail .

MTTJ mosque received the Diamond Recognition at the Low Carbon Cities Award 2023 for its exceptional energy and water conservation efforts .

Hydroponic garden at MTTJ mosque .

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