Masjid Tengkera entrance . |
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BY DANIAL FAUZI
THE unique architectural designs of certain buildings and landmarks may contribute to tourists visiting certain countries in the pursuit of enriching tourist experiences . For these tourists , admiring these designs gives them insight into how a country ’ s culture influences the design and construction of these buildings , giving them a unique form of architecture . In light of the upcoming Visit Melaka 2024 campaign , the architectural wonders , like Masjid Tengkera , gain even more prominence as they continue to captivate tourists seeking enriching cultural experiences .
Located in the Tengkera ( Tranquerah ) district , approximately 200 metres from the Straits of Melaka ’ s coastline , Masjid Tengkera is a testament to the region ’ s architectural heritage . Initially built in 1728 , the mosque has witnessed significant historical moments and underwent renovation in 1890 and 1910 .
Within its compound is located the tomb of Sultan Hussein Muazzam Shah of Johor , a key figure in the treaty to deliver Singapore to Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819 .
Masjid Tengkera Chairman and caretaker Hasbullah Salleh attested that not only the unique construction of mosques in Malaysia attracts tourists but also the historical significance of these old mosques .
“ When I was growing up in the area around Masjid Tengkera , tourists would often come in buses to visit and admire the mosque , and they would often ask about the history of the mosque ,” he said .
“ The name ‘ Tengkera ’ originated from the Portuguese word tranquerah , which means ‘ defensive fortress ’,” Hasbullah added .
“ However , because people back then could not pronounce tranquerah , ‘ Tengkera ’ slowly became the mosque ’ s name .”
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ATTRACTING TOURISTS WORLDWIDE
The uniqueness of the mosque ’ s design establishes that Islam had set foot in
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Melaka around 600 years ago and is one of the few mosques in Malaysia with a pagoda instead of a minaret . Since then , Masjid Tengkera has undergone several renovations and restorations .
“ The historical aspect is why many tourists , especially non-Muslims , visit the mosque to learn of its history while also appreciating the unique design of the mosque ,” Hasbullah emphasised .
He shared that many tourists , whether local or international , Muslim or non- Muslim , who visit Masjid Tengkera come to admire the mosque ’ s beauty . Masjid Tengkera stands out from the typical mosque architecture in Malaysia , which often features onion-shaped domes .
Its architectural design incorporates a fusion of foreign and local cultures , evident in the mosque ’ s roof resembling the traditional Malay limas house roof , as well as the palace of Sultan Mansor , which takes the form of a pagoda and pyramid .
“ To ensure that tourists can visit Masjid Tengkera and appreciate its historical uniqueness , we have implemented security measures such as CCTV surveillance to prevent loss of belongings . We also have dedicated personnel who oversee the mosque and briefly explain its history .
“ We are currently planning a collaboration with a local university to produce video recordings and pamphlets that will provide detailed information about the
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Hasbullah Salleh
history of Masjid Tengkera . These resources will be given as gifts to tourists and visitors , in addition to infor-
An old photo of Masjid Tengkera . The mosque was built in 1728 . The word Tengkera is originated from Portuguese word ' tranquerah ', which means ‘ defensive fortress ’.
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mative sessions provided by our mosque staff .”
Masjid Tengkera was once the state mosque of Melaka , attracting hundreds of worshippers to its doors . Even today , after the state mosque title was given to Masjid Al Azim in 1990 , Masjid Tengkera remains well-frequented by those who appreciate its culture and heritage appeal , and is now part of any heritage trail of Melaka .
EMPHASISING THE CLEANLINESS OF THE MOSQUES
Other than a place for worship and daily congregations , Hasbullah believes that a mosque could expand its functions far beyond only as a place of worship for Muslims .
“ The mosque institution is synonymous with the Islamic community ,” Hasbullah expressed .
“ A mosque contains all the aspects of the lives of Muslims . We can see that a mosque serves not only as a place of worship for Muslims but also a place where people can live as a community .”
When discussing mosque tourism , he emphasised that tourists were welcome to visit any mosque of their choice . Malaysia offers numerous mosques and surau for their convenience , providing spaces for both prayer and exploration . Nonetheless , maintaining cleanliness should remain a top priority .
“ While there are plenty of modern mosques with new features , historical mosques are a rarity . Therefore , in both historic and contemporary mosques , I recommend prioritising cleanliness .
“ In Islam , cleanliness holds immense importance , as it ’ s often said that ‘ cleanliness is part of the Islamic faith ’. So , in Islam , there ’ s a strong emphasis on cleanliness in all aspects , whether for personal hygiene or mosque cleanliness .”
Through well-thought-out tourism promotions and marketing by the relevant governmental authorities , Hasbullah believes that the various mosques that dot the nation have the potential to contribute to the tourism industry whilst showcasing the beauty of Islam to tourists . — R & R
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