In the very heart of Kuala Lumpur`s business district, bordering KLCC Park, stands one of the city`s most unusual and architecturally significant mosques—Masjid As-Syakirin, which translates to "Mosque of the Thankful." It serves as a symbol of modern, open, and progressive Malaysia.
Architecture: Modernity, Light, and Transparency
The mosque was built between 1996 and 1998, concurrent with the completion of the Petronas Towers and KLCC Park. Its architecture represents a radical departure from traditional Islamic forms with domes and ornate minarets. Instead, the design emphasizes geometry, glass, and natural light.
Key Architectural Elements
Glass Façade and "Stained-Glass" Dome: The most striking feature of the mosque is its main prayer hall, crowned by a vast pyramidal structure of glass and steel. This construction is often perceived as a modern interpretation of a dome. It consists of numerous triangular glass segments, resembling a crystal or intricate geometric ornamentation. During the day, it floods the interior with natural light, and at night, illuminated from within, it transforms into a glowing beacon.
Absence of Traditional Minarets: The mosque does not have tall minaret towers. The call to prayer (azan) is broadcast via a modern audio system.
Geometric Structure: The building is based on clear lines and angles. The main entrance is designed as a tall portal leading to a spacious atrium. The entire architecture is subordinate to the idea of order, clarity, and openness.
Interior: The interior space is impressive for its airiness and light. The absence of massive supports creates a feeling of a vast, open hall. The primary decorative elements are Arabic calligraphy on the walls and elegant modern light fixtures. The mihrab (niche indicating the direction of Mecca) is executed as a restrained yet elegant installation of marble and light.
What`s Interesting for Tourists
This is one of the most accessible and photogenic mosques for non-Muslims in Kuala Lumpur.
External View and Photography: The mosque`s architecture framed by the Petronas Towers is an iconic shot. It looks especially spectacular at sunset ("golden hour") and after dark when its glass structure begins to glow from within.
Visit and Guided Tour: The mosque is open to visitors outside prayer times. Often, volunteers or staff are ready to give guests a brief tour, explaining the architectural concept and the basics of Islam. Free cloaks (jubah) are usually offered for entry into the main hall.
Quiet Contemplation: The square in front of the mosque and adjacent parts of KLCC Park are a good place for a pause to appreciate the bold architectural concept and feel an atmosphere of calm amid the city bustle.
Exploring Modern Art: The mosque can be viewed as a large-scale work of contemporary Islamic art, where the main materials are light, glass, and space.
Masjid As-Syakirin is not a place of worship in the traditional sense but a functional architectural object, designed in 1998 as part of the KLCC business district`s infrastructure. Its primary value for tourists lies in the opportunity to observe the synthesis of modern design (glass structures, geometric forms) with practical religious needs, as well as its advantageous location for photography against the backdrop of the Petronas Towers.
