"Kampung Laut Mosque is believed to be the oldest mosque in Malaysia. Its unique architecture design without the use of nails resembles two mosques found in Java - Demak Mosque and Peringgit Mosque."
Kampung Laut Mosque is believed to be the oldest mosque in Malaysia. A unique aspect of the construction of the mosque which still impresses modern architects is the fact that the entire structure was built without the use of even a single nail. This unique structure resembles two mosques found in Java - the Demak Mosque and the Peringgit Mosque.
It is believed that the mosque was built in the 18th century by a religious group who were sailing to Jawa. Until 1966, this mosque was used as a centre to perform religious activities by the people who lived in the vicinity of Kampung Laut. Unfortunately, the mosque was badly hit by flood at the end of 1966 and early 1967. As a result, the State Government had to close down the mosque and build a new mosque in a safer location. In November 1967, the State Government in association with the Malaysia History Society and the National Museum dismantled and rebuilt the mosque on its present location at Nilam Puri, the Centre of Islamic Study in Kelantan.
Every effort was done to faithfully preserve its original architecture with the maximum use of original materials. However, only the main part of the mosque was able to be rebuilt. To preserve its historical value, an organising committee was formed to maintain the old mosque.
Kampung Laut Mosque is located in Kampung Nilam Puri (Nilam Puri Village), about 10km south of Kota Bharu. For more information, please contact the Kota Bharu Tourist Information Centre at 609-7485534.
Last viewed - July 29, 2010
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