Project 2: Report of National Mosque, KL

1. N A T I O N A L
M O S Q U E
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
BSC (HONS) IN ARCHITECTURE | MARCH 2017
CULTURE & HISTORY ll ARC60203 | PROJECT 2: REPORT
BUILDING: NATIONAL MOSQUE
TUTOR: MR. KOH JING HAO

2. C O N T E N T
01
07
13
21
37
49
56
57
Introduction
a. Fast Facts of the Building
b. History of Building
c. The Architect
Site Context Analysis
by Iman Jezdmeen
Architectural Layout of Building
by Ng Pui Yan
Architecture Style Analysis
by Nurul Atiqah
Building Construction, Structure
and Material Analysis
by Nur Farahiyah
Architecture Elements /
Component Analysis
by Ng Lek Yuen
Conclusion
References

3. I N T R O D U C T I O N
• Fast Facts National Mosque
• History of National Mosque
• The Architects
01

4. The National
Mosque of
Malaysiaalso known as Masjid Negara in it’s
national language is a mosque located in
the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It
has a capacity to house 15,000 individ-
uals and is arranged within 13 acres of
beautiful gardens. The original structure
was designed by a three-person team
consisting of architect Howard Ashley,
and Malaysian architects, Hisham Al-
bakri and Baharuddin Kassim. (Masjid
Negara, 2017) The mosque was built in
1965 on the site of a church, the Venning
Road Brethren Gospel Hall, which had
stood there since 1922 but was demol-
ished by the Malaysian government.
The mosque is an intense and present
day approach in strengthened concrete,
typical of the desires of a then recently
free Malaysia.
Its key components are a 73-meter-high
minaret and a 16-pointed star solid pri-
mary rooftop. (“Masjid Negara: 50 Years
National Mosque Exhibition | IAMM”,
2015) The umbrella, synonymous with
the tropics, is included obviously – the
primary rooftop is reminiscent of an
open umbrella, the minaret’s top a
collapsed one. The collapsed plates of
the solid primary rooftop are an inno-
vative answer for accomplishing the
bigger traverses required in the principle
gathering lobby. Reflecting pools and
wellsprings spread all through the com-
pound.
02

6. Fast Facts
Building:
National Mosque of Malaysia
Location:
Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480
Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Architects:
Howard Ashley, Hisham Albakri and
Dato Baharuddin Abu Kassim (Public
Works Department)
Architecture Style: Modern Islamic
Construction finished: Year 1965
Description:
A mosque that contain a capacity for
15,000 people and is situates among 13
acres of beautiful gardens. Also, the main
feature is the 73-metre-high minaret and
a 16-pointed star concrete main roof.
(National Mosque of Malaysia, 2017)
Function:
Primary purpose is serve as a place
where Muslims can come together for
prayer. Also, it serve as a tourist attrac-
tion due to the symbolism of our newly
independent country, Malaysia.
04

7. History
This building is a symbol of national legacy. It was built between 1963- 1965 (Wikipedia, 2017).
The original structure was designed by 3 architects: UK architect Howard Ashley and Malaysian
architect Hisham Albakri and Baharuddin Kassim.
On 30th July 1957, the Federal Executive Council brought up an idea on building a national
mosque to represent Malaysia’s independence. (Wikipedia, 2017). A year later in March 5, 1958,
a proposal was made by Chief Ministers of all eleven states, to name the mosque after the coun-
try’s first Prime Minister: Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al – Haj (Wikipedia, 2017). However,
Tunku declined and suggested it to be names as Masjid Negara to symbolize the country’s unity
and multicultural harmony, as well as a way to thank Allah for achieving a peaceful independence
in the country (Wikipedia, 2017). And this is because it was achieved without any violence or
deaths involved.
During the time it was being constructed, Tunku Abdul Rahman requested a mausoleum
for Malaysian statesmen: The Makan Pahlawan. It is located within the ground of the National
Mosque (Wikipedia, 2017). And in 1973, Tun Dr. Ismail was the first Malaysian leader laid to rest
there (Wikipedia, 2017).
The disadvantage in the past was the limited construction materials available. They only
had concrete at the time and that was the only material they could work with (SunDaily, 2015).
So basically everything from the basic structure to the roof is made out of concrete. They had the
color pink decorated the tiles, roof and walls, but later on changed it to blue and green-hued tiles
in 1987 (SunDaily, 2015).
05

8. The Architects
The National Mosque’s original structure was designed by a three-person team from the
Public Works Department. Supervised under a british architect, Howard Ashley and
Malaysian architects; Hisham Albakri and Baharudin Kassim. The trio was selected
to design the national mosque, an idea mooted by then Prime Minister Tunku Abdul
Rahman, to commemorate the country’s independence. Although three architects were
incharge with the designs, the head architect of the structure was Baharuddin Kassim.
He had specifically studied and researched on mosques from India, Pakistan, Iran, Tur-
key, Saudi Arabia, The United Republic and Spain.
Datuk Baharuddin came from humble beginnings, born in Kuala Selangor and
attended the prestigious Malay Collge Kuala Kangasr (MCKK). Being in the boarding
school helped him to get a stronger education being all disciplined and regiminted. To
further his studies he had always had an eye in pursuing medicine but to his surprise
he was offered the opportunity to study architecture in England. Datuk Baharuddin
studied at the University of Manchester in 1958 with a theses on designing mosques.
(Kenny, M., 2015).
Dato’ Baharuddin Abu Kassim Dato’ Dr Ikmal Hisham Albakri
06

9. S I T E C O N T E X T
A N A L Y S I S
• Building accessibility
• Relationship of building to surroundings
• Response to climate
by Iman Jezdmeen
07

10. Site Location
The National Mosque is located at the West of central Kuala Lumpur. Surrounding it are iconic
buildings such as National Planetarium, Islamic Art Museum, Old Railway Station Kuala Lumpur,
and also the Daya Bumi Complex.
08

11. Building Accessibility
TRANSPORTATION
The National Mosque is located at a strategic location
in Kuala Lumpur. It is also located right opposite the
central railway station. The mosque is also connectef to
major roads such as Jalan Damansara and Jalan Kinaba-
lu. Not to mention, the mosque is accessible by public
transport and also a 5 minute walsk to the Old Railway
Station. Reaching the station you are able to access
towards the railway station at Pasar Seni from a link
bridge built from the Old Railway Station. Besides that,
the LRT sttation also acts as a bus hub for city buses.
Usually, on Fridays when prayers are going on people
opt to public transport as on this day specifically, the
roads are jammed due to heavytraffic and the lack of
parking spaces.
09
RELATIONSHIP OF BUILDINGS TO SURROUNDINGS
Mix of colonial and modern era buildings are surrounded by the mosque and each of them
shows how the city is progressed. Mostly the buildings surrounding the mosque has a influences
of Islamic motives and styles. Furthermore, the mosque symbolises the status of Islamicity.
Acess to site for pedestrian and public
Courtyard
Compound wall
Carpark
Legend:

12. OLD RAILWAY STATION
KUALA LUMPUR
Built in 1906 and completed 4 years later,
this station is used as a main terminusfor
intercity train. The railway station is a
mixture if western and Mughal similar to
Moorish revival. Hence, the mosque and
the railway station shares the same
architecture style. (“Architectural master-
pieces of KL : The Railway Station, 2011)
DAYABUMI COMPLEX
Completed in 1984 and designed by MAA &
BEP Architect , it was commissionedby the
Urban Development Authority (UDA) as
part of its strategy to creating jointventures
with the government and the private sector
as well as to restructure Bumiputra interest
in urban areas.
The tower layout and external facade bears
strong connection to Islamic architecture.
Thelayout of the tower resembles a
combination of overlapping polygons and
the Rub elHizb, a 8 point star commonly
seen in Islamic geometry. Islamic symbols
and geometric motifs are also represented
within the metal sunshades surrounding the
building and pointed arches. (Alamy. N.p.,
n.d.)
Surrounding Buildings
10

13. ISLAMIC ART MUSEUM
Completed in 1998 and designed by
Kumpulan Akitek Sdn Bhd, it is
locatedwithin the Perdana Lake Gardens
and opposite the National Mosque. (Islamic
Arts Museum Malaysia, 2015) It was built to
display artIfacts, artworks, crafts,
manuscripts and collections from the
Islamic world. The arabic caligraphy drawn
on the columns and structure is the same
with the national mosque, islamic
architecture.
NATIONAL PLANETARIUM
The National Planetarium is located inside
the Lake Gardens of Kuala Lumpur. First
opened to public in 1993, it has designed
and structured mimicing a mosque with a
blue dome. Somewhat similar to the
National Mosque itself but with round
dome. (Rappler. N.p., n.d.)
11

14. Response
To Climate
The mosque was designed to
suit its local tropical climate.
With the concrete roof
designed like an open
umbrella it creates a large
gathering hall. Not to
mention the triangular
openings between the folds of
the building’s roof is used to
capture wind. Therefore, the
mosque has a better
ventilation thus making
the building interact with
its climate. Not to forget,
the large open veranda also
contributes to the good
ventilation. Fellow prayers
are able to pray in a shaded
place and even in the rain it
is protected and shield. Thus,
this helps to keep the mosque
in a comfortable temperature
throughout their stay.
(Malaysia Architecture, n.d.)
Concrete Roof for Large Span
Open Walkway for Ventilation and Shade from Sunlight and Rain
12

15. A R C H I T E C T U R A L
L A Y O U T OF
B U I L D I N G
• Plan to section or elevation analysis
• Circulation to use-space
• Organization analysis
by Ng Pui Yan
13

16. In terms of architecture, an architectural plan serves design and planning for a building.
A proper architecture layout and plan consists of the following, architectural drawings,
specifications of design, accurate calculations and dimensions, time process planning of
the building, etc. Furthermore, an architectural plan provides further understandings of
the building itself in terms of drawings as well as communicating ideas and concepts, to
convince clients of the merits of a design, to enable a building contractor to construct
it, as a record of the completed work, and to make a record of a building that already
exists.
14

17. Site Plan
Floor Plan
Side Elevation
15

18. 16
Building Layout
Main entrance of the National Mosque.
The main entrance shown in the elevation diagram leads to the main prayer hall as well
as the women prayer hall through an open walkway. The user will also pass by the water
feature located pass the entrance as they walk into their prayer halls.
Outside view from Main Entrance

19. 17
Balance is achieved through the structural plan of this mosque in terms of golden ratio,
proportion and spatial sequences. As shown in the diagram, the form of this building is
basically quite simple and basic where it is almost symmetrical to each site of the plan as
well as the elevation. The structural plan is a sequence shaped, hypostyle mosque, meaning
it has a flat roof supported by columns.
Floor Plan
Side Elevation

20. 18
The diagram and the legend below shows the areas in the National Mosque.
1. Main Prayer Hall
2. Women Prayer Hall
3. Library, Imam’s room, administration office
4. Verandah
5. Conference Hall
6. Mausoleum
7. Rectangular water feature where the miner at stands
8. Open walkway
Legend:

21. 19
Circulation
The diagram above shows the circulation of the National Mosque. The bolder arrows are
mainly where people would often walk by. Meanwhile the lesser bold arrows are where peo-
ple would often not walk by.
The configuration of path from entrance to the Warrior’s tomb is flexible. However, the
location of the spaces establish that path, which is the Warriors’ tomb.
The path-space relationship is used to approach and enter functionally or symbolically
important spaces.
The linear pathway leads the user to the Warriors’ tomb. As the user walks through the
linear path, the user will also pass by a minaret which is located on top of the rectangular
water feature.

22. 20
Mausoleum – Warriors’ Tomb
The Makam Pahlawan also known as the Warriors’ Tomb, was built in 1965 within the
National Mosque as a mausoleum for head of the state in Malaysia. It was one of the earliest
post-independent modernist landmarks in Kuala lumpur.
It was built with 2 architectural elements which are the circular plinth that provides shelter
which also incorporates the overall design of the columns and walls.
The Mausoleum is a large, open, pavilion-like
structure designed to create a well-defined space
to shelter the tombs within. A part from that,
security for the tombs are provided as well as the
well-wishers who come to offer prayers.
The triangular openings between the folds are
large enough to allow breeze to flow through the
structure, at the same time allowing an
uninterrupted outside view. The feeling of
being ‘inside of an outside space’ is thus cleverly
achieved. The whiteness of the concrete roof and
the colour, texture and coolness of the marble
further enhances the spatial quality and light of
the interior space.

23. 21
A R C H I T E C T U R A L
S T Y L E A N A L Y S I S
• The specific style adopted
• The characteristics of the style
• Modern / Local influence
by Nurul Atiqah

24. 22
The National Mosque has a very unique
modern approach where
almost everything is built in reinforced
concrete. From the uses of reinforced
concrete, it gives off this bold
appearance. The mosque got their
inspiration from mosques in India,
Pakistan, Iran, Turkey, Saudi Arabia,
UAE, and Spain, which are mainly
influenced from Mughal Architecture
style. (Islamic Arts Museum
Malaysia, 2015) However, National
Mosque does not imitate the
traditional masonry construction from
the past where it involved with arches
and domes. Instead it has a
contemporary expression of traditional
Islamic art calligraphy and
ornamentation and the rest is. There
are two architecture styles that the
National Mosque follows: modern
interpretation of traditional Malay
architecture (Malay Kampong House)
and Islamic Architecture.
Modern of
Malay
Traditional
Architecture
The architect’s purpose was to present
Malaysia’s unity and growth during the
years of getting their independence.
(Islamic Tourism Centre of Malay-
sia, 2017) They show it by appreciating
the beauty of Malaysia Traditional
Architecture or Malay Kampong House.
They incorporated many characteristics
that make the mosque have an atmos-
phere of being in a kampong house.
Characteristics:
The two striking features in the mosque
take part in making it look sleek and
modern: 73-meter high minaret
(folded umbrella) and 18 point
concrete dome (open umbrella).
(Islamic Tourism Centre of
Malaysia, 2017) The dome was
designed to look like an umbrella that
is already opened up. Because it was
made out of concrete, the architect
designed it in straight lines, which then
result to this idea of payung kertas.
These features were mainly inspired by
traditional Malay architecture’s motifs
and themes.

26. 24
The multi-fold-umbrella-like roof associates with 2 different symbolisms, both of
which have to do with Malaysia. The architect Baharuddin was inspired by how the
Royals would always be escorted outside with an umbrella. (SunDaily, 2015) It rep-
resents how in Malaysian culture, they are good in giving shelter and protection to
others. It also symbolizes the aspirations of the independent nation and signifies the
unity that people in Malaysia have despite it being a multiethnicity country with dif-
ference race and religion. (SunDaily, 2015) There are 18 points on the dome, 13 of the
point represent the 13 state of Malaysia and the other 5 points represent the 5 pillars
of Islam. (SunDaily, 2015)
An interesting point about the roof that relates to the Malay Traditional style is how
it is an overhang and pitch roof. (Mr. Word Press, 2011) Due to Malaysia’s weather of
always raining throughout the day, they need to make sure that the rain would chan-
nel its way to the ground instead of going into the building. Constructing a pitch and
overhang roof is the best solution for this problem because the rain would flow down
and outwards from the building as well as giving plentiful of shades for the users.
Elevation View of National Mosque

28. 26
Malay Kampong House also influenced the ventilation around the mosque. In Ma-
lay traditional houses, ventilations or openings are designed so that fresh air, wind
and natural light can pass through and not make the users inside feel hot. (Mr. Word
Press, 2011) Since Malaysia’s climate is very humid and hot, the ventilation would
provide cooling breeze for the people inside the building. So the architects took that
important element and design the structure with no enclosed walls, but instead with
pattern structures that has a void in between so that cool breeze can pass through.
The ventilation structure still maintains it modernist style by using reinforced
concrete and geometrical shapes.
Close up view of the structure

29. The design of the column and ceiling create this sleek and stylish look to the whole
interior of the mosque. It is not like any other traditional mosque that you go to because
it is much more simple in designing the form. It has an emphasis on geometrical shapes,
linear elements and rectangular forms. The column is designed with clean lines and rec-
tangular form. And the ceiling is designed with geometrical forms going down to meet
the top of the column.
27
Overview of columns and ceilings

30. The design of the main prayer hall relates back to the concept of Malay traditional
house, whereas the roof space has to be properly ventilated (Mr. Word Press, 2011).
The National Mosque does not have ceiling panels to assure that air going in and out
is not block. This helps cool the space and avoid users feeling stuffed or claustropho-
bic. The ceiling consists of geometric form where Malay traditional houses are based
on. The linear elements are emphasized on the ceiling and thus create this geometric
form. The windows are triangular shape and are blue colored glass to reduce the sun
intensity from going in. This makes the interior much more cooler and make people
comfortable when they perform their prayers.
Ceiling of the main prayer hall Interior of the main prayer hall
28

31. Traditional Malay carving influenced the carvings on the walls, columns and some
part of the ceiling. The carvings were carved beautiful with different patterns and so
many details. This adds on to the cultural and local context, enhancing the traditional
concept but design in a modern way.
Carving on the column Zoom in of the carvings on the ceiling
29

32. Islamic Architecture
This mosque also has a great influence of Islamic architecture style. There are
many verses of Quran engraved on the structure, and this was inspired from the Blue
Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. Islamic architecture has some characteristics that unite all
Islamic buildings, as well as the 7 Unifying Principles of Islamic Architecture (Nicanor,
2009). These principles make the style unique, interesting and important. It’s a way to
show the relationship between Muslims, their beliefs and how it is shown in everyday
architecture. Islam is a religion where it represents culture and act as a force among
ethnically and culturally diverse people.
Characteristics:
All mosques are required to have a niche in the interior (Mckenzie, 2017). There is a
niche on the wall called the mihrab and it faces Makkah, the direction Muslims pray.
The minaret is another important characteristic of a mosque (Mckenzie, 2017). The
minaret is a tower where the muezzin calls the faithful to prayer, which is known as
Azan. Islamic architecture decorates their structure with Islamic calligraphy or verses
form the Quran (Nicanor, 2009). The National Mosque has verses of Quran on the
roof, as well as in the main prayer hall on the wall.
Top Picture:
Quran verses on the roof
Bottom Right Picture:
Quran verses on the window and
along the top of the walls
30

33. Islamic architecture involves with a lot of repetitive geometric shapes (Nicanor, 2009).
National Mosque has a lot of repetition on their structure such as the air wells, windows,
columns and the carvings. These elements are repeated throughout the mosque and it
gives off this harmony and unity atmosphere. There are also repeated uses of colorful tiling
(Mckenzie, E. (2017). Colorful tiles are one of the characteristics that make up an Islamic
architecture. There are tiles on the wall and columns being used repeatedly to create more
harmony.
An interesting characteristic from Islamic style is the private screens (A2 Modern, 2012).
The private screens keep the inside private from the outside, which symbolizes how Mus-
lim’s dignity and perseverance. It shows how modesty is important in Islam. This was shown
through the ventilation structure throughout the whole mosque.
Colorful tiles on the wall Repetition of columns
View of the concrete screens from
outside
View of the concrete screens from
inside
31

34. 1. TAWHID (UNITY AND UNIQUITY OF
ALLAH)
The focus of the building have to be on
strengthening the bond between Muslims
within conformity of Allah’s will (Wong, 2014).
The buildings have to show that Muslims have
a strong belief towards their one God. The
Qibla, the one direction that Muslims pray, can
represent this, which is towards the Kaabah in
Makkah. It unites all Muslims to pray in one
direction towards their God, Allah (Hilmi,
2014). In this case, the National Mosque is ori-
ented to the North West facing the Qibla.
2. IHTIRAM (RESPECT)
The building should show the respect and
obedience that Muslims have towards Allah,
as well as towards his other creations (living
or nonliving) and towards one (Wong, 2014).
Most mosques are designed based on geomet-
rical shapes so it has become a symbolism and
concept for respect (Hilmi, 2014). Further-
more, Muslims can recreate the patterns and
shapes so that it gives of a religious message.
Qibla Prayer Hall
7 Principles of Islamic Architecture
Floor Plan of National Mosque
Geometry patterns found at
staircase railings
Geometry patterns found at
concrete screens32

35. 3. IKHLAS (SINCERITY)
The architects should keep in mind that their
designs have to express sincerity purity, and
meet the rules and regulation in Islam (Wong,
2014). Few characteristics that they followed
were avoiding the absence of human or im-
aginary idols, enclosed gardens with flowing
waters, and having a hierarchy arrangement
in the spaces (Hilmi, 2014). Another impor-
tant element is that they design with geometry
proportion because it provides harmony and
balance (Hilmi, 2014)
4. PURSUIT OF ILM (KNOWLEDGE)
The building should celebrate the imporThe
building should celebrate the importance of
knowledge through calligraphy from the Quran
and uses light as a symbolism of knowledge
(Wong, 2014). The Islamic calligraphy is very
important because it has the power to express
and portrays the messages that are presented in
the Quran (Hilmi, 2014). It helps spread the vast
knowledge to other Muslims around the world.
Furthermore, the messages and calligraphy can be
revealed through illuminating effects such a the
sunlight or moonlight or just lighting inside the
mosque. National Mosque has small chandeliers
in the main prayer to provide lighting inside but
when its daylight, lots of sun goes in and brighten
up the
space more. Knowledge is actually referred as
light in Islam (Hilmi, 2014). So having a good
light inside the mosque is believed to support the
learning process.
Water fountain at the courtyard of
National Mosque
Calligraphy shown in the
niche at main prayer hall
33
Small chandeliers around
the main prayer hall

36. 5. IQTISAD (BALANCE)
The building’s functional and spiritual elements
should have some kind of harmony between
each other (Wong, 2014). The balance can be
shown in the shape, form and spatial layout of
the building (Hilmi, 2014). Symmetry is con-
sidered as one of the elements that demonstrate
balance. We can see this at the spatial layout of
the mosque, where the symmetry lines connect
to each spaces and still maintains that balance
and harmony.
6. HAYA’ (MODESTY)
The building should be modest and protect the
dignity of its owner and users (Wong, 2014).
This can be shown through the private screens
that are provided throughout the mosque
(Hilmi, 2014). It protects the users inside by
not showing or exposing themselves to the
people outside. Modesty is also shown in the
main prayer hall where the space is separate by
a partition for female users to give privacy and
respect.
Symmetry in Spatial Layout
Symmetry in Elevation
Patterned private screens
Main
Prayer
Hall
Female
users
space
34

37. 7. DIKR (REMEMBRANCE)
The building should be able to support and an encouragement to remember Allah (Wong,
2014). It is shown through Arabic calligraphy and repeated throughout the whole mosque
(Hilmi, 2014). It is also represented by repetitive use of ornaments, pillars and arches. Na-
tional Mosque shows this concept by having Arabic calligraphy on the glass window of the
main prayer hall, repeating the carving ornaments on the ceilings, walls and columns. And by
repeating uses of column structure located outside the main prayer hall.
Sunlight illuminating through the
calligraphy on the glass window
Repetition of ornaments
throughout the walls and ceilings
Repetition uses of columns
35

39. 37
B U I L D I N G
C O N S T R U C T I O N,
S T R U C T U R E &
M A T E R I A L A N A L Y S I S
• The specific material
• The construction method
• Similarities or Differences with other modern buildings in the west
by Nur Farahiyah

40. Building Construction
A council of architects from Jabatan Kerja Raya had gathered and exam-
ined as well as compared the design of famous mosques in all Islamic countries.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been requested to contact United Arab Emir-
ates to assist them by giving suggestion and design for the proposed mosque. The
design of the mosques from the United Arab Emirates was sent to Kuala Lumpur
to be examined. The architects also went to Brunei to examine the design of the
mosques in Brunei. The task to design the mosque was given to the young archi-
tect during that time known as Mr. Baharuddin bin Abu Kassim, who had specific
knowledge in mosque. He had visited India, Pakistan, Turkey, Spain, Arab coun-
tries including Iran and the United Arab Emirates and had meticulous examina-
tion on design of all well-known mosques in Malaysia. His proposal was approved
by Mosque Committee in June 1960. (“Masjid Negara”, 1965).
The first stage of the construction was the site preparation. The preparation in-
cluded demolishing the old buildings and clearing the site, earthworks, piling and
piping. The contractor for this project was a local contractor, Messrs K. C. Boon
and Cheah which took two years for them to complete. The Qiblat orientation and
determination ceremony was performed by Yang Teramat Mulia Perdana Menteri,
Tuanku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj on 29th September 1961. The next stage was
the construction of the mosque. By August 1962, the proposal had been received
and found to be costly and they decided to reduce the expenses by two million
Ringgit by changing the materials that would be used for the building. The laying
of foundation stone ceremony was held on 27th February 1963 by Yang di-Pertu-
an Agong. (“Masjid Negara”, 1965).
38

41. 39

43. Construction of National Mosque
Kuala Lumpur on 28th August 1964

44. Structure
Generally, the structural system of National Mosque is post and beam
concrete structure. The structural elements, columns and beams, does not only
function as the support system of the main roof, it also divides and differentiates
the internal spaces within the mosque. Other than that, the columns and beams
act as indicators of volume of the spaces in the mosque. The columns of 4 meters
high and a diameter of about 0.9 meters represent a relevant scale of the internal
spaces in the main prayer hall, verandah and administrative office. The pavilion
area has taller columns of about 14 meters high and 0.9 meters wide which act as
the support system of the concrete parasol roof as well as to allow the natural light
to pass through into the verandah area.
42
Another structural element is the minaret (Figure 1.2). The size of the
minaret is about 13 square meters. The minaret functions as the lookout tower of
the mosque and to call for prayer.
Columns at the pavilion area
The minaret

45. 43
Material
1. MAIN PRAYER HALL
The most important part of the mosque is the main prayer hall. The main materials
used for the main prayer hall is reinforced concrete. The material used for the exterior
walls of the main prayer hall is reinforced concrete covered with Italian marble (Figure
1.1) while the finishes for the interior walls are the combination of Italian marbles at
the top part of the wall and glazed ceramic tiles (Figure 1.2) with geometrical patterns
at the bottom part of the interior walls.
There are openings on the three sides of the wall of the main prayer hall and the mate-
rials used for these 9 sliding doors are transparent glass panel with aluminum frames
(Figure 1.3)
Figure 1.1 The exterior wall
with Italian marbles
Figure 1.2 The interior wall
with Italian marbles and
glazed ceramic tiles
Figure 1.3 The aluminium
sliding door of the main
prayer hall

46. 44
The main prayer hall is covered with “folded-plate” dome made up of concrete with
mosaic tiles (Figure 1.4) as the outer finishes. The diameter of the dome is about 200
feet and the height of the roof is 84 feet above ground level, supported by 16 columns,
each has diameter of 3 feet. The centerpiece of the dome is made up of aluminum
rosette (Figure 1.5), the original replica found beneath the dome of well-known Sultan
Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul.
A series of Quran verses located along the wall at the four sides of the main prayer hall,
located 2 feet above the ground, on blue Italian mosaic tiles (Figure 1.6).
Figure 1.4 The concrete roof
with mosaic tiles
Figure 1.5 5 The centerpiece
of the dome made up of
aluminium rosette
Figure 1.6 The series of verses
from Quran along the
internal wall

47. 45
Stained glass (Figure 1.7) was used for triangle windows at the top part of the main
prayer hall to give the sense of calm and tranquil by enhancing the natural light passing
through the main prayer hall.
The main prayer hall consists of 16 concrete columns of about 4 meters high with white
plastered of details of muqarnas at the top part of the columns and glazed ceramic tiles
with diamond patterns at the bottom part of the columns (Figure 1.8).
Figure 1.7 Stained glass to bring natural
light in
Figure 1.8 The columns with white plastered
details of muqarnas and glazed ceramic tiles

48. 46
2. PAVILION
The pavilion is located at the east side of the main prayer hall. The pavilion consists of
48 square-shaped concrete columns with unglazed white mosaic tiles and small
portions of anodized gold at both top and bottom parts of the columns to support the
parasol roof structure. The pavilion is screened with concrete geometrical patterns
walls (Figure 2.1)
Figure 2.1 The pavilion which consists of square-shaped concrete columns with unglazed white mosaic tiles
and small portions of anodized gold at both top and bottom parts of the columns surrounded by concrete
geometrical patterns wall screens

49. 47
Figure 3.1 The columns at
verandah area with unglazed
black mosaic tiles finished
and a small portion of
anodized gold mosaic tiles at
both top and bottom part of
the columns.
3. VERANDAH
The verandah is covered by concrete roof which are supported by 154 square-shaped
reinforced concrete columns and unglazed black mosaic tiles finished and small
portions of anodized gold mosaic tiles at both top and bottom part of the columns
(Figure 3.1). The material used for the floor finishes at the verandah area is terrazzo
(Figure 3.2). The space of the verandah can accommodate up to 5000 occupants.
Figure 3.2 Terrazzo flooring

50. 48
4. MINARET
The minaret (Figure 4.1) functions as the lookout tower and to call for prayer, with a
height of 235 feet from the ground level up to the top part of the minaret, an obvious
height difference in comparison to the height of the horizontal complex components of
the mosque. Two opposite sides of the minaret are finished with concrete geometrical
patterns grills and the other two opposite sides are finished with rectangular-shaped
terrazzo slates (Figure 4.2).
Figure 4.1 The Minaret Figure 4.2 The concrete geometrical patterns
grills and rectangular-shaped terrazzo slates
of the minaret.

51. 49
A R C H I T E C T U R A L
E L E M E N T /
C O M P O N E N T
A N A L Y S I S
• Identify, explain and analyse the significant component / element of the building
by Ng Lek Yuen

52. Blue Roof
The 16-point concrete roof that looks like a half opened
umbrella is a well-known symbolised as the protection from God,
Allah to his followers. (Mah,K , 2015) A normal mosque usually has
round dome but National Mosque is very different from the other
mosques because of the unique and outstanding feature of the not
dome-shaped roof.
Courtyard Garden
A 53,000m² courtyard garden is also a reason that attracted
240,000 visitors annually. (National Mosque of Malaysia, 2017) The
big open spaces with water feature decoration such as pools and
fountains create a relaxing and peaceful environment for the prayers
and the visitors.
Entrance: Portal
The entrance of this mosque is quite unique as the walls
are tiled in marbles and can be accessed from 3 different direction
through 9 glass doors, uniting the prayers into one space. A little
view of the mosque interior from the outside brings excitement to
allow people continue discover the building interior. Once visitor
enter to the building, natural light penetrate thru the stained glass
and fill up the space with positive and spiritual feels.
50

53. 51

54. Minaret
The 73 meter high minaret (National
Mosque of Malaysia, 2017) is the most
obvious elements among the mosque
architecture. It is located attached to
the Grand Prayer Hall and rising from
the reflecting pool. The purpose of
minarets in traditional architecture is
serve as a ventilation system for
building. (S M,N. , 2003) However,
with the inventions of better air
ventilation system, the minaret
changed to serve as a speaker where
the Azan can be read to notify all the
Muslims around and to be inform that
it is time to carry out their prayers.
Also, because of the height and unique
design, it can be easily recognise by
the passer by.
View of minaret from far away

55. 53
Building Details
Even thou the outer of the National Mosque is designed with modern feature, many
small minor details are still maintain in the traditional patterns, motives and forms to
represent the original islamic design.

56. 54

57. 55
Varendah
The verandah acts as a secondary prayer space when the occasion
requires. The space is created by uniformly-arranged concrete pillars
and mostly transparent which it is covered by geometric patterned
masyrabiah. For spatial design, it separates the busy public space
from the quiet and peaceful main prayer hall to avoid any
disturbance to the prayers.
Staircase
Staircases in National Mosque are built wider for the convenience
of the huge flow of human circulation especially for prayers during
every Friday. Also, in terms of safety, it is also suitable for people to
escape or allowing medical bed rack to carry patient down in case of
emergency.
Screening
In Islam, light symbolizes God. The Qur’an states, “God is the light
of the heavens and the earth.” Light in Islamic architecture is used to
symbolically represent God’s presence in a space. (Light in Islamic
Architecture, 2017) Hence, the design of the facade in geometric
patterned masyrabiah screening allows huge amount of light pen-
etrating into the building and also create shadows or shades. The
repetition of pattern create a calm and ambience atmosphere in this
religious space. Besides that, it is also design out of necessity in the
Malaysia hot climate weather to filter harsh sunlight.

58. The National Mosque is
appreciated as the symbol of
nationalism and multi-racial
society. The concept of the
National Mosque shows
modern architecture philosophy
that highlight the spirit of time
and place. The National Mosque is
highly remarkable among the
other mosques without
resembling significance similarity
to Middle Eastern architecture
style that is not similar to
Malaysian culture and context of
Malaysia. It exhibits the
architectural language that
represents the sense of
nationalism through modern
architectural style. As a
conclusion, the National Mosque
is a building of modern
architecture that represent the
Islamic architecture at the same
time. The design of the mosque
is an example of the everlasting
modern architecture style as every
single element of the mosque is
unique.
C O N C L U S I O N
56

59. 57
R E F E R E N C E S

60. 58
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62. N A T I O N A L
M O S Q U E
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
NG LEK YUEN 0324010
NG PUI YAN 0324785
IMAN JEDZMEEN 0325440
NURUH ATIQAH 0325630
NUR FARAHIYAH 0324416