The National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur draws from both Islamic and modern architectural styles. It has some typical Islamic features like courtyards and geometric decorations, but departs from traditional Islamic mosque designs which are usually symmetrical. The architect designed an asymmetrical "F-shaped" plan to represent Malaysia's multi-racial identity. Key features include a 16-pointed star roof inspired by traditional Malay architecture and concrete parasol columns in the courtyard to provide shade. While incorporating local influences, the overall modern design was a product of its time in the 1960s and aimed to be distinctly Malaysian rather than reflecting other countries' architectures.

1. National Mosque
Culture & History 2
Neo On E
Ng Jia Wei
Ng Jia Ying Angeline
Natasha Labitoria
Natalie Chen KheMin
Natacia Marcella Ginola
0326727
0326857
0326469
0327012
0327110
0331347
Tutorial group : Ms Siti Balkish Roslan

2. Content
1.0 Introduction 3-6
2.0 Site Analysis 7-13
3.0 Architecture Layout & Plan 14-18
4.0 Architecture Style 19-32
5.0 Building Construction 33-39
6.0 Architecture Element 40-48
7.0 Conclusion 49
8.0 Reference List 50
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3. 1.0 INTRODUCTION
3

4. INTRODUCTION
National Mosque also known as Masjid Negara was built in 1965 upon instigation by
Tunku Abdul Rahman. It was located at the heart of Kuala Lumpur city, and situated
among 13 acres of beautiful gardens surrounded by pools and fountains. National
Mosque is one of the largest mosque in Southeast asia, it has a capacity for 15,000
people. (National Mosque, Wikipedia)
This mosque was designed by 3 architects which consist of 2 local architects and a
British architect. The most distinguishing features of this monument is the 16- pointed
star roof which looks like an umbrella. The roof are surrounded with bright blue small
dome nicely organize in grid all around the roof. It act as an important monument in
Malaysia because of it adaptation of modern architecture philosophy to local context
and climate. ( Masjid Negara MASSA ,2007).
4

5. HISTORY
National Mosque was initially designed to memorialize Malaysia’s independence.
There were supposed to be design competition organized by Raymond Honey to obtain
suitable design for National Mosque, however due to it might increase the overall cost of
building and not reflect the local context, it was then hand to PWD headquarters led by
team of 3 architects. The mosque were supposed to name after our first prime minister,
Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj but he declined the offer and should instead be
designated Masjid Negara.Tunku Abdul Rahman chose the site adjacent to the Railway
station and the Railway Administration Office as the site to build National Mosque, the
location was strategic due to transport infrastructure bring more muslim visitor and ease
movement of people all across the country. The site selected unfortunately was difficult
to build due to several building have to relocate like Venning Road Chapel, Polish mess,
government houses and others.
The interesting fact of National Mosque is that non-muslim all around Malaysia have
donated fund and help up with construction of the mosque, it represent the strong
friendship and goodwill among Malaysian which made the mosque a more welcoming
and friend place.
5

6. ARCHITECTS
The project were led by 3 architects, which is Hisham Albakri and Baharuddin Abu
Kassim (local architects) as well as H. Ivor Ashley from british. However, Ashley left
PWD and Hisham went to overseas for further studies, left only Baharuddin from
original team to continue on the project. Tunku Abdul Rahman told the design
committee to be sure the design was Malaysian, and doesn’t reflect other countries
architecture, and most importantly it need to be national.
Datuk Baharuddins’ concept for National Mosque was a continuation of his final year
thesis design project at the University of Manchester. He applied flat roofed modernist
with articulated folded plate pyramid roof. In order to blend in with local climate and
context, he adapt Malay house set into the Mosque which make the spaces inside
more interesting.
Reference: the man behind Masjid Negara's iconic 'umbrella'. (2015). Retrieved from Malaymail online
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7. 2.0 SITE CONTEXT ANALYSIS
BY: NG JIA WEI
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8. 2.0 SITE CONTEXT ANALYSIS
2.1 Building accessibility
National Mosque is strategically located at Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala
Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur. It is located nearby Pasar Seni Station
(LRT and MRT) and Kuala Lumpur Station (KTM). People can easily access to this
building with different ways such as KTM, LRT, MRT and bus, which are the public
transportation and also taxi, driving your own car or even walking.
Old Kuala Lumpur
Railway Station,
At Old Kuala Lumpur
Railway Station, you
will need to walk
towards to the
National Mosque for
about four minutes
Pasar Seni Station
At Pasar Seni Station, you will
see a bridge that links the station
with Kuala Lumpur station after
passing by the ticket counter.
Walk through the bridge for
about 5 minutes until you see
Kuala Lumpur KTM station.
Then, go straight until you see a
tunnel that cross the Jalan
Kinabalu. The mosque is
situated at the end of the tunnel.
2.1.1 Public Transportation
Old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station (KTM)
Pasar Seni Station (LRT,MRT)
Dayabumi Complex (Bus)
Dayabumi Complex
You can take the
RapidKL bus (B101
and B112) and get
off at the Dayabumi
Complex. From the
complex, you can
walk to the National
Mosque.
Diagram 2.1
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9. 2.1.2 Private Transportation (car)
If you happened to drive your own car to National Mosque. There are two parking
areas for you to park your car.
Figure 2.1
Car Park A
Figure 2.2
Car Park B
2.1.3 Building Accessibility by Walking
Surrounding of National Mosque is mostly open spaces and easily for people to
enter it. This is because the building itself needs to occupy 15,000 of people during
Friday which is the time for Muslim to pray. People can enter in many direction and
entrances so that there won’t be traffic congestion during Friday prayer’s time.
View from A
View from B
View from C
Car Park A
Car Park B
A
B
C
Diagram 2.2
Diagram 2.3 Figure 2.5
Figure 2.4
Figure 2.3
9

10. 2.2 Relationship between building and surrounding
National Mosque is situated in a section of the government administration enclave
in Kuala Lumpur. This building is surrounded by a lot of Islamic building, such as
Federal Territory Islamic Religious Department and Islamic Art Museum,
which are quite similar to National Mosque as in it is run by Islam. The differences
between National Mosque and its site surrounding is actually the lush greenery
which expands to a 13-acre land, which includes the KL Bird Park
The Islamic Art Museum
Federal Territory Islamic Religious Department
Malaysia Islamic Centre
KL Bird Park
KL Bird Park
It is the home to more
than 3,000 birds of
approximately 200
species of local and
foreign birds.
The Islamic Art Museum
It is one of the most attractions
in Kuala Lumpur. There’s
Arabic calligraphy draw on the
columns and other places on
the structure. Its architecture
style is same with National
Mosque which is Islamic
Architecture, which makes the
site looks unite.
Federal Territory Islamic
Religious Department
It is an government office
for islamic. This building
and National Mosque have
in common is they are
both run under same
religion, which is Islam.
Diagram 2.4
Figure 2.6 Figure 2.7 Figure 2.8
10

11. Diagram shows the shadow lies on
the public area that provides shades
to the visitor during morning
2.3 Respond to climate
This building gets to respond to different kind of climates, including sunny and rainy day.
2.3.1 Sun
For sunny day, photos below shows the sun path from east to west of the building. The
building has many open areas, but its wall pattern allows sunlight to enter yet filter some
of the sunlight, so that the building will not be too exposed to sun. Please refer to and
also 6.0 Architecture Element (Fenestration) for explanation of the wall in admission of
sunlight and wind.
Although the weather in Malaysia is hot, this building has cooling features due to the trees
surrounding it and also the water feature which cools the area down.
Diagram shows the shadow lies on
the public area that provides shades
to the visitor during evening
Water feature that surrounds the building
Figure 2.9
Diagram 2.5 Diagram 2.6
11

12. Design of pillar and its roof
Furthermore, the pillars allow rainwater to flow from roof to the ground so that the
amount of rainwater will get controlled by not overwhelming the site.
The roofs are designed as sinking
toward centre which help to collect
rainwaters to the pipe in column
The rainwater is run down the pipe
in the pillars and are collected into
ablution room tank to reuse
2.3.3 Rain
The roof and pillars of the building are designed to adapt rainy seasons.
Design of roof
The roof is designed in an umbrella form which also
function as one. It provides shelter for people from the
rain. The rainwater will then flow into the pool
surrounding the roof.
Water flows
Diagram 2.7
Diagram 2.8
Diagram 2.9
Figure 2.10
Figure 2.11
12

13. 2.3.2 Wind
The diagram shows the pattern of wall that used for the building. It helps to ventilate the
whole building by allowing wind to flow through the walls. This is because the building
needs to be occupied by around 15,000 people during prayer time, so the spaces should
be well ventilated and cooling for people to stay in. Please refer to 4.3 Malay
Architecture for further explanation of the ventilation.
Diagram 2.10
Winds are able to flow
through the holes of the
wall pattern
Figure 2.12
13

14. 3.0
ARCHITECTURE LAYOUT & PLAN
BY: NG JIA YING ANGELINE
14

15. 15
In the original floor plan, there are only 3 main entrances, 2 facing Southwest
and 1 facing Northeast. Later on, they added 2 more entrances, 1 facing southeast
and 1 more facing Northeast which forms a total of 5 entrances for visitors to enter the
mosque. The entrances were added in so that people from different directions can
enter the mosque easily and the entrance will not be too crowded during prayer times.
The entrance for travellers and non-muslims is located at the Southeast entrance.
That entrance is the nearest to the information centre, thus it is convenient for them to
ask for help or any information about the mosque.
The prayer hall is the most important part of the mosque. Normally in other mosques,
males and females enter the prayer hall through separate doors. But in the National
Mosque, everyday except Friday, males and females can enter the prayer hall using
the same door. On Friday, as up to 15,000 people will visit the mosque, the females
will go to the women’s prayer hall which is located on the mezzanine floor above the
main prayer hall to pray. This is to prevent males and
3.0 ARCHITECTURE LAYOUT & PLAN
3.1 Plan to Elevation Analysis
Plan

16. First floor planGround floor plan
The diagrams above shows the current floor plan for the National Mosque.
Legend:
1. Prayer Hall
2. Courtyard
3. Mausoleum
4. Verandah
5. Meeting Hall
A. Southwest Entrance
B. New Southwest Entrance
C. Royal Entrance
D. Original Northeast Entrance
E. New Northeast entrance
Water feature
Parking
Information center
Ablution Room
VIP Room
1
3
2
4
4
5
A
B
C
D E
E
AC
D
3
Section X-X'
Elevation
females sticking too close to each other so that they can feel more comfortable and
focus on their prayers. If the main prayer hall is full, the Muslims can also pray at the
courtyard outside the prayer hall during the prayer time on Friday.
The diagrams above shows the current section drawing for the National Mosque.
The diagrams above shows the current elevation drawing for the National Mosque.
16

17. 3.2 Circulation to use-space
As shown in Diagram 3.2, the National Mosque has 5
main entrances, 1 on the west side for non-Muslims and 4
other entrances for the Muslims. The entrances leads the
visitors straight to the first floor where the prayer halls are
located at.
The main prayer hall has 3 entrances. The women’s
prayer hall is located on the mezzanine floor above the main
prayer hall. This space is accessible by two staircases
outside the main prayer hall that links to the women’s prayer
hall. The staircase also links to the roof area allowing visitors
to walk around the roof. This is a radial circulation. The
prayer halls are located on the first floor, to allow more air to
ventilate the prayer halls as many people will gather there
during prayer times. Please refer to 4.3 Malay architecture
for explanation of ventilation.
All the classrooms service area and ablution rooms
are located at the ground floor. It can be accessed from the
garden and also through two staircases inside the mosque
linking to the veranda.
3.3 Organization Analysis
Asymmetrical balance is shown in Diagram 3.2.1
where the building has two walkways facing the south
and one mausoleum on the west. The design of the plan
of this mosque was initially a “F-shaped” plan as the
architect does not want to follow the traditional Islamic
construction which are symmetry with domes and arches.
This mosque is not built for representing only the
Malays, but also for other races, representing Malaysia as
a multiracial country.
(More will be explained in chapter 4.2 modernism)
3.2.1 Asymmetry and Balance
Diagram 3.2
Diagram 3.2.1
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18. The main form of the mosque is a combination of
clustered rectangles, which was the trend during the
modernism era. The form is designed initially from a flat
concrete block, with ceiling articulated as a pyramid. The
architect interpreted the form by putting elements of
traditional Malay house set with natural landscape
platform.
The verandas and serambi space are adapted into
it to mediate between the interior and exterior. 48
concrete parasol columns and a pool are added into the
courtyard.
Every functional space is clustered together like a
space within a space creating an area with a larger
volume.
(More will be explained in chapter 4.4 design concept)
3.2.2 Geometry
The ground floor of the mosque is for private and
semi-private use. The private areas on the ground floor
are the VIP rooms while the ablution room and the
classrooms are the semi-public area. The entrances of the
mosque leads the the visitors to the first floor, visitors
need to go down the stairs which are located at the
courtyard to get to the ground floor. Therefore, only those
who wants to go to the VIP rooms, ablution room and
classrooms will go to the ground floor.
On the outer part of the ground floor, private parking
areas dedicated for the visitors can be found near the
Royal, Northeast and Southwest entrance. It is very
convenient for the visitors as the distance between the
parking and entrance is near.
On the first floor, only the main prayer hall and the
women’s prayer hall are private areas whereby only
Muslims can enter. Other places on the first floor like the
courtyard, verandah and mausoleum are public areas
where the non-muslims visitors can visit.
3.2.3 Spatial Hierarchy
Serambi & Courtyard
Veranda
Main Prayer Hall
Diagram 3.2.2
Diagram 3.2.3
18

19. 4.0 ARCHITECTURE STYLE
BY: NEO ON E & NATALIE CHEN
19

20. 4.0 Architecture style
4.1 ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE
Masjid or mosque are known as
important place of worship for
muslim. A mosque have many typical
feature like dome, mimbar, prayer
hall and many more. All mosque are
strict and detailed requirements in
Sunni jurisprudence, instead if didn’t
meet requirement it will not called a
mosque. The orientation of the
mosque must facing towards mecca
too.
In Islamic architecture, dome is an
important element that appear as a
symbol for most of the mosque. A
beautiful dome will signify power &
act as a focal point.
Islamic architecture have an
interesting characteristic where the
space inside must have a lot of
lighting come in. This is not just for
the aesthetic in space but is due to
their believe where light represent
god. Therefore, we can see that
everywhere in National Mosque is
full of beautiful lighting.
National Mosque used a lot of
Geometric art decoration in the
fenestration, it exemplify islamic
interest in repetition, balance and
symmetry.
Figure 4.1 showing the Terrazos slab
decoration at courtyard area
Diagram 4.1(a) showing a typical mosque building
20

21. Diagram 4.1(b) above show Taj Mahal (left) and National Mosque
(right) with the similar feature happening in the building
Most of the Islamic architecture are very strict on using symmetry floor plan, they
have main prayer hall in the middle, mihrab towards kaabah, minaret and many more
features. They emphasize on using arches and onion dome or even have a lot of
fancy decoration on the surface of wall, while National Mosque as we can see is
subtle in terms of decoration and have many feature are different in terms of form
which will be discuss in next topic.
4.1 ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE
Comparison of Taj Mahal and National Mosque
21

22. DOME
ENTRANCE
MINARET
PRAYER HALL
ORNAMENTS
National Mosque Putra Mosque
4.1 ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE
Comparison of elements with a typical mosque
22

23. 7 Principles of Islamic Architecture
1. “Tawhid : Unity & Uniquity of Allah”
The main spatial area where Muslims congregate to
perform their prayers ,facing the “Qi-blah” which is the
direction of “ka-bah” in Mecca. This is a common
direction during prayers as it signifies Islam is the
religion of unity : “ One God, one Final Prophet
Muhammed” .
2. “Dikr : Remembrance”
National Mosque is covered with repeated
geometric form ornaments everywhere.Geometric
ornaments such as nature or Quranic inscriptions.
It also acts as a remembrance of Allah
3. “Iqtisad : Balance”
It implements the golden ratio when designing the
building and achieved through the structural plan of
the mosque in terms of proportions and spatial
hierarchies.
In terms of the National Mosque form , it is modest
and on the simple side. The structural plan is in a
sequences shape , hypostyle mosque where the flat
roof is supported by columns throughout the entire
building.
4. “Ikhlas : Sincerity ”
Outward physical action and inward action of the
heart is an expression of submission towards God
are achieved through a form of prayer , meditation
or by one’s social ethnicity .
It can be translated through the design and motifs to
build within conformity to God’s will.There’s always
a focal point , lines of patterns that run across the
floor faces the direction of Ka’Ba.
23

24. 5. “Ilm : Knowledge ”
Islamic calligraphy are often used for decorations are
also a way to express ilm.It is usually found written on
buildings or elaborately carved into the wall .These
calligraphy actually celebrates the aesthetic of islamic
scripts across the islamic world through a visible form
by revealing ilm’s and words of wisdom in the Quran.
In Islamic view , knowledge and wisdom are
presented as light of truth.Like many religious
architecture , Islamic architecture has manipulated
the light source as an expression through illuminating
effects of daylight and moonlight.
Modesty was presented in this mosque through the usage
of minimum geometrical screenings serving as a private
screening from the outside world giving a sense of humility.
It also serves ventilation purposes and aesthetic feature of
islamic architecture.The layout of the building follows the
principle of Haya as the prayer hall are partially covered.
6. “Haya : Modesty ”
7. “Ihtiram : Respect ”
The presence of showing respect, propriety and good
manners towards Allah, towards all His creations and
most importantly, towards oneself, Illustrated by
symbolism , harmony and purity of geometric shapes.
Islamic artwork can recreate natural patterns and at
the same time , relaying religious message.For
example , shaped like a complex star pattern , the
“Koran” represents the middle of the universe.
24

25. “Form follows function” started during the 19th century.Although many modern
buildings features detailed ornamentations, it was the goal of the modernists to shift
the focal point of architecture to a whole new level of truthfulness of form , material
and expression.
The whole architectural expression of the National Mosque does not reveal any
foreign influences as it is suited accordingly to our socio-cultural context. Masjid
Negara is built in the modern era of reinforced concrete constructions (modernism
style ) , wide span of beams and the huge folded plate roof covering the prayer
hall.The form does not try to imitate the traditional masonry construction of the past
such as arches ,domes and small fenestrations.
4.2 Post Independence Architecture
If we compare Falling Water by Wright
with Nation Mosque, both have a very
interesting mass of form, and from the
form it creates more functional space
within the building. The bold rectangular
geometry of the horizontal parapets and
its vertical stone creates massing over
the waterfall. Datuk Baharuddin create
the whole National Mosque in more
asymmetrical way rather than just normal
symmetry floor plan to provide a more
freedom way for user to explore around
the building.
Diagram 4.2(b) above show both axono of building and
both are asymmetrical in form
Figure 4.2(a) showing the application of ornament in National Mosque Diagram 4.2(a) show massing of
floor plan in National Mosque
25

26. The piloti system is applied to the mosque,
the free plan allows to create buildings
without being limited by load-bearing
walls.The building comprising of two levels ,
rested on piloted columns and with the
surrounding of the main prayer hall
resembles a wide-open verandahs.
4.2 Post Independence Architecture
In National Mosque, free plan is used, as their main
focus is open space concept. This is due to with
the help of free plan they able to have more open
space to maximise the ventilation in space and do
not need a lot of wall to support the building.
Free plan refers to having a floor plan with non-
load bearing walls and floors by creating a
structural system that holds the weight of the entire
building by ways of using interior skeleton of load
bearing columns.
Diagram 4.2(c) showing free plan section of National Mosque
Diagram 4.2(d) showing piloti system
Figure 4.2(b) showing space supported using piloti system
26

27. National Mosque is famous with it’s parasol like roof. In modernism era, the
exploration of new construction method and test of material is often the trend. In
National Mosque the type of roof they used is folded plate roof which is not a
common feature during that time.
4.2 Post Independence Architecture
Folded plate structure
Folded plates are basically assemblies of
flat plate rigidly connected together along
their edges. The structure system is
capable to carry load without additional
supporting beams along mutual edges.
In National Mosque used 2 different types
of folded plate roof which is linear and
radial. The roofs are built of reinforced
concrete
(explanation of form will be on 6.0
Architecture Element)
The roof is a very light structure and
forces can be distribute and transfer
evenly to the bearing. During that
time, there are rarely buildings that
have folded plate structure as design
element. Therefor, Datuk Baharuddin
think that it will be a opportunity for
him to make used of this roof as a
dome and make it a ‘Malaysian’
mosque.
Radial Folded plate
- Mausoleum roof
Linear Folded plate
- Multipurpose Hall roof
Diagram 4.2(e) showing the different
folded plate roof in National Mosque
Diagram 4.2(f) showing the force distribution on
Multipurpose hall folded plate roof.
27

28. 4.2 Post Independence Architecture
Influence of Western Architecture
Masjid Negara contains western influenced structure such as landscape gardens,
fountains , pools and well-designed courtyard due to certain sultans and the court
aristocracy to emulate the imperial British culture.As a result , the mosque was built
accordance to the Georgian architecture such as grand structures , symmetrical in form
and richly decorated with classical motifs.
This iconic Mosque uses abstractive metaphor
thus creating the frames of the whole structural
mimics a serambi-verandah structure. It
expresses horizontality and presents well as the
vocabulary of humility in Islam.
The mosque is also adapted modernist
architecture, it is inspired by traditional islamic
themes and motifs.This iconic mosque of
Malaysia embodies a contemporary expression
of traditional islamic art , ornamentation and
calligraphy.It rejects history revivalism in all form
that celebrates abstraction in forms and the
structural expression in architecture. Figure 4.2(c) showing geometric decoration applied
on the fenestration.
Figure 4.2(e) showing the landscape in National
Mosque
Figure 4.2(d) showing the Arabesque motif in prayer
hall
28

29. When the architect designing National mosque, our prime minister Tunku Abdul
Rahman mentioned the design of the mosque to be national but also differentiate the
design from ‘foreign’ domical structure and forms. In the final decision, the architect
use parasol form as the design for dome and messing floor plan, but to make the
mosque’s design more ‘Malaysian’, he include the elements of malay architecture into
the mosque.
4.3 Malay Architecture
Diagram 4.3(a) above show the typical plan of malay house and the element from malay
house that had adapted into National mosque
Malay house floor plan can be divided into 3 parts which is front, middle and back.
There is 2 very important feature at the front part of Malay house which is Anjung and
Serambi. Anjung can be translated as verandah, is a space where you welcome your
neighbour or any visitor come to your house or can be resting area for family.
While serambi which also known as courtyard are often used as a meeting area for
family or can be a place for religion and cultural purposes.
Datuk Baharuddin wanted the national mosque to be a friendly place where everyone
are welcome to visit, so he thought of using the front part of malay house as a main
spaces in mosque so that the environment become a very welcoming space. Even
some of malaysia’s mosque have this similar features
29

30. Malaysia’s climate are always hot and humid, if we look at malay architecture, the
house are often emphasize on the ventilation within the house, they have elevated
floor plan (the pillar in malay house is called ‘wakaf’) which not just to avoid flood and
attack from animals, but also to maximise the ventilation.
4.3 Malay Architecture
Diagram 4.3(b) above show typical elevation of
malay house and the ventilation flow
In physic concept, when a building is
elevated, the wind will pass through
underneath and create cross
ventilation, forcing more cold air to
come inside and push out the hot air
which will help in decreasing
temperature of the house. The main
area for user activity like prayer hall,
open walkway are all located at first
floor due to lower temperature there.
National Mosque is very particular in
terms of comfort of user, every corner
of the building are open, surrounded
by pillars and every space became a
suitable space for user to rest, it feels
like you are resting under the malay
house.
Diagram 4.3(c) above show air-flow in National
Mosque
Figure 4.3 showing view in open walkway, courtyard
30

31. 4.4 Design concept and planning
National Mosque still stand as a unique mosque architecture to represent the
identity of national architecture. The whole form of National Mosque does not reflect
any usual dome copied from other countries ,however the architects turn the form
into an important feature to convey his message. In order to use the local and
modern language of architecture, he used form of parasol to represent the unity of
people in Malaya despite of races and religions. The open parasol signified
sheltered and embrace under the protection of god.
The important feature that reflect characteristic of modernism is the asymmetrical
massing which is uncommon during that time. As the intention is to emphasize on
the language of friendliness, the building itself contrast to the strict symmetry
feature from Islamic Architecture. Thus it will not make user feel the strong essence
of islamic architecture.
Diagram 4.4 about showing design process of the form of National Mosque, reference from Building Merdeka:
independence Architecture in Kuala Lumpur, 2007
31

32. 4.4 Design concept and planning
In terms of local climate, Datuk Baharuddin included tropical landscape planning,
enrich the values of nature environment in the surrounding. This is to remind about
humanity of the world that god created. Beside it also blend in the site as the
neighbourhood of National Mosque are initially reserved forest for future use. The
National Mosque designed to minimise heat gain by maximise the ventilation. They
applied terrazzo grillwork at almost every exterior wall not just for aesthetic lighting
purposes but for the ventilation all around the building. (MASSA Masjid Negara,2007)
The building itself surrounded by beautiful pools and water features. This is to allow
cooling effect around the mosque area and provide a peaceful environment for
worshippers. It is not only for environment friendly factor but it also emphasize on
sustainable design.
Figure 4.4 above showing the landscape view from veranda with view of fenestration for ventilation
32

33. 5.0 BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
BY: NATASHA LABITORIA
33

34. 5.0 Building Construction
The mosque is divided into two types of construction, micro and macro construction.
Macro construction is referring to the main and prominent structures such as the roof,
verandah and the minaret. While micro construction focusses more on the details of the
mosque such as the fenestrations and the columns.
MACRO CONSTRUCTION
WALLS
Walls of the mosque are built using
reinforced concrete. Reinforced concrete is stronger
than normal concrete because it has reinforcing steel
embedded in the concrete. This steel absorbs the
tensile, shear and compressive stresses in a concrete
structure.
Diagram 5.1 Reinforced
concrete 34

35. ROOF (COURTYARD)
The ceiling is made out of reinforced concrete and is designed in a grid
structure. In between each square grid is a glass panel that allows light to shine
through the gaps. This will create a heavenly ambiance for the people inside the
courtyard.
ROOF (VERANDAH)
The ceiling is constructed with waffle slabs. This goes along with the grid
concept of the mosque. As seen in the picture below, the tiles of the verandah
are in grids, hence the roof being in a grid pattern as well.
ROOF(PARASOL)
The folded plate roof structure is constructed using concrete and reinforced steel to
withstand the weather in Malaysia. In reference to the roof being shaped as a
semi-opened umbrella, the other reason is also to achieve larger spans required in
the main gathering hall. The roof is then finished with blue and green tiles.
Reinforcement
bar
Blue and green tiles
Diagram 5.3 (Section)
Glass panel
Figure 5.2 (Verandah) Diagram 5.4 (Waffle slabs)
Diagram 5.2
Figure 5.1
35

36. MINARET
The minaret consist of three parts the base,
the shaft and a gallery. Inside the shaft lies a
spiral staircase, counter-clockwise fashion
which provides necessary structural support
for the elongated shaft. The gallery is a
balcony that encircles the upper-section from
which the muezzin gives the call for prayer.
All 4 sides of the minaret is covered in
concrete grills and rectangular-shaped
terrazzo slates.
Terrazzo
slates
MICRO CONSTRUCTION
COLUMNS/PILLARS
The columns in the mosque serve as a drainage
system whenever the roof gets flooded. Hidden in
the columns are rain water drain pipes. The reason
being that it is a flat roof, so this allows rainwater to
flow from the roof through the pipes and into the
drains.
There are three different columns in the National
Mosque:
a) Cylindrical columns in the main prayer hall.
- White detailed plaster muqarnas covered
with glazed ceramic tiles arranged in a
geometric pattern.
b) Cuboid columns in the verandah
- Faced with unglazed black mosaic tiles with
strips of anodized gold coloured aluminium at
the top and the base.
c) Cuboid columns at the courtyard
- Faced with unglazed white mosaic tiles
- Supports the roof(parasol) structure
White
plaster
muqarnas
Ceramic
tiles
Black
unglazed
mosaic
Gold
aluminum
Plaster
coat
Unglazed
white
mosaic
RWDP,
RiBAR
Diagram 5.6 (Main prayer
hall)
Diagram 5.8
(Vearandah)
Diagram 5.7 (Courtyard)
Diagram 5.5 (Minaret)
36

37. FENESTRATION
This screening wall is faced with geometric-
shaped terrazzo slates. Natural light enters
and illuminates the atmosphere while the
holes in between the slates promote good
ventilation for the people praying inside.
Besides that, the fenestration also acts as a
blockage for when the sun shines too bright
as it rises from the East side of the building.
This prevents the bright sun from fully
entering the mosque. Instead, it creates a
heavenly ambiance when the rays of sun
pass through the gaps of the terrazzo
slates.
Precast terrazzo slates
Step 1.
The shape of the terrazzo is made by
molding it into container.
Step 2.
Reinforced steel bars are placed into the
container.
Step 3.
Concrete terrazzo is then poured into the
container and is left to set.
Step 4.
The hardened terrazzo slate is joined
together to create and screening wall.
Diagram 5.9
Figure 5.3 (terrazzo slates)
37

38. Similarities with a modern building
REINFORCED CONCRETE
Reinforced concrete was commonly
used for modern architecture as it was
the latest technology during that
period. Both of the buildings uses
reinforced concrete for the overall
structure.
COLUMNS
Concrete beams were used or
structural support in Wright’s
Fallingwater. This also reflects with
the National Mosque’s columns where
it is used for support and also as a
rainwater draining system. Besides
that, Wright designed his house with
cantilevered floors just like how the
mosque is designed with cantilevered
roofs.
Fallingwater, Pennsylvania National Mosque, Malaysia
Figure 5.4 (Fallingwater cantilever
design)
Figure 5.5. (National mosque cantilevered roof
and columns with RWDP))
38

39. WAFFLE SLABS
Waffle slabs were used in both the buildings
especially for the foundation in the
Fallingwater. These waffle slabs are able to
carry heavier loads and spans longer than a
normal slab as it is lighter in weight. These
slabs were used in the mosque’s verandah.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE NATIONAL MOSQUE AND FALLINGWATER
The overall finishing for the mosque is in the white color. This is because in
religion, the color white represents pureness. As for Fallingwater, it is finished with
a color that blends in with nature.
Figure 5.6 (waffle slabs used in the roof
of the courtyard)
39
Figure 5.8 (Fallingwater is full Beige) Figure 5.9 (National mosque is in full white
Diagram 5.10 (Waffle slabs used for
Falling water)

40. 6.0 ARCHITECTURE ELEMENT
BY: NATACIA MARCELLA GINOLA
40

41. 6.0 Architectural Element
ROOF
The roof structure of National Mosque consists of 16-
folded plates which are made of concrete and is
cladded with blue and green tiles. It represents the 16
states that Tunku Abdul Rahman unite including
Singapore and Borneo. The roof shelters the tombs of
the former Prime Ministers, Deputy Ministers of
Malaysia as well as symbolizing the aspiration of an
independent nation.The design was inspired from the
shape of a semi-opened umbrella.
Diagram 6.1 .1
top view of the roof
Figure 6.1 Roof of National Mosque
Diagram 6.1 .2
Semi-opened umbrella
Diagram 6.1 .3
41

42. MINARET
The minaret is placed within a water
feature in the courtyard surrounded by the
veranda. It was said to be an essential
elements that is to be built together with
the mosque. Electrical speaker is installed
to ensure that the Azan read can be
heard at a maximum radius and serves
as a reminder to the worshippers to
answer the calling of God.
The wall of the minaret is decorated by
fenestration composing of islamic
patterns. The top of the minaret is capped
with a closed umbrella concrete roof and
a star with a crescent at its peak.
Figure 6.2 Minaret
Diagram 6.2.1
Plan view showing where the
Minaret is located
Diagram 6.2.2
A folded umbrella
Diagram 6.2.3
42

43. PRAYER HALL
The prayer hall is where Muslims gather to perform their prayers. Worshippers are
commanded by Allah to pray facing the Qiblah which is the direction of Ka’bah in
Mecca. A common direction during prayer signifies that Islam is the religion of Unity:
One God, One Final Prophet Muhammad, one Revealed Guidance and One Ummah.
The prayer hall can accommodate 3000 people and covers a floor area of 23,409 sq.
The interior of the hall is beautifully decorated with triangular fanlight windows with blue
stained glass at the edge of the parasol shaped roof to evoke a calm and serene
atmosphere.Three sides of the hall are each fitted with 9 wide and decorative sliding
doors. The exterior wall of the Prayer Hall is of reinforced concrete and finished with
Italian marble in cream colour. The gallery in the prayer hall is adorned with aluminium
grill, designed with Sarasin pattern which is similar to those in the Taj Mahal
Mausoleum and the Fatehphur Sikri Mosque in India.
Figure 6.3 The interior of the prayer hall
43

44. MIHRAB
The mihrab is located inside the prayer
hall. The mihrab is a niche indicating the
direction of Makkah in which Kaabah is
located. The niche is located on the wall
and is framed with blue mosaic tiles and
printed with sacred verses from the Al-
Quran. It is heavily decorated with
patterns which reflects as an adaptation
of the Middle Eastern design.
MIMBAR
The mimbar is a pulpit where the
Khatib, the Muslim spiritual leader,
delivers his sermon to the
worshippers during a religious
gathering. It is located in the prayer
hall, right next to the mihrab. It is an
intricately carved cantilevered timber
structure.
Figure 6.4
The mihrab inside the prayer hall
Figure 6.5
The mimbar located on the right side of the mihrab
44

45. VERANDA
The veranda surrounds the Prayer
Hall. It acts as a walkway connecting
all other spaces in the National
Mosque. The veranda consist of
concrete pillars arranged uniformly and
is covered with concrete roof shaped in
inverted pyramids. The veranda allows
a large amount of daylight to penetrate
in the building.
STAIRCASES
The type of staircases found in National
Mosque are straight staircase. They are
built to be wide in order to allow for the
huge flow of human circulation especially
on Friday, where a lot of worshippers come
to pray.
Figure 6.6
A walkway leading to other areas in the mosque
Figure 6.7
A staircase leading to the second floor
Diagram 6.7.1
A straight staircase
Diagram 6.7.2 45

46. SERAMBI
The serambi is located opposite to the main entrance of the prayer hall. It has 48
white pillars supporting the building, those pillars represents a forest of coconut trees.
Where back in the olden days, fisherman used to pray under a coconut tree for
shades. The gaps between each concrete parasols allows light to penetrate through
the building.
Figure 6.8 The serambi located across the prayer hall
Diagram 6.8.1 Showing where the serambi is located
Diagram 6.8.2 a forest of coconut trees
Diagram 6.8.3
46

47. MAUSOLEUM
The Mausoleum located at the west end of the mosque is the
area where a circular cemetery is built. These tombs belong
to the former Prime Ministers and Deputy Ministers of
Malaysia. The Mausoleum is designed to look like a lotus
flower surrounded by a circular pond.The roof has a shape of
a 7 pointed star which touches the ground and also acts as a
wall. The 7 pointed star represent our 7 soldiers that sacrifice
for the country. The white roof surfaces and marble flooring
creates an atmosphere of purity and solemnity.
Figure 6.9.1 interior of the mausoleum
Figure 6.9.2
Diagram 6.9.1
The 7 soldiers
Diagram 6.9.2
7 pointed star
Diagram 6.9.3
The roof shape of mausoleum
47

48. FENESTRATION
he National Mosque has a geometric shape of screen walls which can be found in
almost all sides of the buildings. The screening allows huge amount of light to
penetrate into the building as well as allowing wind to pass through, providing
ventilation.
Allows an adequate
amount of sunlight to
penetrate through the
building
Winds are able to
blow through the
building, providing a
good air ventilation
Figure 6.10.1 geometric screen wall Figure 6.10.2
exterior facade of the mosque
Diagram 6.10.1 Diagram 6.10.2
48

49. 7.0 CONCLUSION
The National Mosque is considered to
be one of Malaysia’s symbolic modern
architecture. The architecture embodies
the spirit and inspiration of national and
multi-racial society that reflects the
universal values of humanity. The
design of Masjid Negara is unique
compared to other Mosques, it shows
the architect’s intention to use local and
modern languages of architecture to
convey his message. Using the form of
parasol to signify the unity of people in
Malaysia which comes from different
races and religions and the use of
reinforced concrete throughout the
structure of the building signifies a bold
and modern approach to a newly
independence Malaysia. The National
Mosque portrays as a masterpiece in
today’s modern architecture as it shows
a mix of modern elements combined
with Islamic patterns
49

50. 8.0 References List
1) Hussain, L. Y. (2015). Masjid Negara, The National Mosque. MASSA
Monographs. Masjid Negara.
2) Kien, L. C. (2007). Building Merdeka: Independence Architecture in Kuala
Lumpur 1957 _ 1966.
3) Rasdi, m. T. (2003). Crisis in Islamic Architecture. The Kalam paper.
4) Chan, C. Y. (2009). Post- Merdeka Architecture: Malaysia 1957- 1987.
Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia, 1987.
5) D.K.Ching. (2014). Building construction illustrated. Wiley.
6) Frampton, K. (2007). A critical history of modern architecture. Thames & hudson.
7) Kalam, M. (2003). Traditional Muslim Architecture .
8) Chen, V.F. (1998). The Encyclopedia of Malaysia: Architecture. Singapore:
Archipelago Press
9) Malaysia architecture: Crisis within. (2005).Kuala Lumpur: Utusan Publications &
Distributors.
10) Yeang, K. (1992). The Architecture of Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: The
Pepin Press.
11) Petruccioli, Attilo, and Khalil K. Pirani.(2003) Understanding Islamic Architecture,
Taylor and Francis.
12) Colquhoun, Alan. (2002). Modern Architecture, Oxford University Press, 2002.
13) Ismail,S. (2008, September). The influence of Islamic Political Ideology on the
Design of Stata Mosque in West Malaysia (1957-2003). Retrieved from
http://eprints.qut.edu.au/19371/1/AliceIsmailThesis.pdf
14) Lim, J. Y. (n.d.). The traditional Malay house. Retrieved from
http://unossc1.undp.org?GSSBAcademy/SIE/Doc/Vol4/Malayhouse.pdf
15) Masjid Negara( National Mosque) – Islamic Tourism Centre of Malaysia. (n.d.).
Retrieved from http://www.itc.gov.my/masjid-negara-national-mosque/
16) National Mosque of Malaysia. (2017). Retrieved from Wikipedia:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Mosque_of_Malaysia
50

51. The End
51