Buyati Ningsih

Assalamualaikum and warm greetings to all our fellow Selangor residents! When we talk about iconic landmarks in Shah Alam, one magnificent structure immediately comes to mind: the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque. Affectionately known as the "Blue Mosque" by locals and visitors alike, this architectural marvel isn't just a place of worship; it's a profound symbol of Islamic heritage, a testament to stunning design, and a vibrant hub for the Muslim community in Selangor and beyond.

Commissioned by the late Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah when Shah Alam was declared the new capital of Selangor in 1974, construction of this grand mosque began in 1982 and was completed in 1988. It proudly stands as the state mosque of Selangor, holding the distinction of being the largest mosque in Malaysia and the second-largest in Southeast Asia by capacity. Its most striking feature, the majestic blue and silver dome, along with its towering minarets, dominates the Shah Alam skyline, visible from many vantage points, even from parts of Kuala Lumpur on a clear day. For us locals, it's a familiar and comforting sight, a beacon of faith and beauty in our beloved state capital.

The Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque is strategically located in Seksyen 14, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia. Its prominent position makes it a central landmark within the city, easily identifiable by its distinct blue dome and four towering minarets. This prime location ensures excellent accessibility for both local residents and visitors from other parts of Selangor and Malaysia.

The mosque is situated amidst a sprawling 14-hectare landscaped park known as the Garden of Islamic Arts, which further enhances its majestic presence and provides a serene environment. Reaching the mosque is convenient, whether you're driving your own vehicle, opting for ride-hailing services, or utilizing public transportation. Ample parking facilities are generally available around the mosque complex, accommodating the large number of worshippers and visitors it attracts, especially during Friday prayers and major Islamic festivals. Its location in Seksyen 14, a well-developed area of Shah Alam, means it's well-connected to major roads and highways, ensuring smooth access from various residential and commercial areas across Selangor. This ease of access makes it not just a place of worship but also a popular destination for those seeking spiritual solace or simply wishing to admire its grandeur.

As the state mosque, the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities that cater to the spiritual, educational, and communal needs of the Muslim population in Selangor. These services are vital to fostering a strong and knowledgeable Muslim community:

• Five Daily Prayers (Solat Fardhu): The mosque provides spacious and fully air-conditioned prayer halls for men and women, ensuring a comfortable environment for all five daily congregational prayers.
• Jumaat Prayer (Friday Congregational Prayer): As a major mosque, it is the primary venue for the weekly Friday prayer, drawing a large congregation from across Shah Alam and surrounding districts.
• Tarawih Prayers (during Ramadan): During the holy month of Ramadan, the mosque organizes special Tarawih prayers, attracting thousands of worshippers nightly.
• Iftar and Sahur Programs (during Ramadan): Community Iftar (breaking fast) and Sahur (pre-dawn meal) programs are often held, fostering camaraderie during Ramadan.
• Qur'an Recitation and Study Sessions: Regular classes and study circles are conducted for learning and understanding the Holy Qur'an and various Islamic sciences.
• Religious Lectures and Sermons (Ceramah Agama): Prominent scholars and religious figures deliver lectures on various Islamic topics, providing spiritual guidance and knowledge to the public.
• Nikah (Marriage Solemnization): The mosque often facilitates Nikah ceremonies, serving as a sacred venue for new beginnings.
• Funeral Services (Jenazah): Facilities and services for funeral rites are typically available, offering support to grieving families.
• Library: A well-stocked library provides resources for Islamic research and learning, accessible to students and the general public.
• Conference and Lecture Rooms: Equipped with modern amenities, these rooms host various religious seminars, workshops, and community meetings.
• Islamic Art Galleries: As part of the Garden of Islamic Arts, there are galleries showcasing a rich array of Islamic arts, including calligraphy, sculptures, and paintings, providing an educational and cultural experience.

The Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque is replete with features and highlights that make it a truly remarkable landmark, both architecturally and spiritually:

• Largest Dome in the World: It boasts one of the largest religious domes in the world, measuring 51.2 meters (168 ft) in diameter and reaching 106.7 meters (350 ft) above ground level. This colossal blue and silver dome is its most iconic and distinguishing feature.
• Tallest Minarets in the World (formerly): Its four minarets, each soaring to 142.3 meters (467 ft), were once listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the tallest in the world. They remain among the tallest globally and contribute significantly to the mosque's imposing silhouette.
• Stunning Architecture and Design: The mosque showcases a beautiful fusion of Malay and Modernist architectural styles, incorporating intricate Islamic and Malay elements. Fine decorative khat (Arabic calligraphy) adorns the inner curve of the dome and walls, executed by the renowned Egyptian calligrapher Shiekh Abdel Moneim Mohamed Ali El Sharkawi.
• Blue Stained Glass Windows: The windows are fitted with blue stained glass, which not only reduces the amount of light entering the hall but also bathes the interior in a serene bluish ambiance, evoking a sense of peace and tranquility.
• Vast Capacity: The main prayer hall alone spans two levels and is fully carpeted and air-conditioned, with the capacity to accommodate 24,000 worshippers at any one time, making it one of the largest prayer spaces globally.
• Garden of Islamic Arts: The mosque overlooks a beautiful 14-hectare landscaped park inspired by the Quranic Garden of Paradise (Jannah). This spiritual sanctuary houses nine galleries exhibiting a rich array of Islamic arts, offering an enriching cultural experience.
• Donations from the Sultan: The mosque features four crystal chandeliers and an antique clock, which were personal gifts from the late Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, adding to its regal splendour.

As a state mosque and a place of worship, the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque does not engage in commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the retail sense. Its purpose is to serve the spiritual and educational needs of the community, and its "offerings" are primarily focused on enriching faith, knowledge, and community bonds.

However, we can highlight the invaluable "offers" it provides to the community and visitors:

• Open Access to Spiritual Guidance: The mosque regularly hosts religious lectures, tazkirah (reminders), and study circles, offering free access to Islamic knowledge and spiritual guidance from respected scholars.
• Aesthetic and Cultural Enrichment: Its magnificent architecture, intricate calligraphy, and the accompanying Garden of Islamic Arts provide a unique opportunity for cultural appreciation and aesthetic enjoyment, free of charge for visitors.
• Community Unity and Support: By facilitating congregational prayers and various community programs, the mosque offers an invaluable platform for fostering unity, mutual support, and social cohesion among the Muslim population.
• Educational Opportunities: With its library and dedicated lecture rooms, the mosque provides continuous educational opportunities for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Islam, often through free classes or accessible courses.
• Tranquil Retreat: For individuals seeking solace and peace, the mosque provides a serene and spacious environment for personal prayer and reflection, serving as a spiritual oasis in the bustling city.

These "offers" represent the enduring value and profound impact the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque has on the lives of locals, far exceeding any material promotion.

For detailed information regarding prayer times, special events, or any administrative inquiries, the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque provides direct contact channels. As a major state mosque, it typically maintains a public presence for ease of communication.

• Address: Seksyen 14, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia. (It is widely known and easily locatable given its prominence in Seksyen 14).
• Phone: While a direct general inquiry line for the mosque itself might vary or be managed by the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS), you can often find contact details for state mosques through official religious council websites or by inquiring with the mosque administration directly during office hours. For the most accurate and up-to-date contact information, locals often refer to official directories or visit the mosque's administrative office.

Visitors interested in tours or specific information can also often find details through the Selangor State Tourism website or by contacting local tourism information centers in Shah Alam.

For the people of Selangor, particularly those residing in Shah Alam, the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque is far more than just a grand building; it is a profound symbol of identity, a vibrant center of faith, and an essential part of daily life. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted, beginning with its unparalleled accessibility and central location in Seksyen 14, making it convenient for countless individuals to perform their daily prayers, especially the crucial Friday congregational prayers.

Beyond its function as a house of worship, the mosque serves as a comprehensive hub for spiritual, educational, and cultural activities. It provides a conducive environment for learning about Islam through its lectures, study sessions, and well-equipped library. The magnificent architecture and the serene Garden of Islamic Arts offer not just a place for prayer, but also a source of pride and a tranquil space for reflection, enriching the lives of everyone who visits. For families, it's a place where children can learn about their faith and connect with their community. For individuals, it's a sanctuary for solace and a beacon of guidance. The sheer scale and beauty of the Blue Mosque inspire awe and devotion, making it a source of collective pride for all Selangorians. It truly embodies the spirit of community, faith, and progress that defines our state.

Buyati Ningsih

Seksyen 14, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia