Surau An-Nur UPSI

Welcome to Surau An-Nur UPSI, a significant spiritual landmark nestled within the Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) campus in Tanjong Malim, Perak. This surau, or prayer hall, serves as a vital hub for Muslim students, staff, and the wider local community, providing a serene and conducive environment for worship, contemplation, and community gatherings. More than just a place for prayer, Surau An-Nur UPSI embodies a sense of tranquility and community, fostering spiritual growth and solidarity among its visitors. Its history is intertwined with the university itself, having been built simultaneously with the Suluh Budiman Building in August 1919 and completed in June 1922. It was designed by the renowned Federated Malay States architect, Kestevan, and was also known as Surau Pak Aris, named after a photographer who managed it in the 1980s. Today, it stands as a fully refurbished and modernized facility, managed by the Islamic Centre of UPSI, continuously striving to meet the needs of its congregants.

Surau An-Nur UPSI is conveniently located at 1, 35900 Tanjong Malim, Perak, Malaysia. Its position within the UPSI campus makes it easily accessible for anyone studying or working at the university. For those coming from outside the campus, Tanjong Malim is well-connected by road, making the surau a straightforward destination. Whether you're driving, taking public transport, or simply walking from nearby areas, reaching Surau An-Nur is hassle-free. The surau's location within the university grounds also provides a sense of security and a peaceful atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of the main town. There's ample space for parking, ensuring a smooth experience for those arriving by car. Its proximity to other university facilities means it's often a convenient stop for students and staff throughout their day.

Surau An-Nur UPSI provides a range of essential services to cater to the spiritual needs of the community. These include:

• Daily Prayers (Solat): The surau is open for all five daily congregational prayers, offering a dedicated space for Muslims to fulfill their religious obligations.
• Juma'ah Prayers: On Fridays, the surau hosts the weekly Juma'ah (Friday) prayer, an important congregational prayer for Muslim men.
• Religious Classes and Lectures: While specific schedules may vary, suraus often organize religious classes, talks, and lectures to promote Islamic knowledge and understanding among the community. These can cover various topics, from Quranic studies to Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence).
• Tarawih Prayers (during Ramadan): During the holy month of Ramadan, Surau An-Nur UPSI is expected to host special Tarawih prayers, a significant part of nightly worship during this blessed period.
• Iftar Gatherings (during Ramadan): Community iftar (breaking fast) gatherings are often organized, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared blessings during Ramadan.
• Space for Reflection and Rest: As noted by visitors, the surau offers a comfortable environment not only for prayer but also for resting, especially for students after long classes.

Surau An-Nur UPSI boasts several features that make it a welcoming and functional place of worship:

• Cleanliness: Visitors consistently highlight the surau's cleanliness, a crucial aspect for any place of worship. This dedication to hygiene ensures a comfortable and pleasant experience for all.
• Comfortable Environment: The surau is noted for its comfortable atmosphere, providing a serene space for prayer, contemplation, and even a brief respite for individuals, particularly students, seeking peace after a demanding day.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: The surau has been completely refurbished, newly painted, and equipped with a modern speaker system, indicating a commitment to providing up-to-date and functional facilities for its congregants.
• Separate Prayer Areas: While one review mentioned the Muslimah (women's) area being "quite small," the presence of separate prayer areas ensures privacy and comfort for both men and women.
• Open Aisle for Wudhu: The open aisle between the prayer area and the wudhu (ablution) area is a practical design choice, allowing for ease of movement and accessibility for those performing ablution.
• Historical Significance: As a building dating back to the early 20th century, Surau An-Nur holds historical value within the UPSI campus, adding a layer of cultural richness to its spiritual purpose.
• Managed by Islamic Centre of UPSI: Being under the management of the UPSI Islamic Centre suggests a structured approach to its upkeep and the organization of religious activities.

As a surau primarily serving the university community and local residents, Surau An-Nur UPSI does not typically offer commercial promotions or special discounts in the traditional sense. Its "offerings" are more spiritual and communal in nature. However, it may hold special programs or events, particularly during Islamic holidays or significant dates, which could be considered as beneficial "offers" to the community. These might include:

• Special Iftar Programs: During Ramadan, there might be sponsored iftar meals, which are a form of community service and a spiritual offering.
• Guest Speaker Series: Occasionally, renowned Islamic scholars or speakers might be invited to deliver lectures, providing valuable insights and knowledge to attendees.
• Community Outreach Programs: The Islamic Centre of UPSI, which manages the surau, might organize charitable initiatives or outreach programs that benefit the wider community, encouraging participation from surau attendees.
• Youth Programs: For students, there could be dedicated youth programs, workshops, or study circles designed to foster religious understanding and personal development.

To stay informed about any upcoming events, lectures, or special programs at Surau An-Nur UPSI, it is advisable to check notice boards within the surau, the UPSI Islamic Centre's official announcements, or relevant university communication channels.

For those wishing to visit or inquire further about Surau An-Nur UPSI, here is the direct contact information:

Address: 1, 35900 Tanjong Malim, Perak, Malaysia

While a direct phone number for the surau itself is not publicly listed, inquiries related to the surau's activities or management can typically be directed to the Islamic Centre of Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI). You can usually find their contact details on the official UPSI website.

Surau An-Nur UPSI stands as a truly suitable and valuable spiritual resource for locals in Tanjong Malim, Perak. Its prime location within the UPSI campus makes it incredibly convenient, particularly for the large student and staff population, but also easily accessible for residents in surrounding areas. The surau’s dedication to maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and comfort, as repeatedly highlighted by visitors, ensures a pleasant and conducive environment for worship and reflection. This focus on comfort allows individuals to truly focus on their prayers and find solace, whether it's during a brief break from studies or a moment of quiet contemplation.

Beyond its physical attributes, the services offered, including daily and Juma'ah prayers, along with potential religious classes and seasonal programs like Tarawih prayers, cater directly to the spiritual needs of the Muslim community. It acts as a focal point for communal prayer, fostering a strong sense of unity and brotherhood/sisterhood among congregants. For students, it offers a vital spiritual anchor and a space for rest and mental rejuvenation amidst their academic pursuits. For the wider local community, it provides a welcoming place for worship and an opportunity to connect with fellow Muslims. The surau's management by the UPSI Islamic Centre further ensures its continued upkeep and the organization of meaningful religious activities. In essence, Surau An-Nur UPSI is more than just a building; it is a community pillar, providing essential spiritual services and a peaceful haven for all who seek it in Tanjong Malim. Its blend of modern amenities, historical roots, and unwavering commitment to serving the faithful makes it an indispensable part of the local landscape.

Surau An-Nur UPSI

1, 35900 Tanjong Malim, Perak, Malaysia