Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman Klang – A Royal Heritage Mosque in Selangor

Introduction

Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman in Klang, Selangor, stands as one of Malaysia’s most iconic royal mosques. Known for its unique Art Deco architecture, this mosque is not only a spiritual sanctuary but also a national heritage treasure that reflects the rich history and artistic culture of the Selangor Sultanate. Built in 1932 and completed in 1933, the mosque remains one of the few Islamic structures in Malaysia featuring Art Deco elements and bas-relief murals, making it a true architectural gem.

History of Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman

Construction of the Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman began in 1932 under the reign of Sultan Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah, the fifth Sultan of Selangor. The design was entrusted to Leofric Kesteven, an architect from the Public Works Department (JKR) Selangor, who adopted the Art Deco style—a bold and modern architectural approach rarely used in mosque design at that time.

The mosque was completed in 1933 and handed over to the Sultan. Its distinctive design, vibrant colours, and artistic decorations quickly made it a significant landmark in Klang, often referred to as the Royal Town of Selangor.

Architectural Design and Unique Features

Art Deco Influence

Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman is Malaysia’s only Art Deco-style mosque, making it stand out among other Islamic landmarks. The mosque’s structure combines modernist lines with royal colours such as red, yellow, sky blue, and green, symbolizing Selangor’s identity and landscape.

Bas-Relief Mural Artworks

One of the mosque’s most remarkable features is its 70 ‘bas-relief’ murals—a form of shallow relief sculpture where images are raised slightly from the background, similar to designs on coins. These murals depict plants, rivers, hills, and sea scenes representing the natural beauty of the Klang region.

During the 1970s renovation, the murals were accidentally covered with cement and white paint. However, in 2016, conservation works led by the Lembaga Pembangunan Seni Visual Negara (LPSVN) successfully uncovered and restored these intricate artworks, bringing back the mosque’s original charm.

National Heritage Status and Restoration Efforts

In 2012, Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman was officially declared a National Heritage Site under the National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645) by the Department of National Heritage.

To preserve its architectural and artistic legacy, a full conservation project was launched in 2016 in collaboration with JKR Selangor and LPSVN. This initiative restored the bas-relief murals, colour scheme, and original design elements, ensuring that the mosque continues to stand as a symbol of Selangor’s royal and cultural pride.

Visiting Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman

Address:
Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman, Jalan Raya Timur, Kawasan 1, Klang, Selangor, Malaysia

Visiting Hours:
Open daily for worshippers and visitors. Non-Muslim visitors are advised to visit outside prayer times and dress modestly.

Accessibility:
Located in the heart of Klang, the mosque is easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transport. It’s just minutes away from Klang Komuter Station and connected to major routes like Federal Highway and North Klang Straits Bypass. Parking facilities are available within the mosque compound.

Why Visit Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman?

• Historic Importance: The oldest royal mosque in Klang, commissioned by Sultan Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah.
• Architectural Uniqueness: The only mosque in Malaysia featuring Art Deco architecture and bas-relief mural art.
• Cultural Symbolism: A heritage site that embodies Selangor’s royal and artistic legacy.
• Restoration Excellence: Expertly conserved to preserve Malaysia’s cultural and religious heritage.

FAQs about Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman

1. When was Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman built?
Construction began in 1932 and was completed in 1933.

2. Who designed the mosque?
The mosque was designed by Leofric Kesteven of the Public Works Department (JKR) Selangor.

3. What makes this mosque unique?
It’s the only Art Deco-style mosque in Malaysia, decorated with over 70 bas-relief mural artworks.

4. Is the mosque open to tourists?
Yes, the mosque welcomes visitors daily. Non-Muslim visitors should visit outside prayer times and wear appropriate attire.

5. What heritage status does the mosque hold?
It was registered as a National Heritage Site in 2012 under the National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645).

Conclusion

The Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman in Klang is not just a place of worship—it’s a living monument of Malaysia’s royal, artistic, and cultural heritage. Its Art Deco design, historic murals, and royal symbolism make it one of Selangor’s most treasured landmarks. Whether you are a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or cultural explorer, a visit to this royal heritage mosque in Klang offers an inspiring journey into Malaysia’s Islamic artistry and royal legacy.