Masjid Negeri Sultan Abu Bakar Johor Bahru – A Royal Legacy of Faith and Architecture

Address: Masjid Negeri Sultan Abu Bakar, Jalan Gertak Merah, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Overview

Perched gracefully on Ledang Hill overlooking the Straits of Tebrau, Masjid Negeri Sultan Abu Bakar stands as Johor’s proud State Mosque and one of Malaysia’s most stunning architectural landmarks. Built between 1892 and 1900 under the commission of Sultan Abu Bakar, the mosque exemplifies Johor’s era of progress and elegance at the turn of the 20th century.

Historical Background

Designed by Tuan Haji Mohamad bin Haji Arif bin Haji Punak (Haji Siwek) and engineered by Dato’ Yahya bin Awaluddin, the mosque’s construction cost approximately 400,000 Malayan dollars—a reflection of its royal importance.

Upon completion in 1900, Sultan Abu Bakar inaugurated the mosque himself in a grand ceremony marked by a 21-cannon salute, witnessed by Dato’ Jaafar bin Haji Mohamad, Johor’s first Menteri Besar. Since then, the mosque has served as the spiritual and cultural heart of Johor.

Architectural Significance

Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar showcases a blend of Victorian and Mughal Indian architectural styles, harmoniously merging European grandeur with Islamic elegance.

The mosque’s arches and domes are reminiscent of the Man Mandir Palace in Gwalior, India, while its twin columns and façade design reflect Victorian influences. The mosque follows a rectangular layout with four towering minarets, each rising four storeys high and topped with elegant domes.

Inside, the main prayer hall is rectangular and crowned with a bumbung perabung lima (five-ridge roof), reflecting elements of traditional Malay architecture. Surrounding the hall is a 1.5-metre-wide veranda, and the ablution area is conveniently located on the eastern side at ground level.

Unique Features and Craftsmanship

A standout feature of Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar is its stucco plaster wall moulding, a hallmark of colonial architecture. These decorative mouldings prevent rainwater from damaging the walls while adding intricate detailing to the exterior.

The mouldings can be seen along:

• Wall and ceiling junctions
• The base and capitals of columns
• Parapet walls between columns
• The arches and façade detailing

Each element showcases meticulous Islamic artistry combined with European precision, creating a structure that is both functional and breathtakingly beautiful.

Visiting Masjid Negeri Sultan Abu Bakar

Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar remains a fully functioning mosque and a popular tourist attraction in Johor Bahru. Visitors can explore the grounds and admire the architecture, provided they adhere to the mosque’s guidelines.

Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: Open daily (visiting hours may vary during prayer times).
• Dress Code: Modest attire is mandatory. Women should cover their hair, arms, and legs.
• Photography: Allowed in public and exterior areas; avoid photographing worshippers during prayer.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for ideal lighting and cooler temperatures.
• Accessibility: Easily accessible by car or taxi from Johor Bahru city centre.

Nearby Attractions

• Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple – A symbol of unity among local Chinese communities.
• Istana Besar (Grand Palace) – The royal palace built during the same era as the mosque.
• Johor Bahru Heritage Trail – Explore the city’s colonial-era landmarks.
• Dataran Bandaraya Johor Bahru – A popular leisure area with scenic views.

Why Visit Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar

Masjid Negeri Sultan Abu Bakar is more than just a place of worship—it’s a cultural icon that encapsulates Johor’s royal history, architectural brilliance, and spiritual identity. Whether you’re a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or traveller seeking cultural depth, this mosque is a must-see destination in Johor Bahru.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Who built Masjid Negeri Sultan Abu Bakar?
The mosque was commissioned by Sultan Abu Bakar and designed by Tuan Haji Mohamad bin Haji Arif bin Haji Punak, with engineering led by Dato’ Yahya bin Awaluddin.

Q2. When was Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar completed?
Construction began in 1892 and was completed in 1900, officially inaugurated by Sultan Abu Bakar.

Q3. What is the architectural style of the mosque?
The mosque features a blend of Victorian and Mughal Indian architecture, complemented by traditional Malay roof design.

Q4. Can non-Muslims visit Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar?
Yes, non-Muslim visitors are welcome outside of prayer times, provided they dress modestly and behave respectfully within the mosque grounds.

Q5. Where is Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar located?
It is located on Jalan Gertak Merah, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia, overlooking the Straits of Tebrau.

Q6. What makes Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar unique?
Its combination of Islamic, Victorian, and Mughal architectural styles, along with detailed stucco wall mouldings, make it one of Malaysia’s most iconic and beautiful mosques.

Conclusion

Masjid Negeri Sultan Abu Bakar stands as a symbol of Johor’s royal vision and cultural identity. With its remarkable architectural design and historical significance, it continues to captivate both worshippers and visitors, remaining a timeless monument to faith, artistry, and heritage.