Batak Rabit Mosque, Teluk Intan
OPEN FOR PUBLIC. SOME AREAS MAY BE PROHIBITED.
CHARGES MAY APPLY FOR SOME AREAS OR ACTIVITIES.
Journey through time at Masjid Jamek Kampung Batak Rabit, a hidden gem nestled just 5-7 km from Teluk Intan along the riverbank. Esteemed to be over a century old, this mosque was originally erected from high-quality tropical timber by Laksamana Tok Tambah, the aide to Sultan Abdullah II of Perak, best known for the Birch assassination incident.
In 1885, the mosque underwent its most significant transformation: rebuilt in brick and mortar - materials that have endured to this day. This renovation not only enhanced durability but also marked the community's commitment to preserving spiritual heritage.
Architecturally, Batak Rabit Mosque is an eclectic marvel. Designed as a synthesis of Malay and European influences - with overlapping tiered roofs reminiscent of archipelago mosques and a round concrete minaret that resembles a lighthouse - the structure is thought to draw inspiration from Java's 15th-century Demak Mosque.
Its minaret is particularly distinctive: unlike traditional square wooden towers, this cylindrical concrete beacon once likely served as a guiding landmark for river travelers approaching Teluk Intan. Inside, sturdy concrete pillars and elegant concrete arches adorned with Quranic calligraphy support the prayer hall, embodying skilled craftsmanship of a bygone era.
Surrounding the mosque lies a quiet historical cemetery belonging to Tok Tambah's lineage - an intimate testament to the mosque's long-standing ties with local heritage. It also forms part of Perak's Heritage Trail championed by the Perak Society of History Lovers, preserving its place in the state's cultural tapestry.
Today, Masjid Kampung Batak Rabit stands not only as a place of worship but as an enduring monument of architectural beauty and living history. Whether you're drawn to spiritual serenity, architectural intrigue or historical depth, this riverside landmark invites travelers to discover one of Perak's most compelling heritage sites.
