Ihsaniah Iskandariah Mosque, Kuala Kangsar
OPEN FOR PUBLIC. SOME AREAS MAY BE PROHIBITED.
CHARGES MAY APPLY FOR SOME AREAS OR ACTIVITIES.
Commissioned by Sultan Iskandar Shah, the 30th Sultan of Perak, the mosque was constructed in 1936 and officially inaugurated on 11 February 1938. The Sultan's inspiration stemmed from witnessing villagers praying in a dilapidated madrasah during his return from a picnic at Lata Bubu. Moved by their devotion, he vowed to build a proper mosque, especially after his son's recovery from an illness, fulfilling his promise with this unique edifice.
The mosque's architecture is distinctive, resembling a birdcage, a design choice that sets it apart from typical mosque structures. Its two-story rectangular plan features walls made entirely of woven bamboo panels, known as "kelarai," showcasing intricate diamond motifs. These panels were crafted by local artisans, reflecting traditional Malay craftsmanship. The upper floor serves as the prayer hall, accommodating approximately 200 congregants, while the ground floor was historically used for community gatherings and religious classes.
A notable feature is the mosque's 20 windows, each adorned with carvings of shark gill motifs, bean shoots, crescent moons and five-pointed stars. The joints of the bamboo walls are embellished with the "tikam seladang" flower motif, adding to the mosque's aesthetic appeal. The building's color scheme - yellow, white and black - mirrors the colors of the Perak state flag, further emphasizing its cultural significance.
After being abandoned in 1976 due to structural damage from a fallen durian tree branch, the mosque underwent extensive restoration. The Department of National Heritage initiated conservation efforts in 2008, sourcing skilled weavers and suitable bamboo from Perlis to replicate the original materials. The restoration was completed in December 2009 and the mosque was subsequently designated as a national heritage site.
Today, Masjid Ihsaniah Iskandariah stands not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of Perak's dedication to preserving its historical and cultural landmarks. Visitors can appreciate its unique architecture and the stories it embodies, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in Malaysia's rich heritage.
