Tag: minaret

Penang Street Art (Kapal Haji @ Acheen Street Mosque)

Acheen Street Mosque (Masjid Melayu (Jamek) Lebuh Acheh) in Penang was founded in 1808 by Tengku Syed Hussain Al-Aidid, an Arab trader from Aceh, Sumatra. What makes it unique is that the mosque not only served as a place of worship but also as a center for trade and diplomacy among the Arab, Indian, and Malay Muslim communities in early Penang. The surrounding area, known as “Malay Town”, became a vibrant hub for merchants and pilgrims heading to Mecca.

An interesting connection between Acheen Street Mosque’s minaret and a lighthouse is that some believe the octagonal minaret was designed to resemble a beacon for travelers—just like a lighthouse guiding ships. Since the mosque was historically linked to Hajj pilgrims and traders, its tower-like minaret might have symbolized guidance and direction, much like how a lighthouse helps sailors navigate.

Cannon Street View: Acheen Street Mosque Tower

The tower of Acheen Street Mosque comes into view as one walks along Cannon Street. The popular ‘A Boy Reaching Up’ mural of Ernest Zacharevic can also be spotted at the wall of the house on the right of the street.

George Town Street View: Acheen Mosque Minaret during CNY

A view of Cannon Street decorated with red lanterns during Chinese New Year, with the minaret of Acheen Street Mosque standing at the background in George Town.

Penang Hill Mosque

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As the only mosque at the top of Penang Hill, the old Penang Hill Mosque (or Masjid Bukit Bendera) serves as the the ‘highest’ Muslim place of worship for the local community there.

Note: Today marks the first day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, a festive holiday season celebrated by all Muslims here. Therefore, to all Muslims out there, Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri!