The Old Mosque of Kampung Hulu

Built in the 1700s, Kampung Hulu Mosque is said to be the oldest functioning mosque in Malaysia. Situated in the heart of Malacca City, this mosque was built by a man named Aroon or Harun from China whom embraced Islam during his visit to Malacca.

Not to be confused with another mosque called Kapitan Keling Mosque, this Kampung Hulu Mosque is within the walking distance from Jonker Street and is very much active.

During the Portuguese occupation, they have demolished all muslim religious houses. Being a strong Catholic, it was said this could be the beginning of Christianity in Malaya.

However, when the Dutch took over Malacca from the Portuguese, Catholic took a back seat as the Dutch were strong Protestants. It is during this time that the Dutch allows the malay muslims to rebuild their religious houses thus making Kampung Hulu Mosque the first mosque to be built in Malacca.

We could see the Chinese influence in the architectural structure of the mosque where the dome of the mosque resembles a pagoda.

As we entered the main gate of the mosque, we could see the ablution pool or more fondly known among the Malaysian muslims as ‘kolah’. This is the traditional way to take our ablution before normal water pipes were introduced.

The mosque is open to non muslims to visit with robes and hijab readily made available.