The first floating mosque
On a platform in the lagoon since 1995.
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Malaysia's first true floating mosque, set on a platform in the Kuala Ibai lagoon near the river mouth, about four kilometres from central Kuala Terengganu, so that when the water is high it seems to float. It was built between 1993 and 1995, opened in July 1995 by Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah, and named after his mother, Tengku Tengah Zaharah. Its brilliant white architecture blends modern and Moorish styles with marble, ceramics and mosaic, over some five acres, and it holds about two thousand worshippers. Its white dome and minaret are mirrored in the still water around it, one of Terengganu's loveliest sights at sunrise and sunset. Entry is free; non-Muslims visit outside prayer times in modest dress covering arms and legs, with a headscarf for women. Muslims pray here at prayer times, and it is quieter and less crowded than the Crystal Mosque. The Kuala Ibai lagoon park and beach are close by, so the visit can become a family outing in the late afternoon, then wait for sunset over the lagoon. Photographs from the opposite bank show the whole mosque with its reflection.
On a platform in the lagoon since 1995.
White marble, ceramics and mosaic.
Dome and minaret on the still lagoon.
Kuala Ibai lagoon, about 4 km south of the city centre
The Crystal Mosque is more famous and modern and glows at night; the Floating Mosque is quieter and more elegant in its white Moorish style. They are close together, so visit the Floating Mosque in the afternoon and the Crystal Mosque at sunset.