Masjid Putra, also known as Putra Mosque, is located in Putrajaya, Malaysia. The mosque was constructed as part of the development of the new federal government administrative center. Its construction began on March 15, 1996, and the mosque was officially opened on August 30, 2000. It is named after Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, Almarhum Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al Haj.
Masjid Putra - Putrajaya Corporation
History and Construction
The mosque was constructed as a key component of the Putrajaya project, which aimed to establish a new administrative capital for Malaysia. The mosque was designed with the goal of symbolizing the importance of Islam within the nation's governance and cultural identity. It is situated near Putrajaya Lake and adjacent to the Prime Minister’s Department complex, with its location emphasizing the central role of Islam in the country.
The mosque was built using rose-tinted granite, with its design reflecting a combination of traditional and modern elements. The mosque’s architectural style integrates influences from Persian architecture during the Safavid period, along with contemporary construction techniques and technologies.
Architectural Design
Masjid Putra incorporates Islamic design principles, with specific influence from Persian architecture. A significant feature of the mosque is its 116-meter-high minaret, which is shaped like an eight-pointed star. The minaret consists of five tiers, symbolizing the Five Pillars of Islam and the five daily prayers.
The mosque’s main dome, which measures 36 meters in diameter and rises 63 meters above the prayer hall floor, features Arabic-inspired motifs and plant carvings. It is surrounded by eight smaller domes positioned at the four corners of the mosque. The top of the main dome is adorned with golden carvings.
The main dome of Masjid Putra - Putrajaya Corporation
The mosque also includes Muqarnas, which are three-dimensional ornamental features located at the four corners of the mosque. These elements are designed to enhance the visual appearance of the ceiling when illuminated.
Functional Areas
The mosque is divided into several key functional areas. The main prayer hall, located on the lower floor, has a capacity of over 8,000 worshippers. This hall is supported by twelve columns, each 63 meters in height, made of marble and decorated with serai wood carvings that combine Islamic calligraphy and geometric patterns. The prayer hall is illuminated by ceiling lights and chandeliers.
The main prayer hall of Masjid Putra - Putrajaya Corporation
The Sahn (courtyard) in front of the prayer hall can hold up to 5,000 people. It is designed with decorative water features, which symbolize the purity of the Islamic faith. The courtyard is surrounded by colonnades, offering shade and providing a space for worshippers to move between the indoor and outdoor areas.
The mosque’s women's prayer hall, located on the first floor, has a capacity of around 2,000 worshippers. It is separated from other areas by a cengal wood fence, which is carved with local plant motifs.
Additional Facilities
In addition to its primary religious functions, Masjid Putra houses various facilities to support community and educational activities. The lower floors contain a multipurpose auditorium, with a capacity of 400 people, used for conferences, seminars, and other events. A dining hall is also available, with space for over 700 people, providing facilities for meals during events.
The mosque includes classrooms for educational programs, as well as ablution areas, restrooms, and funeral management facilities. The administrative office and library are located on the lower floors, with resources available for both worshippers and the public.
Visitor Accessibility
Masjid Putra is open to visitors of all backgrounds, though visitors are expected to adhere to a dress code. Women are required to wear a headscarf when entering the mosque. The mosque is situated within landscaped gardens, and visitors can view the surrounding Putrajaya Lake, as well as nearby office and residential areas connected by bridges. The mosque’s location offers access to green spaces, providing an area for walking and relaxation.
