Kelantan: Masjid Kampung Laut Nilam Puri...

"There is nothing new in the world except the history you do not know..." - Harry S Truman

(The oldest Mosque in Malaysia)

Masjid Kampung Laut is the oldest surviving mosque in Malaysia. It dates to around the early 18th century. It is located in Jalan Kuala Krai in Nilam Puri, Kelantan. Masjid Kampung Laut was built in the 15th century by a group of fishermen consisting of those from Pattani, Jawa and Brunei sea routers. Its style is largely typical of local traditional architecture, and climate-appropriate, similar to local houses in the area. The original mosque had a basic architectural styles and structure with four pillars and had palm fronds for the roof.

(A solat break at the oldest mosque)

By virtue of architectural resemblance, it is said that the mosque was the original Masjid Agung Demak that was built in 1401. The mosque was relocated from its original site to Kampung Laut, hence the name. During the reign of the Sultan of Kelantan between 1859 and 1900, the mosque became an important meeting point for the Sultans and religious leaders. The mosque was also used as a trading post. During this period, the mosque was expanded and upgraded with 20 pillars, a three-tiered roof, a Muezzin tower, an attic, and a water tank while the flooring was made of good quality timber.

(The history of relocation of the mosque)

The mosque has survived two big floods that occurred in Kelantan, the first is in 1926 when a flood known as Bah Air Merah and another in 1966. The second flood severely damaged the mosque when parts of the mosque close to the river was swept away by flood waters. However, the damages were able to be repaired and restored.

(Entering the town of Kota Bharu)