Lebuh Acheh Mosque

Thursday, May 17 2012

REFLECTING the earliest Muslim urban community in Penang, the Acheen Street Mosque and its surrounding complex is historically and architecturally important to George Town as a living heritage site.

Also known as Masjid Melayu Lebuh Acheh (Malay Mosque) it was founded by Tengku Syed Hussain Al-Aidid, an Achehnese Royal of northern Sumatra in 1808. Read here for a little insight on why Francis Light invited Syed Hussain to settle in George Town.

“Being one of the oldest mosques in Penang to survive largely in its original form, the Mosque is historically important as it is the focal point for the spread of Islam in Penang Island. It was also a hub of various activities for pilgrim brokers, ticketing agencies, bazaar traders, hotel, shops and printing presses” (Dr A Ghafar Ahmad, 1996)

This week, we also showcase as a feature piece, an informative article by theSun on the inter-cultural and inter-racial dynamics that had once thrived in Lebuh Acheh. Read here

Architecture

The mosque was built complete with an octagonal minaret, an ablution area, a pool, a verandah and a cemetery including the mausoleum of Syed Hussain and his family. View slideshow below for photographs.

Architecturally, the mosque is essentially hybrids; with a taste of the Moorish influence, oriental forms and Neo-Classical features. The styles can be seen from its arches, windows, columns, hipped roof and other elements on the minaret. It is a good example of masonry building that is rich in architectural details and vocabulary as well as the adaptation of building elements to suit the local climate. Read here for complete details on the architecture of the mosque.

The mosque as well as the surrounding properties are now endowed for religious and cultural purposes, and it is administered by the Penang State Religious Council.

References