Heritage Type
Historic building.
Description
Masjid Raja, a historic mosque in Perak, was built in 1541 by Tun Saban and Tun Puteh under the orders of Sultan Muzaffar Shah I. It is the second oldest mosque in Perak after Pachat Manong Mosque in Kuala Kangsar (1512). The mosque features four central pillars made of golden cengal wood, a roof made of thatch leaves, and walls woven from kelarai leaves. It has undergone three renovations and was once a gathering place for residents from Kampung Beng, Kampung Bukit Sapi, Kampung Luat, and Kampung Labit for Friday prayers. Masjid Raja Mosque remains sturdy due to its foundation being built on Toba volcanic ash deposits, which have concrete-like properties.
Significant
Masjid Raja showcases Malay architectural techniques using natural materials like cengal wood and woven kelarai walls. It served as a religious and communal hub, shaping local traditions and identity, and its continuous use and preservation highlight its ongoing significance.
Other Heritage
The mosque's foundation is built on Toba volcanic ash deposits, showcasing the early use of natural geological materials and sustainable building practices, utilizing local biodiversity resources like cengal wood and thatch leaves.
