Melaka Straits Mosque

Masjid Selat Melaka

A white mosque built on reclaimed land by the sea, which seems to float on the water at high tide. At sunset its golden dome and the glow over the Straits make it Melaka's most photogenic landmark.

Melaka Straits Mosque sits on Pulau Melaka, a reclaimed artificial island about 4 km south of Melaka city centre. It opened in 2006 under the officiating of a former Yang di-Pertuan Agong. The architecture blends Middle Eastern and Malay traditions, with white walls, a golden dome, stained-glass arched windows and a 30-metre minaret that doubles as a lighthouse. The main building stands on piles by the sea, and at high tide the water reaches the base of the mosque, so from a distance it appears to float on the Straits of Melaka, earning it the nickname 'Floating Mosque'. At sunset the building turns golden, and after dark the lights come on and reflect in the water, making it a favourite spot for photographers. Along the embankment beside the mosque you can watch cargo ships moving through the Straits. Entry is free, and non-Muslims are welcome outside prayer times. Robes and headscarves are provided at the entrance. Women must cover their hair and arms, and both men and women must wear long trousers below the knee. Getting there: a Grab from the Old Town takes about 15 minutes and costs RM 10–15. Public transport is inconvenient, so it is best to use a ride-hailing app both ways and book in advance. Waiting for a ride after sunset can take a while. Tips: arrive before 5:30 pm, tour the interior first, then walk to the embankment on the west side of the mosque to wait for sunset (around 7:00 pm). Leave after the lights come on. Allow 1 to 1.5 hours in total. Note: visits are suspended during prayer times, especially Friday midday. Keep quiet inside, avoid photographing worshippers during prayers, and bring water, as there are few food outlets nearby.

Melaka Straits Mosque

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