Masjid Ar-Raudhah Batu 7 Lekir, A Symbol of Pride and Unity for the Ummah
Masjid Ar-Raudhah Batu 7 Lekir, A Symbol of Pride and Unity for the Ummah
On March 13, 2025, corresponding to 12 Ramadan 1446 Hijrah, a historic event took place in Lekir, Sitiawan, Perak. The inauguration ceremony of Masjid Ar-Raudhah Batu 7 Lekir was held with great joy and solemnity. This magnificent event was officiated by His Royal Highness the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Azlan Muhibuddin Shah Al-Maghfur-Lah.
His Royal Highness the Sultan was accompanied by His Highness (YTM) Raja Kechil Sulung Perak, Raja Ahmad Nazim Shah Ibni Almarhum Raja Ashman Shah, further adding to the prestige and significance of the occasion.
The arrival of the Sultan and the Raja Kechil Sulung was greeted with full traditional protocol by the Honorable Dato’ Toh Setia Bijaya, who also serves as the Orang Besar Jajahan of Manjung. This warm welcome reflects the respect and affection the people hold for the institution of the monarchy, which serves as the pillar of stability and harmony in the state of Perak.
As a symbolic gesture of the inauguration, HRH Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah planted a Bunga Tanjung tree on the mosque grounds. This tree was chosen not only for the beauty of its fragrant flowers but also for its symbolic value, representing resilience, beauty, and well-being.
The tree planting was accompanied by the presentation of an inauguration plaque, marking the official opening of Masjid Ar-Raudhah as a center for worship and community activities for the local residents.
Masjid Ar-Raudhah: A Center for Worship and Welfare
Masjid Ar-Raudhah is not merely a place of worship; it is also envisioned to be a hub for religious, social, and welfare activities for the local community. With a design inspired by both modern and traditional Islamic architecture, the mosque can accommodate over 1,000 congregants at one time.
In addition to a spacious prayer hall, the mosque is equipped with facilities such as a library, a multipurpose hall, and learning spaces for children and teenagers.
The construction of this mosque is the result of close cooperation between the state government, local authorities, and local residents. It reflects the spirit of 'gotong-royong' (mutual cooperation) and unity that forms the core strength of the Muslim community. The mosque is expected to become a landmark of harmony and an effective center for the propagation of Da'wah in the Manjung district.
The mosque, which began construction on a 2.42-hectare site in January 2012, was fully completed in early 2015. The original construction cost reached RM3 million, with RM1.7 million provided by government allocation and the remainder from public donations. In 2017, a cross-hall (balai lintang) was built at a cost of RM600,000, known as Dewan Ar-Raudhah.
Iftar and Congregational Prayers
Following the inauguration ceremony, HRH Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah and the royal entourage joined the local residents of Lekir for an Iftar (breaking of fast). The presence of the Sultan and the Raja Kechil Sulung at this Iftar not only delighted the people but also demonstrated the Sultan's concern and closeness to his subjects.
The Iftar was held in a lively atmosphere, featuring delicious and nutritious traditional dishes.
After breaking their fast, the Sultan and the attendees performed the Maghrib, Isyak, and Tarawih prayers in congregation. The Tarawih prayers, led by a renowned Imam from Perak, added to the solemnity and blessings of the occasion. The large turnout of congregants, including children, teenagers, and the elderly, reflected the high level of religious spirit among the local community.
The Role of the Mosque in Strengthening the Unity of the Ummah
Masjid Ar-Raudhah is expected to play a vital role in strengthening the unity of the Ummah. Beyond being a place of worship, the mosque serves as a center for community activities such as religious classes, lectures, and welfare programs. With its complete facilities, the mosque is able to attract various segments of society to come together to enliven the House of Allah.
Furthermore, the mosque is expected to serve as a platform to foster a spirit of tolerance and cooperation among different races. In the context of a multi-racial and multi-religious Malaysia, the mosque functions not only as a place of worship but also as a center for dialogue and social interaction that can strengthen community ties.
The inauguration of Masjid Ar-Raudhah Batu 7 Lekir on March 13, 2025, was more than just a formal event; it was a symbol of pride and unity for the Ummah. The presence of HRH Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah and the Raja Kechil Sulung of Perak added to the prestige and blessings of the ceremony.
The mosque is expected to become a center for religious and social activities that will enrich the lives of the local community.
With its complete facilities and strategic location, Masjid Ar-Raudhah is expected to become a focal point for Muslims in the Manjung district. May this mosque continue to play an important role in spreading the message of Islam and fostering a spirit of unity among the community.
The blessings of Ramadan and the presence of the Sultan are expected to bring grace and well-being to all the residents of Lekir and the state of Perak in general.
