The Historical Tale of Kampung Batak Rabit Mosque
Located about seven kilometers from the town of Teluk Intan, Perak, the nearly two-century-old Batak Rabit Mosque is believed to hold its own unique historical value. Its strategic location along the Teluk Intan - Hutan Melintang road makes it easy for passersby to stop and perform their prayers. Upon entering the mosque grounds and walking past the parking area, one can see that the distance between the Perak River and the mosque is only about 30 meters.
On the riverbank, there is a docking area for small fishing boats, and visitors can relax in a pavilion built for congregants to enjoy the view of the Perak River, which holds many stories and historical significance. This mosque is said to have been built by Laksamana Tok Tambah, an aide to the 26th Sultan of Perak, Sultan Abdullah II, who was famous for his involvement in the assassination of J.W.W. Birch, the first British Resident of Perak, and the Perak War.
Originally, this mosque was built using high-quality timber. However, in 1885, Laksamana Tok Tambah rebuilt the mosque using bricks, and it remains standing to this day. Because of this, many believe it to be the oldest mosque in the state of Perak. Inside the mosque, one can see many neatly and sturdily built pillars, reflecting the brilliance of ancient architects in constructing concrete structures that have remained intact until today.
Interestingly, there is a minaret on the left side of the mosque with its own historical construction value. It features stairs and windows built inside, designed to make it easier for the mosque caretaker, known as the Tok Siak, to ascend the minaret. It is understood that the mosque's architecture blends Malay and European styles, while the building structure and roof clearly feature the 'tumpang' (tiered) roof style commonly found in mosques across the archipelago. Some historians agree that the design of the Batak Rabit Mosque originated from the Demak Mosque.
The mosque's minaret is considered unique because, in terms of structure and building materials, it bears no resemblance to the minarets of other old mosques in Perak, which mostly used timber and featured square shapes, such as the Kampung Pulau Besar Mosque and the Sayong Mosque.
Others argue that the Batak Rabit Mosque minaret is unlike the concrete minarets in Melaka, which resemble pagodas. It is believed that this mosque once served as a place for discussions and a stopover for Malay dignitaries and traders due to its location right on the riverbank.
The Kampung Batak Rabit Mosque is one of the heritage sites marked with a historical signpost through the Teluk Intan Heritage Trail project, conducted by the Perak Community History Lovers Association (SEMARAK) and funded by the CIMB Foundation. If you visit Teluk Intan, do not forget to explore the heritage sites available here.
