The National Mosque is a symbol of Malaysia as an Islamic nation.

[Attraction] National Mosque [Address] Jalan Perdana, Kuala Lumpur (beside Lake Gardens) *The National Mosque was built in 1965 on the site of a church. It was originally intended to be named after Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia's first prime minister, but he declined the honor and suggested the name "National" to commemorate Malaysia's peaceful independence. It symbolized the aspirations of a newly independent nation and is now considered an important symbol of Malaysia's status as an Islamic country. *The National Mosque's design blends modern architectural elements with traditional Islamic art, calligraphy, and ornamentation. Its most striking features are the umbrella-shaped ribbed roof and 18 points, symbolizing Malaysia's 13 states and the five pillars of Islam. The mosque's 73m-high minaret is a prominent feature of the Kuala Lumpur skyline. *Unlike the typical "onion-shaped" domes of most mosques, the National Mosque has a unique star-shaped roof, which also highlights its Islamic character. While not as opulent as the Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque in Brunei, it possesses a light and elegant style. The forest-like colonnade outside the prayer hall creates a sense of modernity and spaciousness, adding an air of solemnity and mystery—reminiscent of Hogwarts from Harry Potter. Walking through these columns in a robe does evoke a sense of wizardry, especially when a group of girls passes by, their robes flowing in the wind, creating an ethereal image. (The requirement to wear robes and headscarves in the mosque applies only to female visitors.) *The interior of the main hall echoes the simple yet dignified design of the exterior. A golden crystal chandelier hangs from the ceiling, illuminating the colorful glass below, making the hall, which can accommodate 8,000 people, appear even more spacious and bright. Between the main minaret and the prayer hall, there are elegant fountains, galleries, and a library. Behind the mosque, a covered walkway leads to a mausoleum, which has its own shaded dome. This small mausoleum is reserved for "national heroes" who have made significant contributions to Islam, specifically those who have served as prime minister or died while serving as deputy prime minister. *The elegant surroundings and unique design make the National Mosque not only an important place of worship and pilgrimage for devout Muslims but also a famous landmark in Kuala Lumpur.