Tanjong Bungah Floating Mosque named Penang’s Tourism Mosque
Masjid Terapung Tanjong Bungah has been officially renamed Masjid Syed Sheikh Al-Hadi and designated as Penang’s Tourism Mosque, marking a new chapter in its role as a centre for worship, education, community engagement and Islamic tourism.
The declaration was officiated by Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib during a ceremony held at the mosque.
Penang Deputy Chief Minister I, Dr. Mohamad Abdul Hamid, said the renaming goes beyond a change of identity, serving as a tribute to the legacy of Islamic reformist Syed Sheikh Ahmad Al-Hadi, who played a significant role in advancing education, publishing and modern Islamic thought in Penang during the early 20th century.
He said the mosque would continue to function as a place of worship while also serving as a hub for knowledge sharing, community dialogue and Islamic tourism that reflects the values and heritage of Islam in the state.
According to Mohamad, the decision to designate the mosque as Penang’s Tourism Mosque follows the restructuring of the roles of two major mosques in the Northeast District, a move endorsed by the Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP). Its prominent beachfront location in Tanjong Bungah and status as one of Penang’s well-known landmarks make it well suited to welcome both local and international visitors throughout the year.
He added that Syed Sheikh Al-Hadi’s intellectual legacy presents an opportunity to develop a new form of intellectual heritage tourism, complementing George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage status by highlighting Penang’s contribution to the Malay-Islamic reform movement rather than focusing solely on architecture and food.
As part of the initiative, a dedicated gallery showcasing Syed Sheikh Al-Hadi’s life, ideas and contributions will be established within the mosque grounds. Mohamad said the project aligns with the Penang Islamic Religious Development Agenda (APAI) 2030, which seeks to strengthen the role of mosques as centres for worship, education, welfare, dakwah and Islamic tourism.
(Image source: Buletin Mutiara)
