Kampong Glam, Singapore

Our hotel in Singapore was located in the Kampong Glam area. Named after the Gelam tree, it is the Muslim district of Singapore. A melting pot of vibrant cultures where 19th century shop houses were turned into specialty stores selling spices, textiles and casual dining restaurants offering halal Malay cuisine. In 1989, Kampong Glam was declared a conservation area and historic part of town like Little India and Chinatown. 

The famous landmark in his area is the imposing golden dome Sultan Mosque. Located in Muscat Road, it is an active place of worship named after Sultan Hussain Shah, the first Sultan of Singapore. It was originally built in 1924, rebuilt in 1932 and declared a national monument in 1975. Its onion shaped dome is topped with a crescent moon and star finials. During the hop on hop off tour, the audio guide said that the bases are lined with glass bottle ends which were donated by Singaporean Muslims who wanted to contribute in the construction of the mosque. This is known as an act of sadaqah jariya - a good deed for which the doer will receive continuous bounties even after death.

This is the side entrance to the mosque but since we were not 
appropriately dressed and it was a Friday, we decided not to enter.

It should be mentioned that Singapore (much like the Philippines before we were conquered by the Spanish) was first ruled by Islamic empires. From the 15th to the 19th centuries, Singapore was under the Malacca sultanate and then the Johor sultanate. Since Singapore has three ethnic groups (the Chinese, the Malays and the Indians), you can see mosques in several parts of the town.

Masjid Malabar Mosque on Victoria Street

One to two blocks away from the Sultan Mosque is hotel V Lavender on Jellicoe Road where we stayed. Convenient location with a MRT station below, some restaurants, local shops and a grocery store within walking distance.