A Visit to Masjid Cina Muslim Klang: Tranquility Meets Tradition

We were genuinely excited to finally visit Masjid Jamek Cina Muslim Klang in Bandar Botanik -- and once we arrived, we were simply blown away. The mosque’s magnificence, paired with its sense of calm and serenity, made it one of the most unique and beautiful places of worship we’ve seen in Selangor.

What immediately caught our eye was the architecture -- the sweeping tiled roofs, curved eaves, and pagoda-style tower. Modelled after the famous Great Mosque of Xi’an in China, this mosque is a stunning blend of Islamic and Chinese design elements. Unlike most Malaysian mosques, there’s no large dome; instead, the focus is on elegant simplicity and open spaces that invite peace and reflection.

Built on nearly 3 acres, Masjid Cina Muslim Klang can accommodate around a thousand worshippers. The complex includes prayer halls, classrooms, a library, cultural centre, café, and even staff quarters. Every detail -- from the lotus motifs to the carved wooden beams and calligraphy in Chinese-style strokes -- feels thoughtfully crafted to symbolize harmony between faith and culture.

The masjid’s story began in 2017 through collaboration between JAIS, MACMA, and state authorities. It received royal approval from Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah in 2019, with construction completed in mid-2024. It officially opened for prayers in August 2024 --- a proud new landmark for Klang and a symbol of Malaysia’s cultural diversity.

Standing in the courtyard, surrounded by stillness and soft sunlight, it was easy to feel at peace. The atmosphere here isn’t just spiritual -- it’s deeply grounding. Visiting Masjid Cina Muslim Klang reminded us how faith can transcend design and language, yet still feel beautifully familiar.

Food, Glorious Food!: The Shack @ DeRimba, Hulu Langat

Some 35 minutes after leaving home that weekend, we found ourselves in Hulu Langat -- a charmingly rustic town that still carries that ol skool “kampung meets mountain air” vibe. Our destination? A makan spot tucked inside a durian dusun called The Shack @ DeRimba.

We couldn’t resist pulling over by the river for a few quick shots -- the kind of simple, quiet scenery that makes you forget the city is just half an hour away.

By the time we reached The Shack, a small crowd was already enjoying their brunch. The place is popular for good reason -- reviewers often mention its serene setting among durian trees, lush greenery, and laid-back weekend mood. It’s open only on weekends, serving local breakfast favourites along with some Western bites like croissants and scones.

We went for the lontong, nasi lemak with ayam berempah, and a few kuih. The lontong was tasty, the nasi lemak decent — the chicken juicy enough, though the sambal could’ve used a bit more kick. Still, sipping teh tarik under the trees, surrounded by nature, made it all worthwhile.

Would we come back?

Most probably yes -- if not to The Shack, then to explore a few other riverside cafes around Hulu Langat next time. Insya-Allah.

My Late Father And His Magic Hands

I recently ordered a second-hand book online and was pleasantly surprised when it arrived -- neatly wrapped in plastic, as if someone had taken the time to care for it.

That simple touch immediately reminded me of my late father. He wasn’t highly educated, but he had magic in his hands. For a time, he worked at the state library in Johor Bahru, where he learned the art of book binding and wrapping like no other. Because of that, all my school books -- even though they were buku pinjaman -- were always perfectly covered in plastic. Needless to say, I became the envy of many classmates.

My late father wasn’t alone in his creative streak. There was a period when he and my late mother were both into macramé, and together they created the most wonderful pieces. They were always busy with projects -- knotting, weaving, perfecting. And I remember so clearly: whenever someone came by and admired one of their creations, they would simply smile and gift it away without hesitation.

Here’s a picture I’ve shared before -- you can spot one of their macramé pieces in it.

Sometimes I wonder what kind of projects my parents would be working on for my own home if they were still around today. I’m sure they’d still be creating -- with love, as always. 😔

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Under The Scorching Sun At Kota & Muzium Lukut

 

Visited Kota & Muzium Lukut this past weekend near PD. It showcases the glory days of Lukut in the 19th century under Raja Jumaat’s rule, featuring exhibits of artifacts, old weapons, and stories of tin mining, trade, and conflicts that once shaped the region.

Once a part of Selangor, Captain McPherson wrote in a report: "Lukut is far better than Selangor, in fact, it can be likened to a European district. It seems strange that such a situation can be found in the middle of the forest."

So the next time you're in PD, make sure you swing by this place to learn and absorb another important piece of the country's history!

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UIA Matricution Centre, Subang Jaya: A Forgotten History

This Inti Campus in SS15 Subang was where the UIA Matric Centre used to be in the 80s. So it was rather surreal when I visited it some years ago. I still remember my taaruf week here (in 1989) and the culture shock I experienced going to qiamulail and listening to the rules and regulations (no dating, no shorts and NO going to the Subang Cinema which was right across the road). We stayed at the shophouses which were also across the road. But that lasted only one semester for me.

At the end of the other block was the hostel for PPP students, and it so happened that I had school friends who were there. So I squatted in their room instead. And oh man, those guys were, um, shall I say, so nakal? You know who you are, dudes! 

But living in Subang was pretty cool. You had to take the Sri Jaya bus to get to KL. But most of the time we lepaked at the stalls near the pasar or Subang Parade. Ah, the good ol days... (The Matric Centre was then moved to Lembah Pantai in 1990.)

Anyway, I titled this post “A Forgotten History” because when I shared this piece of anecdote on Threads, a few UIA alumni replied saying they never even knew the uni once had a campus here. Like, seriously lah? 

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