A Reverent Journey: Masjid Omar Kampong Melaka

Masjid Omar Kampong Melaka is Singapore’s oldest mosque. Founded in 1820 by Arab philanthropist Syed Omar bin Ali Aljunied, it is a source of inspiration for Muslims and Singaporeans alike. In A Reverent Journey, the book traces Syed Omar’s travels from Yemen to Palembang and finally to Singapore. It details the establishment of a surau in an early Malay settlement on the southern bank of the Singapore River, known as Kampong Melaka. The book shares stories from the community of Muslims, the founder’s family, Singapore’s leaders, town planners, and heritage enthusiasts. It also features the efforts of the current generation of guardians and keepers of the trust to ensure the first wakaf house of prayer continues to fulfill the noble intentions of its founder.