Tower demolition gives way to upgrading of mosque

KUCHING: The 99-metre tower at the Sarawak State Mosque, also known as Masjid Jamek, is currently being demolished, with the project expected to be completed by early 2025.

Sarawak State Mosque Welfare Trust Board (LAKMNS) chief executive officer Datuk Abang Abdul Wahap Abang Julai said the demolition is about 20 per cent complete.

He assured that the surrounding area has been fenced off to ensure safety and smooth operations.

“The tower is in the process of being demolished, which is why the surrounding area has been fenced off because we do not want any untoward incidents to occur.

“The work will take about six to seven months, but according to the contractor, it can be completed earlier,” he said.

He said this during an exclusive interview with the New Sarawak Tribune and Suara Sarawak at the LAKMNS Gallery in Baitulmakmur II today (June 27).

Wahap noted that the demolition is the first step in upgrading the state mosque, as envisioned by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

The plan includes the construction of six new towers– four main towers and two smaller ones, inspired by the design of Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque in Turkiye and towers at al-Masjid al-Nabawi (Mosque of the Prophet) in Medina.  

He asserted that the mosque upgrade plan is still under discussion and awaiting approval from relevant authorities and agencies.

Once approved, tenders will be issued for the construction work, ensuring transparency and healthy competition.