Unique surau a major tourist attraction in Terengganu
SETIU: “Langgar Rindu” is not only unique in its architecture and design, but is also built with special features to symbolise sincerity and dedication, says Abdul Karim Embong, who owns the building, which serves as a surau (small mosque) for the community in Kampung Rhu Tapai here.
The surau, located along Jalan Kuala Terengganu, Merang, is attracting local and foreign tourists, both Muslims and non-Muslims, since it went viral on social media.
It is built only using the tropical hardwood species known as “cengal” (Neobalanocarpus heimii) and “tembusu” (Fragraea fragrans), said Abdul Karim.
Among the foreign visitors who came to the mosque was a married couple from Japan.
“The couple said they have been all over the world and the surau is the most unique building they have seen.
“I also have a Muslim couple from Austria who came after watching the surau on Youtube,” he told Bernama.
He added most of the visitors thought the building was his home when they first saw it, and was shocked when told it is a prayer house for Muslims and a place for them to learn about Islam.
“They praised me for my effort and contributed financially to help me get the building completed,” he added.
He said the “surau” was now 70% ready and hoped to complete the remaining work as soon as possible, which included the dome and corridor.
Abdul Karim, who is a poet using the pseudonym “Arif Karimi”, said he started building the “surau”, with no building plan, in July last year as a symbol of his love for the Creator and appreciation for his parents, his wife and their six children. — Bernama