The Malabar Muslims—originally from Kerala in India—settled down in Singapore in the early 19th century, and were mainly traders dealing in textiles and jewellery. In 1927, these immigrants formed an association—the Malabar Muslim Jama’ath—to look into the affairs of their growing community (Jama’ath means congregation in Arabic). The association was officially registered with Registration of Society on 19 April 1937, and it’s first office was located in a humble shop house on Changi Road. It later moved to Bussorah Street, and finally settled on Victoria Street.

Construction of Masjid Malabar

The Malabar Muslims realised the need for a mosque of their own, and the task of constructing one was taken up by their association. The site at the corner of Victoria Street and Jalan Sultan was selected. This site was situated next to an old Malabar Muslim cemetery, dating back to as far as 1819.

After finalising the construction plans, the foundation stone for the mosque was laid on 10 April 1956 in a ceremony officiated by the Mufti of Johor, Tuan Syed Alwi Adnan, who represented Sultan Ibrahim bin Abu Bakar of Johor. A fund-raising project was held to finance the construction, and received generous donations from the public, from Muslims and non-Muslims alike. On 24 January 1963, “Malabar Mosque” or Masjid Malabar was declared open by the Yang di- Pertuan Negara, Encik Yusof bin Ishak. The mosque has a separate two-storey minaret situated beside its gold ‘onion’ dome.The Malabar Muslim Jama-ath decided then to order uniquely designed gold and blue mosaic tiles to redecorate its entire exterior. In 1995, the interior of the mosque was also tiled. Malabar Mosque is entirely covered with the mosaic tiles today. In 2009, the mosque underwent renovations to maintain its unique architecture.

The current Malabar Muslim Committee was re-elected to lead the Jamaath for another two years at the 69th BGM on 18 April 2014. We thank all members who selected and supported us.

The new committee will comprise of the Executive Committee and Task Force heads.

The Executive Committee will provide strategic direction towards achieving the association’s long and short term goals. The Task Force heads will spearhead initiatives under their portfolio.

The task force will focus on the following for the 2018-2020 term;

1) Education (Religious & Secular)
2) Welfare
3) Youth, Sports & Volunteers
4) Technology and Social Media
5) Membership

With renewed vigour, we hope to bring you more exciting programmes in the months ahead.
Join us on our Facebook page and look out for programmes coming your way.

If you are keen to join the Malabar Muslim Jama-ath as a member OR volunteer, click on the “Sign up as a member” or “Be a Volunteer” link found on our home page. Terms and conditions will apply.