Design Framework for Ablution Spaces of Iconic Mosques in Malaysia

Abstract

Mosques are places where Muslims perform prayers and other social activities. Those are built as a place for humans to worship the Almighty Allah at all times, as well as to provide an environment that responds to the needs of devotees and educates the future generation by the Quranic verses and the Prophet's teachings. Derived from the Holy Quran and the Prophet, purity is compulsory at all times for Muslims, and has many meanings that are applicable during prayers and the day. The ablution room is integrated into all mosque designs because it is an unseparated element. However, Malaysian mosques have been questioned in their application of some Islamic regulations to uniform a hygienically clean space that can respond the needs of Muslims. The design of the ablution rooms in Malaysian mosques is encountering a serious issue regarding the spaces' cleanliness. Although the ablution room has been designed to respond the Muslim's need to conduct the ablution practice and to cleanse a person spiritually and physically, several problems related to its design aspects were revealed. This research investigates the cleanliness of the Malaysian ablution space. It examines how the design aspects of the ablution rooms of the Iconic Malaysian Mosques impact the area's cleanliness and its users. Five case studies were selected for this study. Three methods of study were utilized: physical observation, architectural drawing analysis, and interviews. Aspects of design form, ventilation, cleaning status, and user experience were discussed. This research suggested that the larger mosques in Malaysia were suffering from serious hygiene issues that resulted from many aspects, including poor design, ventilation systems, and users' abuse. The research suggested some design guidelines for future and existing ablution areas that will improve the cleanliness.

Tracing Persian Influences: Exploring the Meaning of Mosques and Mausoleums in South Sulawesi as Iconic Islamic Architecture

“…In line with the previous study, the research results strengthen the novelty of the topic of Iconic mosques. The Ministry of Tourism, Art, and Culture in Malaysia (MOTAC) classifies mosques as iconic buildings because mosques have high historical values and architectural styles that represent the aesthetics and modernity of the country [7]. As for the criteria for the Old Mosque of South Sulawesi, it has historical value, including Al-Hilal Katangka Gowa Old Mosque, Jami Tua Palopo Mosque, and Lamuru Bone Mosque [8].…”

An innovative sanitary fixture for performing ablution in public facilities

“…Facility management is also important to consider. A study by Utaberta and Shakir (2021) on mosques considered tourist attractions in Malaysia and found that some tourists lacked awareness of the function of the ablution space, mistaking it for a space to urinate. This highlights the need for clarifying signage and monitoring by facility management.…”

“…Some F 42,15/16 facilities resort to providing ablution areas at the basement level, which also raises the issue of hygiene because of the limited natural ventilation provided. Sunlight and natural airflow were also found essential to avoiding the spread of disease and fungus in the ablution rooms (Utaberta and Shakir, 2021). Wind directions need to be considered to prevent the transfer of humidity and humidity-related bad smells to the praying space.…”