Religion, Kuala Lumpur

In all hotel rooms in Malaysia, it is a requirement to have a directional sign for the kiblat (or qibla)... Qibla is an Arabic word for the direction that should be faced when a Muslim prays... The qibla is oriented towards the Kaaba in Mecca and while praying, Muslims will face the direction of Mecca...

The qibla directional sign in hotel rooms is for the convenience of Muslim guests who will then have no problems in performing their daily prayers... The qibla directional sign is normally located on the ceiling or in one of the drawers of the hotel room...

Colourful statues of various gods decorate the temple. We didn't go into this temple as there were many people in there praying and we didn't want to disturb them.

Batu Caves, about 13km North of the city centre

In the National Mosque you can find examples of fine Islamic artwork such as Calligraphy.
Calligraphy is fundamental element of Islamic art. Its used to decorate and relate the words of the Quran. Arabesque patterns are also used to decorate or boarded Calligraphies. Similar use of repeated mathematical patterns are found throughout the mosque in its architecture design, the use of glass and stone work. Islamic art and design creates the feeling of space with repeated patterns and layering of designs. The use of light too can be found here with its reflective pools of water, marble floors and the blue glass roof. Islamic artists have developed the art of geometric patterns to its highest form and did so because of the Islamic belief that use of figurative paintings and sculpture can lead to idolatry.

The Batu caves are in honour of the God Lord Murugan. His image can be found throughout the temple in many different forms. A common one is to depict him with 6 heads and twelve arms. Each head having its own meaning and purpose. At the base of the large statue you can find vendors selling coconuts. Worshippers offer these to the gods by breaking them. The coconut is then eaten as it is believed it has special qualities and bring good health to the receiver.

There is beautiful Hindu temple near the market. It was Friday, so I luckily saw their religious service. A young person from Australia asked about the rite to one of temple members. But unfortunately he could not understand what he heard. The service itself was very simple.

The priest appeared with holy incense and holy water. He walked among believers. Then, believers caught smoke from incense and water by their hands and put it on their heads. They walked around the temple precincts all together. It finished before long.

MAJID JAME MOSQUE--In Western societies, the church or cathedral buildings often times represent some of our most beautiful architecture, In Malaysia, it is the mosque that usually represents the most beautiful architecture and this one is a perfect example!

Majority of the people here are Muslims and its common to find Halal food. (Halal foods are foods that are permitted for consumptions and productions by Muslims under the Islamic Law (Shari'ah) that do not consist of anything which deemed unlawful under the Law)
Women should dress modestly especially when visiting mosque.
Some Locals may eat with their hands especially in some road stalls. Food is eaten by using the right hand and not the left.

Don't be surprised if some men do not shake hands with women. They're not being rude but some Muslim men don't encourage any physical contact with women who are not their family or spouse.