Tag Archives: architecture

The Kind Stranger

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I was exploring Burmah Road in Georgetown when I noticed a quaint little mosque. Outside it and behind a table was a man collecting tithes. Started a conversation with the man and found out that the mosque is over a 100 years old. Sensing my fascination with vintage architecture, he took me for a guided tour of the premise that he is rightly proud of.

As it turns out, this kind stranger is Haji Yasin and he is the Imam of Masjid Tengah. I found out later, from others, that he is also a beloved Indian-Muslim community leader. I am humbled by such friendliness and hospitality shown by a complete stranger. He even offered to take me to a nearby mamak shop so he could buy me a drink and chat, even though he is fasting. I told him his thought is already a big treat for me.

Olympus OM-D, ISO 500, f8, 1/30 sec.

The Kind Stranger

The New Crescent Moon

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The interior of the newer Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Mosque in Putrajaya is seldom seen by non-worshippers. Many tourists will usually call at the bigger and iconic Putra Mosque nearby. I like the architectural design of this mosque very much. It combines glass and metal for a beautiful, contemporary appearance.

Wandered into the edge of the main prayer hall in tourist mode today. Was so glad I had a ultra-wide angle lens (7mm) with me. I was fascinated by how the lightwell around the metallic dome formed a crescent when viewed from the angle I was photographing from.

Many Islamic countries and communities deploy the traditional method of sighting the new moon to determine the start of the holy month of Ramadan. It should begin tomorrow (9th July) or the day after. Apart from fasting during the day, Muslims consider this period a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement and increased devotion.

Good Wishes For A Blessed Ramadan to all Muslim followers.

Olympus OM-D, ISO 200, f5.6, 1/80 sec.

The New Crescent Moon - Masjid Tuanku Mizan, Putrajaya

One Moment In Time

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It took a six months wait for the sun and the Wilayah Mosque to align in a way I thought might be interesting. The resulting highlights and shadows on the archway can only happen in that one moment in time.

While the elevation and angle of the sun can be calculated in advance, the good weather and the two persons walking across were a factor of luck. This is the challenge and fun of photography.

See previous post on surveying the sun.

Olympus OM-D, ISO 200, f11, 1/320 sec.

One Moment In Time at Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan