Can non-Muslims enter mosques in Malaysia?

Yes, at many major mosques, usually outside prayer times and with modest dress. Some smaller or state mosques may restrict entry, so check the signs or ask the staff first.

Do I need to cover my hair if I am not Muslim?

Women visitors are normally asked to cover their hair, arms and legs inside the mosque. Most major mosques lend a free robe and scarf at the entrance.

Can I wear shorts to a mosque in Malaysia?

No. Both men and women need clothing that covers the knees and shoulders. Long trousers or a long skirt are best, and robes are often available to borrow.

Visiting a Mosque in Malaysia: Etiquette for Women and Men

Mosques in Malaysia are welcoming places, and many major ones greet visitors of all faiths outside prayer times. A little preparation shows respect and makes the visit comfortable. Rules can differ from one mosque to another, so follow the signs and the staff.

Before you go

Check the time: Many mosques welcome visitors outside prayer times. Avoid the five prayer times and Friday midday (Jumaat prayer), when the mosque is full. The prayer times in this portal help you plan.
Opening hours differ: Tourist hours vary by mosque, and some are closed to visitors during events. Check before you go.
Entry is usually free: Donation boxes are welcome but not required.
Ask first if unsure: Staff or volunteers at the entrance will tell you which areas are open to visitors.

What men should wear

Long trousers that cover the knees. Shorts are not allowed.
A shirt that covers the shoulders. Short sleeves are fine, sleeveless tops are not.
Avoid tight, transparent or loudly printed clothes.
Many Malay men wear baju Melayu, a songkok (cap) or a sarong at the mosque. This is common but not required for visitors.
Major mosques lend robes at the entrance if your clothes do not meet the rules.

What women should wear

Cover your hair with a scarf, and cover your arms to the wrists and your legs to the ankles.
Choose loose, opaque clothes that do not show the shape of your body.
Major mosques, such as the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur, lend a robe and scarf for free if you are not dressed appropriately.
Bring your own light scarf and a long skirt or loose trousers so you are always ready.

At the entrance

Take your shoes off: Leave them on the racks by the door. Keep valuables with you and wear socks if you prefer.
Enter calmly: Muslims enter with the right foot and may greet with "Assalamualaikum". Visitors are not expected to do this.
Men and women use different areas: Follow the signs to the women's entrance or prayer area, which is often upstairs or at the back.
Wudhu is for those who pray: Visitors who are not praying do not need to wash, but do not use the ablution area as a toilet or wash-basin.

Behaviour inside

Speak softly, silence your phone and do not run or play.
Do not walk in front of someone who is praying, and keep a gap behind them.
Sit with your feet tucked in rather than stretched towards the qibla (the direction of Mecca) or towards a Quran.
No eating, drinking, smoking or loud conversation.
Do not touch Qurans or religious items unless you are invited to.
Avoid public displays of affection and keep your hands to yourself.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially anyone praying, and never photograph women without their permission.

For Muslim visitors who want to pray

Make wudhu in the ablution area and enter with the right foot.
Pray in the correct area: men in the main hall, women in the women's section or behind the men.
Face the qibla and join the row when the congregation is praying. Late arrivals complete the missed rakaat after the imam finishes.
Friday midday brings a large crowd and a sermon (khutbah). Arrive early to find a place.
If you only need to pray alone, a surau (small prayer room) in malls, stations and rest stops is usually quieter. Look for "Wanita" for the women's side.