Floating Mosque worth RM12.95 million to transform Yan's tourism landscape

The newly constructed Floating Mosque of Yan, a RM12.95 million project, is poised to transform the tourism landscape of the Yan district and the wider Kedah state.

Set to officially open on July 17 in Kampung Ruat, the mosque, built over the sea, has already attracted visitors eager to admire its unique architecture and enjoy the views of the Strait of Malacca. With a capacity for 700 to 800 worshippers, it is anticipated to become a significant new tourist attraction.

Local entrepreneur Mohd. Salim Salleh, 54, expressed optimism that the mosque's presence will stimulate the local economy by creating more business opportunities. He believes this new draw can help revive Yan's tourism appeal, which was impacted by previous natural disasters.

Similarly, homestay operator Hamid Din, 48, has seen an increase in bookings as tourists choose to stay overnight to experience the sunset views and the mosque's beauty. For residents like Romli Ismail, 71, the mosque provides a convenient place for local prayers, eliminating the need to travel to more distant facilities.

Imam Zulhusni Abdul Latif confirmed that the mosque, whose construction began in 2017, is now fully realized and has begun hosting congregational prayers for about 400 families from five surrounding villages.