Thousands of Muslims Flock to Mosques Nationwide for First Night of Tarawih Prayers

KUALA LUMPUR: The arrival of Ramadan was welcomed with gratitude and devotion across Malaysia as thousands of Muslims gathered at mosques and surau nationwide to perform the first night of tarawih prayers.

From early evening, worshippers of all ages, including children and families, filled prayer halls, reflecting the strong spirit of the Muslim community in observing the holy month of fasting. Several mosques recorded exceptional attendance, marking a vibrant start to Ramadan.

In the capital, Masjid Negara saw its main prayer hall, capable of accommodating up to 15,000 worshippers, filled with locals and foreign Muslims eager to observe the first night of the blessed month.

In Selangor, despite rainy weather, worshippers arrived early at the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque in Shah Alam. Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari also extended Ramadan greetings, expressing hope that the holy month would strengthen faith, increase good deeds, and purify intentions. He prayed for good health, blessed sustenance, and peace for all families.

In Kelantan, Malaysians returning home for the Chinese New Year holidays took the opportunity to perform tarawih prayers with their families. Muhammad Nur Yazdani Rosli, 28, said he returned to Kuala Krai to celebrate Ramadan with his family after missing the occasion last year due to work commitments.

In Johor, about 1,500 worshippers attended tarawih prayers at Masjid Sultan Ismail in Batu Pahat, while in Kedah, around 300 congregants filled Masjid Zahid in Alor Setar, with some spending time reciting the Quran before prayers. The tarawih prayers there were led by a visually impaired imam whose melodious Quranic recitation enhanced the spiritual atmosphere.

In Sabah, more than 2,000 worshippers attended tarawih prayers at Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu, led by Chief Imam Ustaz Mohd Zamzuhardi Zaakariw Al-Hafiz.

The strong turnout across the country reflects the unity and collective spirit of Muslims in welcoming Ramadan, a month dedicated to worship, spiritual discipline, and strengthening community bonds.