History of Islam: Malaysia

بِسْمِ ٱللَّٰهِ ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ

Malaysia is a treasure trove of Islamic heritage, culture, and spirituality. As a Muslim traveler, exploring the history of Islam in Malaysia is not only enriching but also deeply moving. From the arrival of Islam through early trade routes to its profound influence on modern-day Malaysian society, this Southeast Asian nation stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith, cultural exchange, and community.

In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the history of Islam in Malaysia, explore the oldest and most significant mosques, highlight the contributions of Muslim communities from around the world, and give you insight into the country’s current Islamic landscape. Whether you're a history lover, a spiritual traveler, or simply curious about Islam's roots in Malaysia, this guide will help you see this beautiful nation through a new lens.

The Arrival of Islam in Malaysia: A Historical Overview

Islam first arrived on the shores of what is now Malaysia as early as the 12th century. Rather than being introduced through conquest, Islam entered peacefully via Muslim traders from Arabia, India, and Persia who traveled along the maritime Silk Road. These traders settled in port cities and intermarried with local communities, spreading Islamic teachings and values through da’wah and personal example.

By the 14th century, Islam began gaining a strong foothold, particularly in the Malay Peninsula. One of the earliest and most notable Islamic kingdoms in the region was the Malacca Sultanate (1400–1511), which played a vital role in promoting Islam not just in Malaysia but across Southeast Asia.

The Malacca Sultanate: A Golden Era of Islamic Expansion

Founded by Parameswara, a Hindu prince who later converted to Islam and took the name Sultan Iskandar Shah, the Malacca Sultanate marked a turning point in the Islamization of the region. As Malacca grew into a bustling international port, it attracted Muslim scholars, traders, and missionaries from the Middle East, India, and China.

Under Malacca’s rule, Islamic law (Shariah) began to be incorporated into governance. Islamic education was promoted, with madrasahs and local schools established. The Malay language was enriched with Arabic and Persian vocabulary. Over the next few decades, Islamic art, literature, and architecture flourished.

The fall of Malacca to the Portuguese in 1511 did not hinder the spread of Islam. Instead, it led to the rise of other Islamic sultanates like Johor, Perak, and Pahang, ensuring the continued influence of Islam across the region.

Oldest and Most Historic Mosques in Malaysia

As you explore Malaysia, you'll find mosques that are not only places of worship but also living monuments to Islamic history. Here are some of the oldest and most iconic:

Kampung Laut Mosque (Masjid Kampung Laut), Kelantan

Built in18th century, Masjid Kampung Laut is considered the oldest mosque in Malaysia. The architecture is traditional Malay with no nails used in construction. It is generally believed to be built by missionaries from the Walisongo of Java.

Masjid Tengkera, Malacca

Built in 1728, Masjid Tengkera is one of the earliest mosques in Malacca, reflecting Chinese, Malay, and Sumatran influences. The tomb of Sultan Hussein of Johor lies here, who played a key role during British colonization.

Masjid Kampung Hulu, Malacca

Built in 1728 (restored in 1892), Masjid Kampung Hulu is a beautiful blend of Javanese and Sumatran architecture. The Mosque is walking distance from the famous Jonker Street in Malacca.

Masjid Zahir, Alor Setar, Kedah

Built in 1912, Masjid Zahir was inspired by Moghul architecture, it’s among the most beautiful mosques in the world. This location hosts the annual Qur’an Recitation Competition (Majlis Tilawah Al-Qur'an).

Global Contributions to Malaysian Islam

The Islamization of Malaysia is a result of rich intercultural interactions over centuries. Here’s how Muslims from around the world contributed:

Arab Traders (7th - 10th Century)

Islam is believed to have first reached Malaysia through Arab traders, particularly from the Hadhramaut region of Yemen, who began traveling along maritime trade routes. While the exact dates are not entirely clear, the first encounters likely occurred as early as the 7th century—during the lifetime of our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him)—or in the 8th to 10th centuries, as trade in the region grew.

Indian Traders (12th - 14th Century)

Muslim merchants from India (specifically Gujarat and Tamil Nadu) started arriving in Malaysia in significant numbers around the 12th century. Their influence, particularly in spreading Islam via trade and Sufism, became more prominent by the 14th century. The famous Sultanate of Malacca (1400-1511) had considerable ties with the Indian subcontinent, especially with the Chola Dynasty of Tamil Nadu.

Sufi Missionaries (13th - 15th Century)

During the 13th to 15th centuries, the role of Sufi missionaries became increasingly important in spreading Islam to the Malay Peninsula, particularly through regions like Sumatra (Indonesia). These missionaries introduced the spiritual teachings of Islam, which greatly impacted local populations and facilitated their conversion.

Chinese Muslims (15th Century)

The presence of Chinese Muslims in Malaysia is most prominent during the 15th century. One notable figure is Hang Li Po, a Chinese princess who married Sultan Mansur Shah of Malacca. This marriage is symbolic of the growing connection between Malacca and Chinese Muslim communities, which continued to thrive, especially in trading ports.

Indonesian Muslims (16th Century)

By the 16th century, Indonesian Muslims, particularly from Sumatra and Java, had begun to play a significant role in spreading Islam in Malaysia, particularly after the fall of Malacca in 1511. The spread of Islam through the Indonesian archipelago was integral to the Islamization of the Malay Peninsula.

Islam in Modern-Day Malaysia: Demographics & Influence

Today, Islam is the official religion of Malaysia, and it plays a vital role in everyday life, governance, education, and culture.

Key Statistics:

Population: Over 33 million (as of 2025)

Muslim population: Around 63%, primarily ethnic Malays.

Number of mosques: Over 7,000 mosques and surau (small prayer halls) across the country.

Major Islamic institutions:

JAKIM (Department of Islamic Development Malaysia and Halal Authority)

International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)

Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation (YaPEIM)

Islam in Daily Life:

Adhan (call to prayer) can be heard throughout towns and cities.

Friday prayers (Jumu'ah) are a cornerstone of communal life.

Ramadan is celebrated nationwide with night markets, communal iftars, and mosque activities.

Islamic institutions and halal certification are among the most advanced globally.

Why Muslim Travelers Will Love Exploring Islamic Malaysia

For Muslim travelers, Malaysia is a dream destination. It seamlessly blends historical reverence with modern convenience.

Highlights for Muslim Travelers:

Halal food everywhere – from street food to luxury dining, mostly certified by JAKIM.

Prayer facilities in airports, malls, and on highways.

Rich Islamic history accessible through museum exhibits, guided mosque tours, and local guides.

Cultural diversity that still honors Islamic values.

Islamic Heritage Sites in Malaysia

To deepen your journey through Islamic Malaysia, consider visiting these spiritually and historically significant places:

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (IAMM), Kuala Lumpur

Southeast Asia’s largest Islamic arts museum. Features Qur'anic manuscripts, calligraphy, and Islamic architecture models

Putra Mosque, Putrajaya

A modern marvel by the lake known for its pink granite façade and stunning dome. The area is stunning and also features the Iron Mosque across the lake.

National Mosque of Malaysia (Masjid Negara), Kuala Lumpur

Built in 1965, symbolizing Malaysia’s independence, this mosque can accommodate 15,000 worshippers and has an entire dawah department for learning and teaching of Islamic principles and beliefs to everyone.

Final Thoughts: A Living Legacy of Faith

The history of Islam in Malaysia is not just about the past—it’s a living legacy that continues to shape the nation's identity today. As a Muslim traveler, especially with children, walking through Malaysia’s mosques, listening to the adhan echo across lush landscapes, and connecting with its diverse Muslim communities is an experience like no other.

Malaysia offers not just comfort and hospitality, but a deep sense of spiritual connection and historical appreciation. Whether you're praying in a centuries-old mosque or learning about the sultanates that brought Islam to this land, you'll walk away with a richer understanding of how Islam continues to thrive in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant countries.

Learn more about Malaysia here

Nomad Links

Flights: Google Flights

Stays: Trip.com

VPN Routers: GL.iNet GL-MT6000 - GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 - Tenda AX3000 WiFi Router

VPN Services: SurfShark, NordVPN

Temu: Temu App Download

Esim: AloSIM

Airport Transfers: Trip.com

Car Rental: Qeeq.com

Full Product Recommendation Page

Please see our list of blogs to learn more, and you can contact us directly at muslimfamilynomad@gmail.com for any questions and even set up a consultation.

** Disclaimer: We are compensated for some of the links provided in this article if you purchase something, but we only recommend what we have used and found successful or we have done some research to find. This blog should not be used as financial advice and we are not travel agents, we are just letting you know our opinions from real life experience. May Allah bless you and your family on your travels!