Masjid Bencoolen in Singapore celebrated its 200th anniversary, marking two centuries of faith, heritage, and service to the Muslim community. The occasion honored the contributions of generations who helped preserve the mosque and its legacy. A commemorative book documenting its history since 1825 was also launched.

In a statement published on its official website on October 18, 2026, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) said the mosque had served as a place of worship, community interaction, and belonging for generations of Muslims.

Among those present to celebrate the occasion were Zaqy Mohamad, the Acting Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs and Senior Minister of State for Defence;

Mohammad Sa’at Abdul Rahman, the MUIS President, besides other leaders, volunteers, donors, and community members.

Historical roots

According to MUIS, Masjid Bencoolen has its roots in Singapore’s early Indian Muslim community. It was established in 1825 by Indian Muslim traders, workers, and settlers as a place of worship and a center for community life.

Over the past two centuries, the mosque has witnessed Singapore’s transformation while continuing to serve generations of worshippers and their families. Its role has extended beyond religious services to include Islamic education, community activities, and outreach programs that strengthen relations between the mosque and the surrounding community.

The legacy

The statement highlighted the contributions of Mr. Mohamed Abdul Jaleel, who arrived in Singapore from Chennai, India, as a young child and found a sense of belonging and community at Masjid Bencoolen.

He later gave back to the institution that had welcomed him by serving as Honorary Chairman of the mosque’s management board. He continues to contribute to its administration as Vice-Chairman.

According to MUIS, his journey reflects the spirit of service, responsibility, and commitment to preserving community institutions—values that have helped the mosque remain active across generations.

Speaking at the celebration, Zaqy Mohamad emphasized the Islamic concept of amanah, which refers to trust, care, and responsibility. He described it as one of the fundamental values that have shaped Masjid Bencoolen’s history.

He explained that the mosque’s legacy should not be viewed simply as something inherited from the past, but as a living responsibility that every generation must accept, protect, and pass on to the next.

He encouraged the mosque and its community to continue supporting young people, strengthening relations among different sections of society, and ensuring that the mosque remains a welcoming institution for the next 200 years and beyond.

Book released

As part of the bicentennial celebration, a commemorative book titled Masjid Bencoolen: 200 Years – Celebrating Two Centuries of Faith and Service Since 1825 was launched to document the mosque’s history and development.

Youth programs

The mosque plans to strengthen its engagement with young people through new programs, including leadership development retreats for young volunteers interested in taking on leadership responsibilities.

It also intends to organize community activities to support less fortunate families, encouraging a spirit of generosity, care, and mutual support.