Masjid Muhammadiah, better known as the Chinese Mosque, hosted its Open Day on Sunday, 28 September.
It was a vibrant demonstration of Malaysia’s Muhibbah Madani spirit, bringing together culture, faith, art, athletics and friendship under one roof.
Mosque as a Symbol and Stage
Masjid Muhammadiah, built in 2013 at a cost of around RM4 million, is more than an architectural landmark.
Its Chinese‑style design, and history of hosting Chinese New Year celebrations and drum performances, position it as a living symbol of multicultural harmony.
Sunday’s event emphasised this symbolic role from the ornate structure to the warm inclusivity of its atmosphere.
Drums, Discipline & Cultural Pride
The Ipoh Drum Academy took center stage with a powerful performance featuring the iconic 24 Festive Drums alongside the Double Blades Kungfu weapons form, both steeped in Chinese heritage.
Established in 2018, the academy focuses on developing percussion talents while honoring Malaysia’s diverse cultural landscape.
Coach Cayson Chong, founder of Ipoh Drum Academy said their goal is to build harmony and mutual respect by offering opportunities where people from all walks of life and all age groups can come together to learn.
Holistic Training Beyond Performance
Their weekly sessions go beyond musical instruction.
Training incorporates athletic and wellness practices, such as Taijiquan (Tai Chi) and kungfu techniques, to improve posture, stamina and focus.
Caption: Ipoh Drum Academy’s rigorous weekly training integrates athletic wellness, musicality, and life skills development.
Coach Lok, Drumming Instructor in Ipoh Drum Academy shares that they teach using both traditional and progressive techniques, to suit different ages and purposes, and to build resilience and confidence.
Coach Roz Hussin, KungFu Instructor at Ipoh Drum Academy said that through the combined curriculum of drumming and kungfu, students not only develop cultural arts knowledge but also gain valuable life skills, the ability to manage teams, display self-leadership, and exercise responsible autonomy.
A Morning of Wholesome Togetherness
The highlight was a dynamic performance featuring drummers and martial artists spanning a wide age range, from 10 to 57 years old.
The audience was captivated, with some invited on stage for a spontaneous moment of community drumming.
Visitors also took the opportunity to tour the mosque and connect with the performers, fostering a sense of community beyond the stage.
Caption: A captivating martial arts and drumming performance, including audience participation, energized the crowd during the Chinese Mosque Open Day.
Looking Forward
The Open Day achieved what many aim for but few fully realise: it wasn’t merely a performance, but a bridge that showed how one can embrace faith without losing cultural identity; how drums, martial arts, and social rituals can serve as tools for dialogue; and how multigenerational participation fosters continuity.
In an era where divisions too easily form, the Chinese Mosque and Ipoh Drum Academy have set an exemplary tone not just for Ipoh, but for a Malaysia aspiring toward its Madani ideal.
