SINGAPORE - Worshippers at the Al-Istiqamah Mosque in Serangoon North can now enjoy newer and more elderly-friendly features after the completion of year-long upgrading works.

The $1.2 million upgrade was aimed at increasing accessibility of the mosque to cater to the needs of the elderly. These include adding a lift to the three-storey main building and upgrading ablution areas and toilets, like the addition of anti-slip tiles.

The reception office, administrative office and teacher's room were also upgraded with fresh fittings like new carpeting and furniture.

"With the new lift and upgraded ablution area, we can attract more of the elderly and continue to ensure that the mosque continues to be family-friendly," said Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, as he opened the upgraded mosque on Friday afternoon.

The upgrade was the first major renovation for the mosque first built in 1999. The works started in the third quarter last year under the second phase of the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore's (Muis) Mosque Upgrading Programme.