Alor Setar (Kedah) : Menara Jam Besar

 By Kuciensem

Built in 1912 during Sultan Abdul Hamid Halim Shah’s reign, this historic clock tower stands proudly across from the majestic Zahir Mosque—a testament to Kedah's cultural and religious heritage.

Height: Approximately 18 m tall, featuring large clock faces on all four sides 

Design: A graceful blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural elements—notice the onion-shaped dome with a crescent above, matched with ornate carvings and motifs below 

Function: The clock tower chimed at prayer times, then signaled the nobat drumming at the adjacent Nobat Tower, followed by the adhan from Zahir Mosque—classic town clock and ritual timepiece 

Menara Jam Besar is more than just a clock—it’s a storyteller, marking daily prayers and bridging architectural narratives, all while standing resilient for over 100 years. Perfect for heritage travel content with visual flair, historical context, and local life woven together.