TAIPING: The 145-year-old Taiping Clock Tower, also known as “The Fort”, is stepping into a new chapter with upgrading works turning it into a high-value tourism destination here, says state tourism, industry, investment and corridor development committee chairman Loh Sze Yee.
He said the upgrades mark an important step in strengthening Taiping’s position as a competitive tourism spot.
“Taiping has all the ingredients to emerge as a high-value tourism destination: rich history, beautiful natural surroundings and a calm, authentic atmosphere,” he said after launching the Taiping Clock Tower interior refurbishment project on Monday.
Built in 1881, the tower has worn many hats over the decades, serving first as a police station and later as a fire and rescue station.
Today, it serves as a visitor information centre, offering tourists a deeper, more meaningful way to experience Taiping.
Inside, the space has been refurbished, offering a 3D model of the town, digital visual displays and enhanced historical exhibitions, along with the Taiping Peace Trails, namely the Jana Trail, Taiping Tin Trail and Matang-Kuala Sepetang Trail.
Loh said with more than 33 “No. 1” distinctions in Malaysia, Taiping carries a unique identity.
From the iconic Taiping Lake Gardens to Bukit Larut – the country’s first hill station – as well as its well-preserved old town heritage, Taiping stands out as a destination unlike any other.
He said the success of Visit Perak 2024, which recorded over 10.2 million domestic tourists and nearly a million international visitors, shows the state is on the right track.
Of this, Taiping contributed more than 1.5 million visitors; a figure that proves its potential is no longer just anticipated, but already realised.
Loh added that the launch of the Peace Trails further complements efforts to develop more sustainable and meaningful tourism products.
He said the state government remains committed to supporting sustainable, inclusive and high-impact tourism development in line with Visit Malaysia 2026.
Taiping Heritage Society president Liew Suet Fun said the initiative aims to build a more sustainable tourism programme for Taiping.
