The True Function and History of the Teluk Intan Leaning Clock Tower

The Leaning Clock Tower is a clock tower located in Teluk Intan, Perak, and has long served as a landmark for the town. The uniqueness of this tower is that it resembles the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy.

Introduction to the Teluk Intan Leaning Clock Tower

The tower was built in 1885, stands 85 feet tall, and contains 110 steps. Although it is over 100 years old, it still stands firm, albeit slightly tilted and leaning.

This tower was actually a water reservoir before the existence of the water tank in Changkat Jong. The three-story building is equipped with a large clock. Today, the tower is no longer in use and serves only as a tourist attraction for those visiting Teluk Intan. The base is decorated with beautiful landscaping, including flower pots, marble flooring, and benches for families to relax.

Original Condition Before Tilting

The Leaning Clock Tower was not originally tilted as it is today. The person responsible for building the clock tower was Leong Choon Cheong, also known as Ah Cheong. As an architect, he was inspired to build it with a design based on pagodas in China.

Ten years after its construction, in 1895, a massive flood occurred in Teluk Intan, causing the tower to be submerged. It is believed that the weight of the floodwaters caused the tower to begin tilting towards the West.

Usage During the Japanese Occupation

During the Japanese occupation (1942-1945), the clock tower building was used as a control tower to monitor the arrival of enemies. The wooden structure used by the Japanese military caused damage, particularly to the upper section.

Purpose of Constructing the Leaning Clock Tower

Today, this leaning building is dubbed the second leaning clock tower in the world after Pisa in Italy. According to a study, the purpose of building the leaning clock tower, also known as the High Clock, was as follows:

• to store water for local residents during the dry season
• to ensure British water management facilities were improved
• to provide a water supply in the event of a fire
• as a timekeeper

The water tank is located on the third floor and is made of steel, standing 16 feet high. This tank could hold 680 cubic feet of water. The tower was once used by the National Family Planning Board and the Teluk Intan Scout Association.

Have you ever visited and seen for yourself the uniqueness of the Teluk Intan Leaning Clock Tower? If you have the chance, come and see its uniqueness for yourself.