Alor Setar Tower, Telecommunications tower in Alor Setar, Malaysia.
Alor Setar Tower is a telecommunications tower in the center of Alor Setar, the capital of the state of Kedah in Malaysia, with a public observation deck near its top. The structure has four floors dedicated to different functions, making it the tallest point in the city.
The tower was completed in 1997 and designed by Hijjas Kasturi Associates, a Malaysian architecture firm also responsible for several of the country's most recognized buildings. Its construction took place during a period of rapid economic growth across Malaysia.
The tower serves as an official moon-sighting point for the Muslim community in Kedah, used to determine the start of Ramadan and other Islamic celebrations. Visitors can see the equipment used for these observations, giving the site a role that goes beyond a simple lookout.
Two elevators bring visitors up to the observation deck, making it easy to reach even for those who have trouble with stairs. Early morning or around sunset tends to offer the clearest views over the surrounding paddy fields and city rooftops.
Although Alor Setar is known for its traditional Islamic architecture, the tower's designer chose a form that looks like a spaceship, creating a sharp visual contrast with the historic buildings nearby. This contrast becomes especially noticeable when you see the tower from street level next to the old palaces and mosques of the city center.
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