Malaysia, Ipoh - Early 20th Century Memorial Clock Tower

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Despite being a fairly frequent visitor to Ipoh, capital city of Malaysia's Perak state, I find myself constantly discovering new and interesting stuff about the city on each new visit. 

In my most recent visit in November 2017, I was driving around with friends in the Ipoh Padang area looking for a nice cafe to relax, chill and catch some virtual Pokemon on my mobile Pokemon GO game when we chanced upon a clock tower with distinctly European-style carvings and decorations.

Birch Memorial Memorial Clock Tower, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia (2017)

I searched the internet for more information on this unique clock tower and learned that it is known as the Birch Memorial Clock Tower. Constructed in the early 20th century, it was first unveiled in the year 1909 in honour of J.W.W. Birch, a British Officer. Look closely and you will find a bronze bust of Birch in the north-facing facade. Perched on top of the tower is a bell measuring approximately 6-ft and 6-inches in diameter. Mounted on pedestals around the square-shaped tower are statues representing the virtues of British Administrations; Loyalty, Justice, Patience and Fortitude. 

Closer view of the Birch Memorial Memorial Clock Tower, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia (2017)

Intricate decorations on one of the sides of the small square facade of the Birch Memorial Memorial Clock Tower, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia (2017)

If you are in Ipoh or visiting Ipoh soon and would like to view the Birch Memorial Memorial Clock Tower, it is conveniently located within the Ipoh Padang area, near Old Town. The key landmark to look out for will be the Ipoh State Mosque as the clock tower is located just next to it.

The full address for the clock tower is 31650 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia, if you are using Google or Apple Maps to assist you in locating the site during your trip. 

A British colonial-style building near the Birch Memorial Memorial Clock Tower, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia (2017)

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