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Tua Pek Kong: A Seaside Temple With Malaysia’s Largest Statue Of The Chinese Deity In Perak

Tua Pek Kong Temple in Perak


Beyond the well-trodden paths of Ipoh, you’ll find a treasure trove of charming towns in Perak filled with interesting attractions. In a local village along Jalan Pasir Panjang in Sitiawan, there’s Tua Pek Kong Temple, a grand seaside Chinese temple that stands out for more reasons than just its location and extravagance.

Overlooking the Straits of Malacca, this temple has an eye-catching collection of over 95 whitewashed statues, including the largest statue of Tua Pek Kong in Malaysia.


All you need to know about Tua Pek Kong Temple


Image credit: tm sii via Google Maps

Tua Pek Kong is a century-old temple that overlooks the Straits of Malacca. With nearly 100 statues of Chinese deities and zodiac animals to marvel at, and breathtaking sea views to behold, the free-entry temple has become a must-visit attraction in Sitiawan.

The massive statue of Tua Pek Kong measuring 48ft tall has also been attracting visitors from near and far. It’s said to be the tallest statue of the deity in Malaysia.

Tua Pek Kong Temple in Perak - statue
Image credit: @german991020 via Instagram

For the uninitiated, the main deity of this temple is referred to as “Grand Uncle” by the locals. A legend among the Malaysian Chinese pantheon of gods, this divine figure is said to have graced the shores of Penang 40 years before Francis Light in 1746.

According to Chinese folklore, Tua Pek Kong was once a man of immense virtue and wisdom, rumoured to be a savvy Chinese merchant who set foot in Malaysia centuries ago. After he passed on, he was transformed into a god linked with wealth, protection, and good fortune.

Tua Pek Kong Temple in Perak - deities
Image credit: @flogeduin via Instagram

The statue of the deity is not the only attraction at the temple.

A dazzling array of well-sculpted statues are scattered around the temple grounds, including over 10 of them that face the sea, a huge one of a Laughing Buddha, and another of the goddess Guan Yin.


Image credit: @xmaine_ via Instagram

The temple is also encircled by a stunning castellated wall, which visitors can stroll along the ramparts to soak up unblocked views of the Straits of Malacca.

Tua Pek Kong Temple in Perak - mangrove
The pathways extend out over the mangrove forest, so you can get a better view of the surrounding scenery.
Image credit: @john._.s9 via Instagram


Other attractions at Tua Pek Kong Temple


Tua Pek Kong Temple in Perak - dragon tunnel
Image credit: @mohd.edzuan via Instagram

At the heart of Tua Pek Kong Temple lies a dragon tunnel that visitors can venture into.

Tua Pek Kong Temple in Perak - dragon hall
Image credit: Winston Chuah via Google Maps

Your journey through the dragon will begin at the “mouth”, followed by winding your way through its serpentine body where murals vividly illustrate the Ten Chambers of Hell and the grim warnings of hell’s perils. They serve as a striking reminder of the consequences of misdeeds – definitely food for thought as you wander through the tunnel.

Tua Pek Kong Temple in Perak - garden
Image credit: @javimalayo via Instagram

Legend has it that the temple’s fountain is a magnet for good fortune. For years, visitors have flocked to this spot, eager to catch a whiff of luck before testing their fate at the lottery.

Ask the folks of Sitiawan, and you’ll hear tales of locals who took a dip and struck it rich. Rumoured to be the ultimate pre-lottery ritual, many believe the temple’s wealth has been generously boosted by donations from lottery winners who sought luck and success here.

Tua Pek Kong Temple in Perak - nearby shops
Image credit: Kevin via Google Maps

Just next to the temple, you’ll stumble upon a row of shops selling snacks and knick-knacks.


Explore a temple of luck and fortune in a Perak village


Malaysia is a country blessed with a diverse culture and rich history. Tua Pek Kong Temple is one of many sacred places of worship that not only serves as a site for prayer for devotees, but an attraction with a wealth of statues of Chinese deities and eye-catching architectural that’s worth a visit.

Address: Jalan Pasir Panjang, 32000, Sitiawan, Perak
Opening hours: 7am-10.30pm, Daily


Cover image adapted from: @mohd.edzuan via Instagram, @flogeduin via Instagram, @john._.s9 via Instagram