Pekan Rabu (Wednesday Market) is a well-known cultural and commercial landmark, most famously associated with Alor Setar, Kedah. Despite its name, which literally translates to “Wednesday Market,” the modern complex operates daily, serving as a vibrant hub for local life and commerce.
Historically, the market began as an informal gathering of Malay traders on Wednesdays, encouraged by a Kedah royal to promote local enterprise. This spirit is embodied today in the multi-storey shopping complex, which has become a symbol of Malay economic activity in the region. A notable part of its history involves former Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, who was once a trader there during the Japanese Occupation.
Today, visitors flock to Pekan Rabu for its wide array of goods, especially traditional items. Shoppers can find beautiful Batik fabric, local handicrafts, traditional Malay attire, and unique regional food specialties like Laksa Kedah and Pekasam (fermented fish). The complex is celebrated for offering a tangible experience of Kedah’s rich culture and heritage, maintaining its status as a compulsory stop for tourists visiting Alor Setar.
