Siti Khadijah Market
Kelantan
Siti Khadijah Market, located in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia, is a renowned four-story octagonal market famous for its predominantly female vendors. Named after Khadija bint Khuwaylid, the businesswoman wife of the Prophet Muhammad, the market reflects the strong entrepreneurial spirit of local women. Established originally as Buluh Kubu Market in 1985 and officially opened by Sultan Ismail Petra, it was renamed in 1997 by Kelantan's Menteri Besar Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat to honor women traders. The market's architecture features a unique octagonal shape, housing a diverse range of goods across its floors. The ground floor specializes in wet items such as fresh fish, vegetables, and poultry, while the first floor offers dry food products including traditional Kelantanese snacks like serundeng, ayam percik, nasi dagang, and laksam. The upper floors are dedicated to non-food items. Siti Khadijah Market is not only a shopping destination but also a cultural hub where visitors can experience the local Kelantanese lifestyle and cuisine.
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Tip: The best time to visit Siti Khadijah Market is in the morning when fresh produce and local delicacies are most abundant. Visitors are encouraged to explore the variety of traditional Kelantanese foods available, such as nasi dagang and laksam. Advance planning is advisable during festive seasons due to higher visitor traffic. While entry is free, purchasing from local vendors supports the community, and some discounts may be available for bulk purchases. The market is accessible daily, but checking opening hours ahead is recommended to ensure a full experience.
Interesting facts
- •The market is named after Khadija bint Khuwaylid, the wife of Prophet Muhammad, who was a successful businesswoman, reflecting the market's female-dominated vendor community.
- •The building has a distinctive octagonal architectural design spanning four floors.
- •The market is known for traditional Kelantanese foods such as nasi dagang, laksam, ayam percik, and various local snacks.
- •In 2024, the Malaysian federal government allocated funds for upgrading the market's infrastructure, completed in 2025.
History
Originally established in 1985 as Buluh Kubu Market, Siti Khadijah Market was opened by Sultan Ismail Petra with the foundation stone laid by Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah.
In 1997, it was renamed by Menteri Besar Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat to honor the women traders who predominantly operate there.
The market has undergone infrastructure upgrades, including a significant enhancement completed in 2025 following government funding announced in 2024.
These developments have maintained its status as a central commercial and cultural site in Kota Bharu.
Place Guide
Ground Floor - Wet Market
This level specializes in fresh produce including fish, vegetables, and poultry. It is the busiest floor in the early morning and offers a glimpse into daily local life and fresh food sourcing.
First Floor - Dry Food and Traditional Snacks
Dedicated to dry food items and traditional Kelantanese delicacies such as serundeng, ayam percik, nasi dagang, laksam, and local cakes. This floor is a must-visit for food enthusiasts wanting to taste authentic local flavors.
Second and Third Floors - Non-Food Items
These upper floors feature non-food products including household goods, textiles, and crafts, providing a comprehensive shopping experience beyond food items.
Contact
Phone: 017-914 6218
