Tuesday, 30 July 2013

Heritage in Perak's

Perak Heritage Society





 Concerned with the rate at which heritage sites are being destroyed, and the ‘improvement’ of the Ipoh Padang in 2002, a group of people got together to form the Perak Heritage Society (PHS). It was registered in August 2003.


The main objective of the PHS is to ‘promote public awareness, conservation and preservation of our social, environment and cultural heritage for the benefit of the people of Perak’. In truth, we deal with Perak's natural, cultural and industrial heritage. Tin-mining is the most significant industrial Malaysia world heritage concentrated in Perak, which is also the first state to record the cultural heritage of our aboriginal people, the Orang Asli. Today, while retaining their identity, the community is present alongside other ethnicities especially in small towns.



 Site visits affirm perceptions of heritage. To this end, the PHS organizes regular outings for members and friends to places of heritage interest like the old tin-mining town of Chemor, Gopeng, Kampar and Taiping. Other fun and relaxing trips (heri.trails) include the Perak River trails, taking in Kuala Kangsar the royal town, the Lenggong Valley, Parit, Bota, Pair Salak and Teluk Intan.

 Talks about history, heritage and conservation in practice have also been organized. Our speakers ranged from Malcolm Wade who spoke about Perak Postal History, Raimy Che Ross who spoke on ‘Kota Gelanggi – The Lost City’ to Lim Take Bane’s talk on ‘Adaptive Re-use of Old Buildings’.






 In 2006, the PHS was also given the opportunity to premiere Amir Muhamad’s film ‘The Last Communist’ as a fund-raiser for the Society. It was all systems go but the art film was banned two weeks prior to the screening.

 Nonetheless, it inspired the PHS to screen films which were shot on location in Perak. Of interest to old film buffs, these films provide us the chance to view places and vistas which may have been changed or destroyed. These films serve as semi-documents on many of our photogenic heritage sites.

 Information on heritage issues is disseminated through our bi-monthly newsletter ‘Heritage News’ and through articles in the Press on the activities of the Society. E-copies of the Heritage News are also available to friends and supporters. Positive and delightful reports on our heritage trails have attracted new members and garnered support from the men on the street. We also deal with numerous requests for information on heritage issues and renovation of old buildings. We maintain an expanding network with individuals and community groups in different parts of the state, and work with organizations based in Ipoh, the capital city of Perak.




 The PHS is a resource for researchers and writers. We assist and arrange interviews with and provide guide and information to individuals and communities. In our network, we participate in community activities, and assist behind the scene by creating public awareness through media blitz. We also lend our support to other's causes, such as the Save the Royal Belum and Save the Koay Jetty campaigns.

Tuesday, 23 July 2013

Background Coat of Arms and Flag of The State of Perak

Lambang Negeri Perak

Lambang Negeri Perak Darul Ridzuan mengandungi Jata Ke Bawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Sultan Perak Darul Ridzuan. Jata ini dilingkungi dengan bulan sabit yang mengandungi bunga padi.Jata melambangkan Kedaulatan Raja Pemerintah.Bulan Sabit menandakan Agama Islam sebagai agama rasmi.Bunga padi menggambarkan sumber perusahaan rakyat dan kesuburan negeri.

Bendera Negeri Perak

Bendera negeri Perak Darul Ridzuan mengandungi tiga warna berjalur putih, kuning dan hitam. Ketiga-tiga jalur ini sama lebarnya.Warna putih melambangkan kebesaran Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Sultan Perak Darul Ridzuan.Warna kuning melambangkan kebesaran Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Raja Muda Perak Darul Ridzuan.Warna hitam melambangkan kebesaran Duli Yang Amat Mulia Raja Di Hilir Perak Darul Ridzuan.

Perak Food & Restaurant Reviews

Citrus Wine & Dine


The food, ambience, and service was quite impeccable, deserving brownie points for areas which really matter. Parking’s a no-brainer as well, free lots all around the building… Perdana, 31400 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia. ...
Food/SpecialBroccoli Soup, Garlic Bread, Aglio Olio Pasta with BBQ Chicken or Grilled..
Cuisines Western

David's Diner


The food is reasonably priced, and of course, they tasted brilliant. The service was great.
Food/SpecialGarden Salad, Baked Potato Chicken Soup, Mushroom Soup, Chocolate Milkshake, Deep Fried..
Cuisines Western

Pakeeza Restaurant


Food/SpecialKashmiri Naan, Tandoori Roti, Cheese Naan, Plain Biryani Rice, Juices, Lassi,
Locations IpohPerak
Cuisines Indian

Koh Samui Restaurant


If you fancy hot, sour and spicy dishes, this is the right place for you. They offer an array of highly flavoursome and authentic Thai cuisine. The service is excellent, with free filling of fragrant rice. The staff with greet you with…. Ekram, 30450, Ipoh, Perak. ...
Food/SpecialTom Yam Soup with Seafood, Mixed Vegetables in Chinese Style, Pineapple fried..
Cuisines Thai

Indulgence Restaurant and Jazz Room


Food/SpecialTiramisu, Bread, Hand Made Saffron Spaghetti with Seafood, Smoked Duck Salad, fresh..
Cuisines Western

Berlin's Beir Houz


A Unique Gastronomic Experience. A German European Concept Restaurant and Bar. 1st in Ipoh serving u a good quality imported Beer on Draught & Bottle. German traditional food like German Sausage…Perak,Malaysia. ...
Cuisines GermanEuropean








Perak Darul Ridzuan (Song)

Perak Darul Ridzuan
Negeri indah permai
Penduduknya hidup aman damai
Dinaungi keadilan sultan

Kuala Kangsar Bandar Diraja
Iskandariah istana ternama
Tempat bersemayam Baginda Paduka Seri
Menjadi lambang tunggak negeri

Bukit Larut
Waktu malam… berkelipan
Udaranya sejuk nyaman menyegarkan
Indahnya ciptaan Tuhan

Di tengah samudera biru
Pulau Pangkor dengan pantai yang bersih
Tempat bersukaria tumpuan para pelancong
Pemandangan indah yang terbentang

Lihat padi menguning
Menambah seri Daerah Kerian
Di Hilir Perak
Nyiur melambai-lambai
Oh sungguh subur tanah airku

Kinta daerah tengah
Hasilnya bijih timah
Batu Gajah bandar yang bertuah
Tempat keputeraan seri sultan

Hulu Perak nun di utara
Kaya dengan sumber hasil hutannya
Sungainya tersergam
Empangan tinggi menjulang
Segagah wira di perbatasan

Pasir Salak bersejarah dan berdarah
Dato Sagor Dato Maharajalela
Gugur pertahankan bangsa

SITC maktab tertua
Gedung ilmu bakti suluh budiman
Lahirkan cendekiawan
Pejuang bangsa negara
Kekal abadi sepanjang zaman

Perak makmur bahagia
Dengan sembilan daerah yang ada
Betapa indah tanah air tercinta
Sejahteralah Perak oh negeriku
Perak… Perak… oh negeriku.

Attractions and Places of Interests in Perak

Perak Darul Ridzuan, also known as the Land Of Grace, has just about everything for everyone, places and graces that speak of genuine warmth and charming hospitality. It is rich with history, culture, folklore and heritage. It is the state of ageless architectural splendor, island resorts that offer sun, sea and sand including virgin tropical jungles, beautiful holiday hideaways, natural recreational parks and a host of specialized museums. Discover the treasures that make Perak such a fascinating experience.


Perak Tong & Sam Poh Tong


Within the huge limestone caves of Gunung Tasek, 6 km to the north of lpoh, nestles the Perak Tong temple. Built in 1926 by a Buddhist priest from China, the temple houses over 40 Buddha. Beyond the main altar, a passage leads into the cave's interior. After a steep climb of 385 steps, the cave opens again to reveal a wonderful view of the surrounding countryside.

Another famous cave temple is the Sam Poh Tong temple, located in Gunung Rapat, 5 km south of lpoh. The temple is an impressive work of art and faith, with various statues of Buddha among natural stalactites and stalagmites.
There is also a pond where visitors can feed tortoise, (symbol of longevity) with stalks of vegetables and a wishing well for those seeking better fortunes. Outside the temple is a vegetarian restaurant.
Kellie's Castle


About 30 minutes drive from lpoh, it is believed that Kellie's Castle has hidden rooms and a secret tunnel. The road which leads to the Castle follows the contours of the land in a dizzying, maze-like fashion, adding to the mystery and romance of the place.


Kuala Woh Jungle Park


Situated about 13km from Tapah, on the way to Cameron Highlands, Kuala Woh presents a natural backdrop for fun- seekers to swim, picnic and fish. Interesting features include the natural hot-water pool, various waterfalls and Tebing Merbau. Orang asli, or aborigines, live in this area, according to their traditional way of life. They are friendly but shy by nature.

Besides Lata iskandar and Kuala Woh, there are two other waterfalls sites which are quite popular: the Ulu Kinta Waterfalls, 16km from lpoh, and Batu Hampar near Taiping.

Gua Tempurung


Believed to have existed since 8000 B.C., Gua Tempurung is probably the largest natural limestone cave in Malaysia. Situated about 24 kilometers from lpoh, the cave stretches for 1.5 kilometers and is made up of five huge domes whose ceilings resemble coconut shells. Each dome has different formations of stalagmites and stalactites as well as differing temperatures, water levels, content of limestone and marble.
Geological Museum



Established in 1957, the Geological Museum at Jalan Sultan Azian Shah in lpoh houses a collection of over 600 samples of minerals, classified according to chemical content and structure. The museum is well known for its exhibition of tin ore, including the best specimen of cassiterite in the world. There is also an impressive collection of fossils, precious stones and rock specimens.


Visiting hours are from 8.00 am to 4.15 pm (Mon-Fri) and 8.00 am to 12.45 pm (Sat). Admission is free but visitors must obtain entry permission from the information counter.


DBI Swimming Complex


The Dewan Bandaraya lpoh Swimming Complex is the largest and most modern complex of its kind in South-East Asia and boasts on Olympic size pool, a diving pool, a beginners'-pool, a children's pool and the first ever wave pool in Malaysia. The complex is part of the Perak Sports Complex which also houses a stadium with a velodrome and astroturf field.
Darul Ridzuan Museum



It is located at Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab, lpoh and was officially open to the public in 1992. Among the interesting artifacts on show are the history and development of lpoh and the mining and forestry industry of Perak. Built more than a hundred years ago and it has a colourful history. Among others it has been home to the Malay Chieftains of Kinta and the British rulers. The museum is opened everyday (a half day on Thursday) except Friday from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm. Admission is free.

Ubudiah Mosque


Located at Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kangsar, The Ubudiah Mosque is reputed to be one of the most beautiful mosques in the country and a symbol of pride and faith for all Muslims in Perak. The mosque's magnificent golden dome and minarets are testaments to the beauty of Islamic architecture. The construction of the mosque began in the reign of Sultan ldris Murshidul Adzam Shah 1, the 28th Sultan of Perak. The mosque was officially opened by Sultan Jalil Karamatullah Shah in 1917.
Perak Museum, Taiping



Built in 1883, the Perak Museum is the oldest museum in the country. it houses an impressive collection of ancient weapons, aboriginal implements, ornaments and archaeological treasures. Also on display are artifacts from Perak's rich historical culture and heritage. An excellent place to begin an in-depth study of the state and its past achievements.
Visiting hours: 9.30 am to 5.00 pm. Admission - Free
Lata Iskandar Waterfalls



The Lata Iskandar Waterfalls, on the way up to Cameron Highlands from Tapah, is an ideal picnic area and favourite stopover. Its surrounding jungle is home to one of the largest variety of exotic insect and plant life in the world. Traditional earthenware pottery is crafted at Kampung Kerayung.



Pasir Salak Historical Complex


Time seems to stand still in this little village beside a slow river. Pasir Salak is well-known for its ancient Malay architecture and craft: every wooden house is decorated with intricate traditional designs and nature inspired motifs. Here, too, stands the memorial dedicated to the historical incident in which the first British Resident in Perak, J,W.W. Birch was slain by the late Maharaja Lela, Dato' Sagor and Si Puntum. There are also two 'Kutai House' (Perak traditional house) inside the complex. These houses would display various local historical and Malay culture artifacts.
Teluk Intan Leaning Tower


The pride of Teluk Intan, 84km from lpoh, is its spectacular Leaning Tower. Reminiscent of the Leaning Tower of Pisa this pagoda-like structure was built in 1885 by a Chinese contractor, Leong Choon Choong. The dominating 25.5m tower was once used for water storage.
Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary


Kuala Gula is famous for the variety of exotic birds which come here to nest. Over 100 species of birds, some of them protected, have been sighted in this area. Mammals can also be seen here, among them the smooth otter, dusky leaf monkey, long-tailed macaque and the ridgeback dolphin. The best time to visit is between September and December, when thousands of birds can be seen in the area.
Banding Resort


The Banding resort, 35km from Grik, is the ideal place for fishing enthusiast and those who really want to get away from it all. This remote resort covers 103.6 hectares next to the Temenggor Lake at the mid-point of the East-West highway.

The lake delivers fish of generous proportions and there is ample opportunity for trekking, camping and picnicking. At present, there is a modern restaurant and rest-house which provides comfortable accommodation. Plans are underway for expansion and improvement of the existing facilities.

Taiping Lake Garden


This 62-hectare park is one of the biggest and most beautiful parks in the country. It offers lush greenery, a beautiful lake abounding with freshwater fish, a gazebo and a colourtul profusion of flowers. The Taiping Zoo, probably the oldest zoo in the country, is another attraction located within the Gardens.

Visiting hours 8.30 am to 6.30 pm daily. Fares are RM3.00 for adults, RM1.50 for children, primary student with uniform RMO.50 and secondary student with uniform RM1.00. Other facilities available at the Gardens include a rest house, fishing and aqua biking in the area.


Ipoh Raiway Station


The lpoh Railway Station bears close resemblance to its Kuala Lumpur counterpart and is affectionately known to locals as the Taj Mahal of lpoh. An impressive landmark which combines Moorish architecture with modern embellishments, it is surrounded by a beautiful floral garden which serves as a charming welcome for tourist.

A Brief History of Perak

There are several versions as to the origin of Perak.  Some say that the name "PERAK" came from Bendahara Tun Perak of Malacca while some say that it came from the "glimmer of fish in the water" that sparkled like silver, or Perak as it is known in Malay.  Therefore, the mere mention of the state's name will reflect the treasures hidden in its earth.





The Perak State, in actual fact, has been in existence since the prehistoric age.  Kota Tampan in Lenggong is the one and only proof that the Palaeolithic Age existed in Malaya.  The Perak State went through numerous evolutions between 400 000 BC and 8000 BC.  The state had experienced the Hoabinhian Era and the Neolithic Age as well as the Metal Age, which was proven with the findings of relevant ancient artifacts.  Then came the Hindu/Buddha era.  It was thought to have occured simultaneously with the rest of Malaya.





After this period, the history of the state advanced a step further with the formation of minor territories such as Manjung in the Dinding District and Beruas which came into existence after Manjung ceased to exist.  This also apply to a few other territories in the Perak Tengah and Hulu Perak. 





It was also then that Islam began to plant its roots firmly in the state.  Historically Perak's history actually began with the installation of Sultan Muzaffar Shah 1, who was a descendent of Sultan Mahmud Shah of Malacca, in the year 1528.  Although the Perak Sultanate had formed the territorial powers were still in effect.  The administrative method was an extension of the democratic feudal system of Malacca.




Perak became more prominent with the discovery of tin in Larut, Taiping in 1848 by Long Jaafar.  With this discovery, Perak's economy boomed and more mining areas were brought into existence.  In addition to tin ore, natural rubber also played an important role and is still being planted after the reign of 33 or 34 consecutive Sultans.  Due to this significant implication of economic development resulted in the birth of a multiracial society especially with the introduction of the Chinese into the mining area.  The British who had long been interested Perak, intervened through the Pangkor Treaty in 1874 after a riot in Larut.  As a result of this intervention, the Residential system was introduced with James W.W Birch as its first Resident.




Initially, the Residential system was supposed to yield positive results.  However, because it deviated from its original cause, compled with the natives' refused to be colonized led to an uprising against the Resident under the leadership of Datuk Maharaja Lela.  As a result J.W.W. Birch was assassinated in 1875.  The Residential system continued until the arrival of the Japanese to Malaya in 1941.  The Perak State also suffered, as did others, during the Japanese occupation of Malaya until the year 1945.  Even after the Japanese surrendered, the British still colonized Malaya until the year 1948.  Violence was rampant then in Perak, due to Communist terrorism.




After the Japanese occupation in Malaya, the Malay States were not stable.  The British did their utmost best to maintain their position by introducing new administration systems such as the Malayan Union in 1946, despite the people's nationalistic spirit to seek independence.   The people of Malaya combined their efforts with all state dignitaries to fully rebel against all British systems.  They continuously oppressed until the British granted Malaya independence in 1957.




The independence of Malaya meant the freedom for all its Federated States, which Perak was a part of rapid development in all fields continued until today, after the reign of 34 consecutive Sultans.