Perak Darul Ridzuan

            Perak is bounded to the north by pulau pinang (seberang prai), to the south by Selangor, to the east by Kelantan and Pahang has a coartline facing the straits of Melaka to the west. It is the richest state in tin resources in the country and the kinta valley possessed at one time the richest alluvial deposits in the world. The Perak river is the second longest in the peninsula (400 km).

The state also produces paddy, pineapple, palm oil, rubber and timber. The deep natural harbour of Lumut in dinding provides malaysia with its major

Manjung - Pulau Banding

PLACES OF INTEREST Island and Beaches

Pulau Banding Pulau Banding, situated in the middle of tasik temenggor, is served by a resthouse - Banding Island Resort, and a petronas petrol station. The resthouse has 28 air-conditioned rooms with attached bathrooms, and offers a restaurant, function rooms that can accommodate 10 to 150 people, and activities for both indoor and outdoor recreation, including fishing, birdwatching, jungle trekking and boating. Pulau Banding is also the venue of the annual banding fishing contest.

Pulau Bubung This is one of the many islands found in Tasik Temenggor (Lake Temenggor). It is inhabited by the Jahai and Temia native tribes. The island has a reputation as a good location for freshwater fishing.

Pulau Chiong Pulau Chiong is one of the many islands at tasik temenggor (lake temenggor) in banding. The island is inhabited by the jahai and temia native tribes, who are expert fishermen and skillful hunters. The island has a reputation as being a good location for freshwater fishing.

Pulau Perhilitan Pulau Perhilitan is one of the many islands at tasik temenggor (Temenggor Lake) in banding. Occasionally, it becomes the station for government officers when conducting research and observations.

Pulau Tekam Pulau Tekam is one of the many islands at tasik temenggor (Temenggor Lake) in banding. This cool and tranquil retreat is an ideal place to associate with the surrounding nature. Definitely gives you the opportunity to relax and unwind. Here, one can find some orang asli (aborigines) settlements.

Pulau Tujuh Pulau Tujuh is one of the many islands at tasik temenggor (Temenggor Lake) in banding. Most of the inhabitants here normally extend a warm welcome to their visitors. They are natives (aborigines) of the `jahai` and temia` tribe who are known to be great fishermen and hunters.

Manjung - Pangkor Island

Places of interest island and beaches

Nipah bay/teluk nipah pantai teluk nipah is situated approx 1 kilometre from pantai pasir bogak. The beach is secluded and is able to maintain its natural beauty. Unlike other beaches, it has corals, sea cucumber and bird lovers can find the hornbill (burung enggang) on this beach.

Pangkor island pangkor island is situated about 7 kilometres from lumut town across the straits of malacca. It comprised of 9 small islands, pulau pangkor laut, pulau mentagor, pulau glam, pulau dua, pulau tukun terinduk, batu orang tua (batu mandi), pulau simpan, pulau jarak and pulau tukun pekan.

Pangkor laut resort this is malaysia's very own fantasy island. It has three main beaches, namely emerald bay which is ideal for swimming, sunbathing coral beach, a haven for skin divers in search of colourful corals and underwater marine life and royal bay.

Pantai puteri dewi pantai puteri dewi, which literally means beach of the lovely princess, offers a stretch of fine white sand and shimmering blue seas on the fringes of lush green tropical forest. Here, the shallow crystal-clear water enables you to frolic in the water along the vast coral reef. along the stretch of beach, there are various accommodations ranging from hotels, government rest house to budget chalets. In fact, the pan pacific resort pangkor here offers elegant accommodation with 161 rooms, a sports hall, a golf course, convention rooms as well as facilities for snorkelling and wind surfing.

Pantai pasir bogak accessible by road from pangkor town, this is the most popular beach on pulau pangkor (pangkor island). It has been described as 'the biggest swimming pool in the world'. The water is shallow and crystal clear, offering endless hours of fun and frolic in the sun-kissed sea along the vast coral reef. the two-kilometre crescent-shaped beach offers a host of facilities such as sailing, fishing, snorkeling and wind surfing (available at sea view and beach hotels) making pasir bogak beach a more popular recreation spot for the local population. thronging the beach are open-air stalls offering local delicacies such as barbecued squids, satay and fish crisps. In fact, accommodation is easily available, ranging from luxury hotels, chalets to the more spartan comforts of 'attap' huts and camping sites.

Pulau sembilan one sure sign of a good fishing sport is to look out for the anchovies. Where there are lots of them, there is certainly plenty of fish around as it is mother nature's rule for the big fishes to feed on the smaller ones. One spot off the coast of perak which teems with anchovies is the waters near pulau sembilan, a group of nine islands about an hour and a half boat ride off the south-west of pangkor. Naturally, all these add up to make pulau sembilan something of an angler's paradise. A perfect spot to head to for those with fishing on their minds and also the most likely spot t land a whopper or two with every cast of the line.

Hulu Perak

Places of interest nature and adventure

Baring peak the baring peak that spans along the way from banding in gerik to kelantan is indeed the east-west highway's highest peak. One will definitely enjoy the lushful, green scenery from the top of bukit baring since it is surrounded by other hills and mountains which are part of the titiwangsa range.

Belum forest reserve towards the north and northwest of tasik temenggor lie a vast area of virgin jungle known as belum forest reserve. It was out of bounds to visitors until recently, but permission has to be sought to enter the area as it is still a security area. Nevertheless, belum forest reserve is of great interest to ecologists, conservationalists and nature enthusiasts.

Inai park this recreational park is situated in the town of gerik, up north of the perak state.

Lata batu tergantung this is one of the many cascading waterfalls in perak and a good location for a picnic or a quiet snooze out in the open. The locals would sometimes do their fishing at the river tributaries.

Lata kekabu set in the locale of lenggong, this waterfall is encompassed by forest reserves abundant with a diverse range of tropical trees and foliage. For those who wish to be one with nature and desire a different mode of accommodation, there is a camping site near the waterfalls. There is also a multi-purpose hall nearby which is used for meetings and receiving visitors.

Mount kenderong for eco challenge enthusiasts or those who prefer to go off the beaten track, check out the challenging gunung kenderong (4,014 m) also known as 'twin peaks of hulu perak'. available here are camping facilities and mountain guides at reasonable rates for interested parties. Pengkalan Hulu Lake Garden One of the main attractions at the Pengkalan Hulu is its lake gardens. It is truly a good place to unwind and drink in the surrounding vistas, the exuberant greenery and colourful flora. For fishing enthusiasts, try your luck at the lake. 'Perak Man' Cave Human skeletons, said to be that of the early settlers of Perak, were found in this cave. They were believed to be from the earlier centuries, perhaps 4 BC. The cave where the skeletons were found has since been graced with the name `Perak Man` Cave. Located in Kampung Gelok in Lenggong, about 86 km from Ipoh City. Puteri Cave Legend has it that during the territorial wars between the Sultan and local chieftains, Her Royal Highness, the Princess would seek refuge in this cave. Many times the enemy could not locate her, as the cave was well protected by thick foliage and well camouflaged. Located in Kampung Gelok in Lenggong, about 86 km from Ipoh City. Tampan Fort Kota Tampan in Lenggong, believed to be where the earliest civilisation in the region first set foot, has now turned into an archaeological site. Many tools dating back to the Bronze Age had been revealed through excavation works. Tanjung Kala This beautiful five-level waterfall is one of many popular local waterfalls in the state of Perak. The refreshing atmosphere and the cascading sounds of the waterfall give this place a unique charm of its own and many could not resist taking a dip in the cool ice-cool mountain water. Located at Tanjung Kala. Temenggor Lake Covering 15,200 hectares, Tasik Temenggor is the largest man-made lake in Perak. The lake's panoramic beauty is complemented by the rich flora and fauna. This enchanting atmosphere is further enhanced by the unique lifestyle of the orang Asli (aborigines) who make their homes in the jungles surrounding the lake.

Hilir Perak Teluk Intan

PLACES OF INTEREST Nature and Adventure

Teluk Intan Formerly known as teluk anson, this sleepy little town was once an outlet for tin export from the kinta valley. Today, it is just a small town that deals with retail and general trading.but on its outskirts, business is as usual for people of the coastal villages. For centuries, they have been wooden boat makers and designers, and the boatyards located in and around Teluk Intan bear testimony to this.

Teluk Intan leaning tower The pride of Teluk Intan, 84km from Ipoh, is its spectacular leaning tower. Reminiscent of the leaning tower of pisa this pagoda-like structure was built in 1885 by chinese contractor, leong choon choong. The dominating 25.5m tower was once used for water storage.

Batang Padang - Tapah

PLACES OF INTEREST Nature and Adventure

Aborigines Settlement Most of the Orang Asli settlements can be found in the vicinity of Lata Iskandar (Iskandar Waterfall) and Kuala Woh. Visit them and see how they live. The main source of income for these people come from the sale of traditional handicraft like rattan baskets, fruits like durian and forest produce like petai (green edible seeds which locals eat raw).

Kuala Woh Recreational Forest Kuala Woh presents a natural backdrop for fun-seekers to swim, picnic and fish. Interesting features include the natural hot-water pool, various waterfalls, Tebing Merbau, 30-metre suspended bridge crossing over the Batang Padang River as well as the opportunity to spot butterflies of the Rajah Brooks species along the forest walking tracks. In fact, Orang Asli, or aborigines, live their traditional way of life in this area. Situated on the way to Cameron Highlands, about 13 km from Tapah town.

Lata Iskandar The Lata Iskandar waterfall, 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 insects and plant life in the world. Traditional earthen ware pottery is crafted at kampung kerayung.

Lata Kinjang Lata Kinjang is located about 18 km from tapah. The main attraction at this waterfall is the impressive series of cascades winding down a 100-metre drop. There are parking bays and eating stalls for picnickers. Visitors may also an orchid garden and a bamboo park..

Lata Sungai Bil Lata Sungai Bil is one of many popular local waterfalls in the state of Perak. This ice-cool mountain stream, dotted with huge rocks and river boulders, is a grand sight to behold, especially from high vantage points off its banks. Visitors usually could not resist the temptation to take a dip in the cold waters of this crystal-clear stream.

Orang Asli Handicraft Centre The orang asli (aborigines) handicraft centre has an assortment of crafts up for sale. The area around is inhabited by the orang asli community whose main source of income is from the sale of traditional handicraft as well as forest produce. Items like wood carvings, wooden blowpipe and traditional rattan fish traps which make unusual souvenirs to take home. Located beside Lata Iskandar, about 22 km after tapah, along the road to cameron Highlands.

Kerian

PLACES OF INTEREST Nature and Adventure

Bukit Merah Lake Town Bukit Merah Laketown is a 1500-acre township-in-the-making integrated with waterfront development. This premier waterfront township in the northern growth triangle is situated in the fast developing linear belt, along the North-South Highway south of Butterworth. It lies near the border of three States, namely Penang, Kedah and Perak. This development is an integrated commercial, leisure, recreational and residential township fronting the 7000-acre fresh water Tasik Bukit Merah (Bukit Merah Lake). Situated off the Bukit Merah Interchange along the North-South Expressway (PLUS), only a mere 35-minute drive from the Penang Bridge.

Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary Located in the Kerian district, Kuala Gula or literally known as the `Sugar Estuary' is famous for the variety of exotic birds that come here to nest. It is also a sanctuary for migratory birds from all over the world. Over 160 species of birds, some of them protected, have been sighted in this area making it a haven for bird watchers. One particular bird species, milky stork, has even made its home here. The best time to visit the bird sanctuary is between the months of September and December when thousands of birds come to rest and feed in the area.The sanctuary is also home to the smooth otter, dusky leaf monkey, long-tailed macaque and the ridgeback dolphin.

Tok Ali Cannon Panglima Tok Mat Ali was a legendary warrior who was famous among the locals in fighting the British. In his struggle for nationalisation, Tok Mat Ali used a very powerful cannon to ward off the advancing British troops into the Kerian district. The cannon was not discovered until 1938, when a group of villagers accidentally dug it out from the ground. Nevertheless, the ravages of time have not left a mark on this mysterious cannon which weighs 150 kilograms and stands at 4.57 metres high. One Interesting fact about the cannon is that it wouldn't budged, not even a single centimetre, making efforts to relocate the cannon to a nearby museum futile. Locals attribute this spectacle as that, 'one that is faithful to its owner'. Situated in the compound of the Kerian District Police Headquarters in Bagan Serai town.

Menderang Menderang is a countryside destination that offers the thrill of the outdoors. The undulating hills, the caves at gua tempurung, mountain adventure on gunung besout, the Sungkai Deer Farms and ostrich farms are some of the attractions of this area. It is also the venue of the Menderang water festival. Accommodation is available at Trolak Country Resort.

Sungkai Deer Farm Sprawled over 100 hectares of land, the deer farm is established and managed by the Wildlife Department. Here, deers of various species are allowed to roam freely in a habitat similar to their own natural environment. The farm jointly set up in 1978 by the State and Federal authorities also provides a reserve for certain bird species and other wildlife, as part of efforts toward conservation and prevention of their extinction. Located at the Manderang vicinity of the Sungkai area.

Perak Tengah - Pasir Salak

PLACES OF INTEREST Nature and Adventure

Dato' Maharaja Lela's Fortress Situated approximately 50 metres from the Pasir Salak Historical Complex. And close to the original official residence of Malay warrior Dato' Maharaja Lela, the structure of the fortress in its original form was basically square, and surrounded by deep drains. The fortress, along with the official home, was burnt to the ground by British colonial forces in retaliation to the killing of the British Resident Birch in 1875. Plans are afoot by the National Museum and Perak State Government t re-construct the residence and the fortress used by Datuk Maharaja Lela.

James W.W. Birch's Grave According to records, James Birch was murdered on the 2nd of November 1875 while he was taking a bath in the Perak River. His corpse was recovered by the British and he was finally laid to rest at what is now Bandar Baru, 5 kilometres from Pasir Salak.

Kutai Houses Within the Pasir Salak Historical Complex are situated two fine examples of traditional Perak Malay houses, popularly known as the "Kutai" Houses ("kutai" is a vernacular title meaning "old" or "ancient"). The structure and constructure of these houses are original and unique, built using only wood, with special joints and grooves but totally without the use of metal, (nails,etc).

Pasir Salak Cultural Centre The Pasir Salak Cultural Centre offers cultural activities such as cultural performances, poetry reading, demonstration of ikatan tengkolok (tying of traditional headgear), and traditional pastimes like congkak (boardgame), main wau (giant kite flying), gasing (top spinning) and sepak takraw (wicker ball game).

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.

Pasir Salak Mosque The original mosque of Pasir Salak was built in November 1929. In May 1964, a section of this mosque was renovated. Renovations were completed in September 19 the same year, with much of its original features preserved.

Perak Darul Ridzuan Warriors' Memorial The monument is actually a gigantic "sundang", type of Malay Sword generally called "kris". It was erected to commemorate the bravery of Datuk Sagor, Datuk Maharaja Lela and their loyal followers who helped to arouse the spirit of nationalism at Pasir Salak. A "sundang" of this type was believed to have been used in the assasination of British Resident James Birch.

Sipuntum's Gravesite Sipuntum was the one who actually carried out the assasination of Resident James Birch, for which he was captured and sentencedto death. His burial site is located about 30 metres from the grounds of the Pasir Salak complex.

The Lela Rentaka Monument "Lela Rentaka" is actually a kind of cannon used by the earlier Malays in their defense against the British in the war that followed the killing of James Birch. There are two such "lela rentaka" on display at the Pasir Salak Historical Complex.

River Terrapin Breeding Project A breeding farm fot 'Tuntung' (river terrapins or Bataqur baska) is located at Bota Kanan, about 40km from Ipoh. Opened in 1967 by the state's Dept of Wildlife and National Parks, the primary aim of this project is the conservation of this species. To date the hatchery at Bota Kanan has released More than 25,000 hatchings into the Perak River. Between November and March, visitors can witness migrating river terrapins laying eggs in the wilds. Accommodation is available in the form of basic chalets.

Cempaka Sari Park Taman Cempaka Sari is a pleasant small park by the Sungai Perak (Perak River). It used to be closely connected to a nearby island but over the years, the wooden bridge linking the island to the riverbank has twice been washed away by flood waters. The island, called Pulau Cempaka Sari, is a wooded and shady haven. From far, a model of Rumah Kutai, a traditional olden Malay house, may been seen on the island. This park took a shot at fame sometime in the 1980s when it was chosen as a location for a French film 'Indochine'. Near the park, there is a rest house located nearby the riverbank. Today, the park serves as a recreational venue for families in the area and a favourite site for festive celebrations and watersports activities.

Manjung - Pangkor Island

PLACES OF INTEREST Nature and Adventure

Batu Bersurat (Sacred Rock) Batu Bersurat literally means 'the Stone of Inscriptions'. On this particular huge bolder are an etching of a tiger carrying a child, two round-shaped leaves along with the letters,'If Carlo 1743' and 'VOC,' an acronym for the Dutch East India Company and two round-shaped leaves.The sketches were believed to be the work of grieving soldiers in memory of a Dutch dignitary's son who went missing whilst playing near the stone in 1743, during the reign of Sultan Muzaffar Syah III (1728-1756). One version of the tale was that some of the Malays and Bugis, who disliked the Dutch so much for ill treating the locals, kidnapped and killed the boy. Another version claimed that a tiger ate the boy. From that day, the rock came to be known as the `Batu Bersurat` or `The Rock of Inscriptions'. The rock measures about 10.7 metre long and 4.6 metre wide and stands at 4.3 metre tall. Located on the beach at Teluk Gedung not far from the Dutch Fort.

Kota Belanda (Dutch Fort) T Teluk Gedung lies the 330-year-old stone foundation of a Dutch Fort built in 1670. It was one of the Dutch strongholds against pirates and local Malays. Actually, during the Dutch occupation in the 17th century, tin supplies from Pangkor and the mainland were stored for protection in this fort. As time goes by, the locals were unhappy with the treatment of the Dutch. So, they managed to destroy the fort sometime in 1690. This is not the end because the Dutch then returned in full force to rebuild the fort. After which, 60 soldiers were commissioned to protect the fort until 1743, when it was finally abandoned after a local warrior, Panglima Kulub, and his followers attacked it. Later in 1973, the National Museum undertook its reconstruction to restore as much as possible the remains of the fort for the benefit of tourists. Located at Teluk Gedung village, slightly south of Pulau Pangkor. Just ask the village folks for directions and they will be just too glad to oblige.

Pangkor Village Before leaving Pangkor Island, one most not forget to visit the Pangkor Village to get yourself some souvenirs and preserved sea food.

Snake Man of Teluk Gedung Another attraction of Teluk Gedung is the Snake Man known as Pak Din. He entertains tourist by charming snakes. Don't forget to visit Pak Din for an Interesting snake charming session.

Lumut Lumut is a strategic and Interesting town situated at the mouth of a river and hidden by the Pangkor Island. In its background, lies a hill which is known as bukit engku busu which is about 1,087 feet from sea level. Lumut is the administrative centre of Manjung district and is one of the oldest towns where colonial buildings and others remains are preserved and still in use.

Lumut clock tower The clock tower in Lumut town was built in 1960 by the malaysian flour mill company as a symbol of progress. It is one of the landmarks of the town.

Larut Matang - Taiping

PLACES OF INTEREST Nature and Adventure

Batu Kurau Famous for its Durian orchard, a popular Malaysian fruit, the types found here are renowned for its quality and taste unsurpassed anywhere in Malaysia.

British Resident's Residence (1877) Built in 1877, it was the residence of Sir Hugh Low, Perak's second Resident. It was built in Taiping due to the town's role at that era as the British Administrative Center. The residence proceeds to be the formal residence of other successive Residents of Perak. It also made Taiping to be the first town to have a formal residence for a British Resident.Presently only the house posts marks the site of the residence. A rest house was built behind the historical site. It is located at Jalan Pekeliling.

Bukit Gantang Besides its durian orchards, Bukit Gantang is also renowned for its legendary dato' panglima Bukit Gantang. A powerful figure in the larut matang area before the resurgence of mentri larut and the expansion of its influence over the district.

Bukit Larut / Maxwell Hill Malaysia's oldest hill resort is located on Bukit Larut (formerly called Maxwell Hill), a mere 10 minutes drive from Taiping. Situated at an altitude of 1034 metres, it is accessilbe only by four-wheel drive vehicles. The road up twists and turns through tropical virgin jungle, and fresh green fragrance and cool air greeting you as you ascend. At the summit you are treated to a spectacular view of the Larut Resthouse or at the bungalows located at the top of the hill.

Burmese Pool The first swimming pool to be built in malaysia in 1870 has a unique attribute due to its source of water for the pool. The water is brought in from the Bukit Larut. Its fresh and cooling chlorine-free water has been the attraction of the pool all these years.

Chinese Tombs A chinese cemetery was originally located on this hillock. Two remaining tombstones, dating from circa 1869 and belonging to members of the chung lineage of the hakka ethnic group are still found at the foot of the hill facing the esplanade. Located at the esplanade road, Taiping.

Coronation park the first amusement park in the fms opened in the 1920s when run run shaw of shaw brothers fame came from hong kong with two reels of silent movies to entertain the miners. It was renamed coronation park after the coronation of king george v. Located at theatre road, taiping.

Fort carnavon the fort was built by the perak prison convicts for the use of the perak armed police in 1881, under the supervision of col. Walker. The brick magazine was completed in 1885 and two years later, a guardroom and gun-shed were erected. The fort was named after the earl of carnarvon, secretary of state for the colonies (1874-1878). Located at the main road, taiping.

General hospital founded in 1880 as yeng wah (chinese pauper) hospital by the mining community in the face of the outbreak of beri-beri, it was taken over by the government and relocated to this site in 1881. A large cluster of buildings survives from the 1880s. Located along the main road, taiping.

Guan hin chan, 19 cross street no. 4 this well preserved building was the premise of a cigar factory started by burmese chinese. In the 1930s, it employed burmese women to roll cigars from moulmein tobacco. During the japanese occupation, the occupying forces used it to store tin ore.

Jebong forest reserve this forest reserve at kuala sepetang showcases the picturesque mangrove swamp which harbours a unique variety of birds and animals. Just follow the wooden walkway available throughout the forest. But if you want to explore further into the forest, make sure you obtain a permit from the perak forestry department.

Kapitan chung keng kooi's townhouse a prominent tin-miner and leader of the taiping hakka community, chung keng kooi (1829-1901) was also a kapitan china of perak and sat on the perak state council. His eldest son chung ah yong, who resided here, was a member of the taiping sanitary board and "all the important racing clubs". He employed a european trainer for his prize-winning race horses and maintained his stables at 12,000 dollars a year. Located at barrack road, taiping.

King Edward VII School The central school, which started in 1883, was the first english school in the malay States. It was renamed the King Edward VII School when the present building was opened in 1905. The angsana or 'flame of the forest' trees were planted in 1910 and enhanced the school grounds as one of the most picturesque in the country. The school excelled in sports, especially football, rugby, hockey and athletics. During the japanese occupation, the school was the base of the garrison commander who converted the classrooms into torture chambers and dug up the playgrounds to grow food. Located at station road in Taiping town.

Kota Mosque Built in 1897, Masjid Kota is the oldest brick mosque in Taiping with an intriguing six-sided facade. It was originally a Hanafi sect mosque, which was patronised by the Indian Muslim community of Kota. In the early 20th century, it was handed over to the Malay community and called Masjid Melayu (Malay Mosque). Within the old burial ground is the mausoleum of a learned scholar called Sheikh Makhbuli.

Kota Ngah Ibrahim Historical Complex Situated in matang, it was built in 1854 over 2 acres as the formal residence of ngah ibrahim. Over the years it has served as various establishments such as larut administration centre, as a court for the prosecution of dato' maharaja lela and dato' sagor for the killing of j.w.w. Birch, as the residence for captain speedy the then assistant resident, the first teacher's training college, the first national school, matang primary school, japanese headquarters and presently as th Kota Ngah Ibrahim Historical Complex.

Lady Treacher Girls' School The first girls' school in the Malay States was established by the Perak Government in 1889. The Methodists later took over the school and renamed it after the British Resident's wife. Soon after the present school building was completed in November 1941, the Japanese Occupation army requisitioned it for their barracks.

Long Jaafar Old Fort Formerly the stronghold of Long Jaafar, the explorer of tin ore in Larut, to this dayruins of the old fort is still visible. There is also the mausoleum of Long Jaafar within the compound.

Malay States Guides Barracks Built in the 1880s, this was the headquarters of the Perak Armed Police, later called the Malay States Guides. Today, it is the most intact, historically important military complex of its kind in Malaysia. The statue of Colonel Walker originally stood above the porch of the Regimental Quarter-Guard House, which faces the Esplanade. Located along the Main Road, Taiping.

Matang Mangrove Forest A photographer's dream this virtually virgin mangrove swamp is a beautiful natural splendour any photographer would naturally relish the opportunity to capture moments on film. Just looking around and immersing oneself with the glory of God's gift is enough to intrigue most professionals. Covering over an area nearly 5000 hectares, this natural recreational site presents one with the opportunity to be alone with nature. Besides the Kuala Sepetang mangrove swamp, there is also a natural centuries-old site on an island covering over 100 acres fronting the Port Weld. Tel : 05-807 2768 Fax : 05-806 7763

Ngah Ibrahim Fort This fort was built in 1857 by ngah ibrahim. The son of long jaafar, ngah ibrahim was appointed a majorchief - orang kaya menteri by the sultan of Perak in 1863. Ngah ibrahim was given authority to administer the whole of larut and the chinese tin miner who were working there. The chinese tin miner were divided into two main clans-the hai san and ghee hin. Frighting often broke out between the two clans. Ngah ibrahim supported the hai san. When the hai san was defeated, the ghee hin attacked Ngah Ibrahim Fort and later house occupied it. The ngah ibrahim's large house were badly damaged. The british intervened in Perak in 1874 and peace was restored but ngah ibrahim was returned to matang and the fort has remained a historic ruin.

Ng Boo Bee Fountain The cast iron fountain, made in the "Penang Foundry", originally stood in the Taiping Market. Ng Boo Bee, leader of the Taiping Hokkien community, a prominent tin-miner, and philanthropist and a member of the Taiping Sanitary Board donated it.

Old Kota Mosque The oldest mosque in Taiping, with an intriguing six-sided facade, was built in brick in 1897. It was originally a Hanafi mosque used by the Indian Muslim community of Kota. In the early 20th century it was given over to the Malay community and called the 'Malay mosque' (Masjid Melayu). Within the old burial ground is the mausoleum of a learned man called Sheikh Makhbuli.Located at Mosque Road, Taiping.

Old Police Station The police station, initially built of timber in 1881, lies at a point about equidistant from the Chinese Theatre, the wet market and other Shopping locations in Taiping town. The fortified clock tower, with chamfered slits for guns, was probably erected some years later. The police station doubled as a fire station where the first fire brigade in the Federated Malay States was formed. The brigade made up of members of the Perak Armed Police and later the Malay States Guides.

Old Saints Church The first Anglican church in the Malay States, opened in 1886. The timber building was designed by G.A Lefroy and the site donated by W.V. Drummond, a planter from Shanghai. In 1898, the graveyard was already "much besprinkled with the tombstones of many a young man stricken down in the heyday of youth, or British official who, after spending the best years of his life in the service of the State, has failed to gain his pension, and now lies buried here..."Located along the Main Road, Taiping. Peking hotel built in 1929, it was formerly the rubber dealer's association. During the japanese occupation, it was the notorious headquarters of the kampeitei (japanese military police). Located at 2 jalan idris, taiping. Perak museum (1883) the perak museum, built in 1883 and completed three years later, is the oldest museum in the peninsular malaysia. Extensions to the building were subsequently made in 1900. The objective behind its set up was to establish a repository of malaysia's rich cultural heritage. It is also an excellent place to begin an in-depth study of the state of perak and its past achievements. in the early days, the museum gave greater emphasis to the natural sciences, especially flora and fauna that had economic significance. It was only much later that the museum began to document the material culture and the life of the people of malaysia such as collection of ancient weapons, aboriginal implements, ornaments and archeological treasures. At present, there are three large collections featuring anthropology, zoology and local history with a total of over 3000 artifacts. Located about 2 km from taiping town and 1 km from the taiping lake gardens. Port weld (kuala sepetang) once the busiest port in the region, the facilities provided are mainly for exporting of processed tin ores. Opened in 1877 as the gateway for cargo ships, port weld is now called kuala sepetang. No longer a main port, it is mainly for fishing boats. Post and telegraph office the first post office in the fms, built in 1884, to replace an earlier timber building. The post from taiping was carried by a relay of runners (dak) and ponies. Located at station road, taiping. Prison (1885) built in 1885, the taiping prison still being used to this date marks the first prison in malaysia. The need of such establishment arises due to the rising rate of crimes during that era. The fighting between chinese gangs at the mines led to existence of the present taiping prison which has remain virtually unchanged except for some sight alterations to suit the needs of today's security system. Pulau tiga handicraft centre pulau tiga, literally means three islands, is located in the central part of perak. The area has traditionally been noted for its local people's handicraft skills and products. In recognition of these skills, the centre was established to further develop better quality handicraft products, as well as to display and to market them. Among the products available at the centre are porcelain and clay ware, gold thread embroidery, intricate weaveworks and the ultimate 'labu' (traditional clay water pitchers). The embossed designs of labu sayong produced here are among the best and attractive in the region.