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So far felicia has created 1940 blog entries.

February 2024

January 2024

Famous Names (18)

By |2024-01-18T16:06:32+08:00January 18th, 2024|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, People|

….born in Singapore in 1909, went to an Anglo-Chinese School in Swatow, China, before returning to study at the Raffles Institute at age 16. He was actively supporting the Chinese by organising relief funds and the boycott of Japanese goods after the Japanese attacked in 1937. His commitment to Chinese resistance increased with the Japanese invasion of Malaya. Just before the fall of Singapore he and other community leaders who were targeted by the Japanese sailed via Sumatra for India. There he was recruited by Force 136… (read more here)

 

Here’s a photo of the famous Colonel Lim Bo Seng (in case some of you were wondering what he looked like).

December 2023

November 2023

Perak Academy Talk (25th Series)

By |2023-11-01T15:45:26+08:00November 1st, 2023|Categories: Perak Academy Talk|

 

Coming up this 18th November 2023 is a talk by Dr Suriati bt Ahmad (a Senior Lecturer at UiTM, Seri Iskandar, Perak). The talk is entitled: Reconsidering the World Heritage Potential For Kinta Valley Post-Industrial Mining Landscape, Malaysia.

The talk will begin at 10.30am, at Mamut Room (1 Jalan Lasam, 30350, Ipoh).

 

To book a seat or for more information, do contact Perak Academy:

contact@perakacademy.com  /  016-4123742

October 2023

September 2023

August 2023

Perak Academy Talk: The Universal Relevance Of Gandhi As A Principle Of Life

By |2023-08-15T17:21:46+08:00August 15th, 2023|Categories: Identify Photographs, Perak Academy Talk|

Perak Academy presents: The Universal Relevance Of Gandhi As A Principle Of Life by Prof Gollanapalli Prasad.

This talk will be at Mamut Meeting Room (1st floor, no.1 Jalan Lasam, Greentown, Ipoh), at 7.45pm on Monday 21st August 2023.

 

 

For more details, please contact Perak Academy:

016-4123724   or    contact@perakacademy.com

 

“Mr Addis takes over”

By |2023-08-04T15:25:53+08:00August 4th, 2023|Categories: history, People|

According to this article (from Times of Malaya & Straits Echo, dated 16 September 1950), Mr Addis took over from Sir Ralph Hone – as Deputy Commissioner-General for Colonial Affairs South-East Asia.

Major-General Ralph Hone was once the Chief Civil Affairs Officer responsible for the Peninsula; this was of course during the British Military Administration.

July 2023

Back in 1942…

By |2023-07-10T14:51:24+08:00July 10th, 2023|Categories: history, Ipoh Town|Tags: , |

According to The Yamato News, back in February 1942 a new hospital was opened in Ipoh. Based on the above article, this move was started by the Indian Committee (assisted by Dr G. S. Venketesan) and backed by the local representatives of the Nippon Government.

Could this have been the General Hospital in Ipoh (Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, as it is now known as)?

June 2023

Did you know?

By |2023-06-09T17:02:54+08:00June 10th, 2023|Categories: history, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: |

Here’s some trivia for you, taken from The Yamato News. This newspaper dates back to 13th February 2602 (which actually means 13th February 1942).

We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this with us.

 

If you’re wondering about the strange date (2602), then click here for the explanation.

“white area” ?

By |2023-06-09T16:45:52+08:00June 9th, 2023|Categories: childhood, history, Identify Photographs, Memories|

This photo was not taken in Ipoh, but it is rather interesting. I’d like to draw your attention to the sign, which simply reads as: “You are now entering Malacca Settlement White Area”.

Did we have “white areas” in Ipoh too at some point?

 

We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this photo with us.

Daulat Tuanku!

By |2023-06-02T15:11:19+08:00June 4th, 2023|Categories: festivals/celebrations, greetings|

In conjunction with the birthday of His Majesty Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah, the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia.

Daulat Tuanku!

May 2023

Chingay Procession

By |2023-05-26T15:37:50+08:00May 26th, 2023|Categories: childhood, festivals/celebrations, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories|

The activity appears to be centred around the England Dobi Shop where the procession may well have stopped to give a demonstration, and there are large numbers of spectators in attendance. Numerous vehicles in the street are probably being delayed by the festivities and have formed a traffic jam.

 

I wonder which part of town this was….

Coffee Shop Licence, from 1963

By |2023-05-24T16:06:23+08:00May 24th, 2023|Categories: food, Identify Photographs, tourism|

This is a licence from the Municipality of Ipoh to Hung Chin Ling, i.c. PK.028579 of K-2, Kepayang, Fair Park, Ipoh who has a coffee shop. The license, of course, was issued in accordance to the Sales of Food and Drugs Ordinance 1952. There were also the following conditions, which had to be adhered to:

  • This bill should be presented intact for payment to the Municipal Cashier at the Municipal Office between the hours of 8.30a.m and 3p.m on any working day except Saturday when the hours are from 8.30a.m to 11.30a.m
  • Cheques are to be crossed and made payable to the Municipality of Ipoh
  • All queries should be addressed to the Municipal Treasurer, Municipality of Ipoh,
    P. O. Box 1009, Ipoh
  • No pin tables are allowed on the licensed premises and failure to observe this condition may entail cancellation of licence by the Council. 

 

I wonder if Hung’s coffee shop is still in business…

The London to Sydney Marathon

By |2023-05-17T16:18:31+08:00May 17th, 2023|Categories: Events, history, Identify Photographs, Sports, tourism|

This is a photograph of one of the cars which was participating in the London to Sydney Marathon. The drivers were Rick Bates and Jenny Brittan. The cars were gathered in the centre of Ipoh, near the Municipal Building (Dataran Dewan Bandaraya Ipoh) before they took off on the next stage of the rally. One of the sponsors was Trans World Events…..(read more here)

 

 

To All Mothers!

By |2023-05-12T17:02:12+08:00May 14th, 2023|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Thank you for being a source of strength, guidance, happiness, and inspiration to our families every day.

Our world is a brighter place with you in it!

Happy Mother’s Day!

Happy Labour Day!

By |2023-04-28T16:45:10+08:00May 1st, 2023|Categories: greetings|

Here’s a shoutout to ALL our friends in the workforce. If you’ve already left the workforce, don’t worry…this day is for you too 🙂

April 2023

Hello? Is it me you’re looking for?

By |2023-04-12T15:25:13+08:00April 12th, 2023|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, ipoh, Memories|Tags: |

We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this photograph with us. He also gave us the names of the two pretty ladies in the foreground:

“1 November 1953 : The attractive Naseh sisters, Dewi (nearest camera) and Jamilah, “Hello Girls” in the Ipoh telephone exchange, find little time for chit-chat in their busy six-hour day shifts.”

Army Kinema Corporation?

By |2023-04-05T16:21:30+08:00April 9th, 2023|Categories: history, Memories, movies|

This booklet published for the use of military personnel only in May 1967 contains movies that will be screened in numerous military cinemas for example The Leowen in Terendak Camp, New Globe, and Globe. This booklet also has all the information on the day and the time of the movie and the British Forces Broadcasting Service’s English programmes for April. It also contains advertisements for Benson & Hedges cigarettes and Asahi Pentax cameras.

 

 

March 2023

…that famous, tragic, romance…

By |2023-03-31T16:37:15+08:00March 31st, 2023|Categories: childhood, concerts, Identify Photographs, Memories, People|Tags: |

Some of you may have already guessed this play, merely by the “balcony scene”. 🙂

This play was organised by none other than the ACS Music and Drama Society, back in 1976. Just to refresh your memories (if you’ve watched it), the leading roles were played by Tan Seow Heng (Juliet) and Emmet O’Sullivan (Romeo).

 

We thank Ong Su-Ming for sharing this photograph with us.

Southern Soap Factory

By |2023-03-24T16:52:51+08:00March 24th, 2023|Categories: Ipoh Town|

Yes, folks. From the above receipt, we once had a soap factory. The office was at No. 80 Hugh Low Street (which is now Kedai Emas Kah Weng, if I’m not mistaken), while the factory was at New Pasir Puteh.

Wonder what’s become of the soap factory…

Perak Academy Talk – “Perak Royalty & Nobility – Its History, Succession, Etiquette and Decorations”

By |2023-03-01T16:03:58+08:00March 1st, 2023|Categories: Events, history, Perak Academy Talk|

Mark your calendars. Perak Academy will be hosting a talk on The Perak Royalty & Nobility, on 20th March 2023.

The talk will be at 8pm, at Mamut Meeting Room (1 Jalan Lasam, 30350, Ipoh).
Light refreshments will be served at 7pm.

For more information, call Perak Academy at 016-412 3742

or email contact@perakacademy.com

 

February 2023

January 2023

December 2022

Police Quarters

By |2022-12-29T11:09:49+08:00December 29th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs, Natural Heritage|

No, this is not an estate manager’s bungalow. Neither is it a holiday resort. This is the Perak Armed Police Commissioner’s Quarters. We thank our donor Chee Ong Ngai for this picture.

(This could be Taiping, but I could be wrong. What do you think?)

‘Mysterious’ mansion

By |2022-12-05T17:08:31+08:00December 5th, 2022|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Memories, Natural Heritage|

We thank Harvant Lisa Harper for sharing this picture with us. She also had this to say:

This is the army regimen house by the Ipoh Specialist Center. It was at one time occupied by the British. My dad was the guard there. Then the Japanese took over. Before they got there, he told me that he destroyed all the crystals that the British left behind so the Japanese could not hear what the British were talking about and also hid a pistol that was left behind.
 
 
Just in case you’re wondering if this building still exists….we do have a more recent picture of it here.

November 2022

Guess Who?

By |2022-11-25T16:47:31+08:00November 26th, 2022|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, People|

Does he look familiar? No? What if I told you there’s a building named after him, along Dairy Road (now known as Jalan Raja Musa Mahadi)?

In case you’re still puzzled, this gentleman is none other than Prof Dato’ (Dr) Ungku Omar bin Ahmad. We don’t know much about his personal life. However, thanks to Prof Dr Zainur Rashid Zainuddin, we do have a short summary of his contribution towards the local medical field.

Restored!

By |2022-11-24T15:50:09+08:00November 24th, 2022|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Natural Heritage, People, Restoration|

This house (in Pasir Salak, Perak) was said to be built in the 1980s, to resemble the house of the late Dato Maharajalela. It later fell into a sorry state (as seen above).

But, the good news is……it was later restored!

If anyone could shed more light on this restoration project, we’d love to hear from you.

We thank Tomb Raider Hunter for these pictures 🙂

Dirgahayu Tuanku

By |2022-11-03T16:08:41+08:00November 4th, 2022|Categories: greetings|

 

On the occasion of the birthday of HM Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah.

Dirgahayu Tuanku!

October 2022

…no easy feat…

By |2022-10-21T16:08:09+08:00October 21st, 2022|Categories: childhood, Events, festivals/celebrations, Ipoh Town, Memories, tourism|

No, this isn’t part of a circus troupe. Neither is this a Chinese New Year celebration (yes, I know some of you spotted the ‘lion’ in the background).

This is actually part of the Nine Emperor Gods Festival parade. We thank our donor – Ann Kesselring Hamon – for sharing this with us.

Here’s another picture from that parade.

Famous Names (17)

By |2022-10-12T16:49:58+08:00October 12th, 2022|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, People|

First he practised medicine in Penang before he moved to Ipoh in 1912, becoming the first Asian with a Western medical degree in Perak. His new clinic was at Tatlock Street; two decades later, a new central market was built in the area, which helps explain why Tatlock Street is now called Hala Pasar Baru.

He then served the Kinta Sanitary Board (the precursor of Ipoh Municipal Council) before he joined the Perak Chinese Maternity Hospital as Medical Superintendent in 1922. He held that post for over thirty years and was the driving force in obtaining funds and government approval for establishing the new Perak Chinese Maternity Hospital at its present site in Jalan Kampar in 1937. (read more here)

 

Yes, we’re talking about Dato Dr Khong Kam Tak, CBE, JP.

An Interesting School Trip

By |2022-10-07T16:31:47+08:00October 7th, 2022|Categories: childhood, history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, mission schools, People|

Is it a bird…is it a plane…..? No, they are most likely staring at the Birch Clock Tower. 

The gentleman (holding some papers) is none other than Rev J Appaduray. The boys in the background are students from St Michael’s Insitution.

Here’s another picture of the group:

(read the full story here)

September 2022

Lions Club Souvenir

By |2022-09-30T16:58:26+08:00September 30th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Have you heard of the Lions Club? From what we know:

The first Lions Club in Malaysia, the Lions Club of Kuala Lumpur (Host), was opened on the 18th of February 1959. District 308 of the Lions and Leo Club encompasses 3 countries, namely Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei. Within the district itself, there are 4 sub-districts – 308 A1 (Singapore), 308A2 (East Malaysia and Brunei), 308 B1 (Johor, Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan, Malacca, Negeri Sembilan and Kuala Lumpur) and 308 B2 (Perlis, Kedah, Penang, Perak, Selangor and 2 clubs in Cameron Highlands, Pahang). (read more here)

QSL Cards?

By |2022-09-28T15:28:57+08:00September 28th, 2022|Categories: history, Identify Photographs|

During the early days of radio broadcasting, the ability for a radio set to receive distant signals was a source of pride for many consumers and hobbyists. Listeners would mail “reception reports” to radio broadcasting stations in hopes of getting a written letter to officially verify they had heard a distant station. As the volume of reception reports increased, stations took to sending post cards containing a brief form that acknowledged reception. Collecting these cards became popular with radio listeners in the 1920s and 1930s, and reception reports were often used by early broadcasters to gauge the effectiveness of their transmissions.

The concept of sending a post card to verify reception of a station (and later two-way contact between them) may have been independently invented several times. The earliest reference seems to be a card sent in 1916 from 8VX in Buffalo, New York to 3TQ in Philadelphia, (in those days ITU prefixes were not used). The standardized card with callsign, freqPennsylvania uency, date, etc. may have been developed in 1919 by C.D. Hoffman, 8UX, in Akron, Ohio. In Europe, W.E.F. “Bill” Corsham, 2UV, first used a QSL when operating from Harlesden, England in 1922. [Wikipedia]

 

This card was produced by Sergeant Leese to mark the 300th anniversary of his regiment which was celebrated in Ipoh. A member of the Malayan Amateur Radio Transmitters Society the card records his contact with call-sign MP4BDC at 2000 on 1st October 1961.

An Old Passport

By |2022-10-03T16:05:18+08:00September 23rd, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Remember what your old passports looked like, back in the 1960s and 70s?

Now that international borders have been opened, many of you would want to travel. Make sure your passport is up to date…

‘makan’ time

By |2022-09-21T10:33:50+08:00September 21st, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs, Memories|

I’m going to go out on a limb, and say that this picture probably dates back to the 1950s? Could be later, though.

We’d love to hear your thoughts – especially if you can translate the caption 🙂

248, Brewster Road

By |2022-09-02T16:13:15+08:00September 2nd, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Here’s a receipt from Looi Teik Lan Service Station. The address is given as 248 Brewster Road, Ipoh.

A quick search on Google Maps showed that the above address is now the Petron petrol station. Does anyone know if the premise still belongs to the same owner (of Looi Teik Lan service station)? Or, perhaps the ownership changed hands?

 

August 2022

Japanese HQ at Anderson School?

By |2022-08-10T14:26:53+08:00August 10th, 2022|Categories: history, Ipoh Town, Memories, mission schools|

This photograph shows Fujiwara Iwaichi with Captain M. Akram, adjutant to General Mohan Singh, at Fujiwara Kikan headquarters at the Anderson School, Ipoh, on 5th January 1942.

The military headquarters was established by Fujiwara Kikan, the military intelligence agency, on New Year’s Day 1942. The building also served as the headquarters of Indian Independence League (IIL), the Indian National Army (INA), the Kesatuan Melayu Muda (KMM), and the Sumatran Youth Association.

Goodbye to a Legend

By |2022-08-04T14:42:27+08:00August 4th, 2022|Categories: childhood, history, Identify Photographs, Memories, orbituary, People|

source: BWF Virtual Museum

With a heavy heart, we say goodbye to Dato’ Ng Boon Bee DPTJ AMN. He was a Malaysian badminton player, whose success in doubles earned him recognition as one of greatest doubles players in badminton history. 

Ng Boon Bee is probably the finest sportsman to come out of SMI, being one of the stars of the Malaysian Badminton team from 1960 onwards.

Some of you may remember that year, when the Thomas Cup was paraded through SMI.

In partnership with Tan Yee Khan and later P Gunalan, he won doubles titles in all the big national and international tournaments, including the All England Doubles title twice and the Malaysian title six times. 

 

Our condolences to his family, as well as his ‘family’ in the sporting arena.

July 2022

Becoming a Citizen

By |2022-07-29T17:45:05+08:00July 29th, 2022|Categories: history, Identify Photographs|

This particular document is a certificate of Registration which declares that from the 22nd of August 1958 onwards, Madam Ong would be a citizen of the Federation of Malaya under Article 17. The officer which signed this certificate on behalf of the registration authority was H. Perera as stated in the document. (more details here)

Coming to a theatre near you!

By |2022-07-25T15:23:41+08:00July 25th, 2022|Categories: childhood, history, Ipoh Town, Memories, movies, tourism|

The month of August is usually known as “bulan Merdeka” (Merdeka/Independence Month). But did you also know that the earliest cinematograph first came to Ipoh in August 1906?

Initially the cinematograph market was monopolized by one company, the Matsuo Japanese Cinematograph Company, who used to hold nightly shows in a tent for 7-weeks running, moving from city to city. The following year however, he had competition in the form of 3 other cinematograph companies, each employing different novelties to attract crowds. (read more here)

The First Battalion Perak Sikhs

By |2022-07-20T10:53:43+08:00July 20th, 2022|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Natural Heritage|

The photograph actually shows the ‘First Battalion Perak Sikhs’, the armed military arm of the Perak Police Force.

The Battalion had its roots in the ‘Perak Armed Force’ which was a mix of races (Sikhs, Punjabi, Malays and Chinese), first commanded by Captain Swinburne and from 1879 by Major R S F Walker CMG.  The ‘Armed Force’ was disbanded in early 1884 and ‘The First Battalion Perak Sikhs’, was established on 15 May 1884 to replace them. (read more here)

 

A Garden No More…

By |2022-07-15T16:31:40+08:00July 15th, 2022|Categories: childhood, Identify Photographs, ipoh, Memories, Natural Heritage, nature, tourism|

This was what the Japanese Garden (sponsored by the Perak Turf Club) once looked like. Of course, this picture was taken back in the 1980s. Sadly, this lovely tourist spot fell under poor maintenance and neglect over the years. It even fell prey to vandals 🙁

I don’t know what has become of this place today. 

However, there was another Japanese Garden built at D R Seenivasagam Park (formerly known as Coronation Park). This garden seems to have survived over the years, and has also been given a ‘facelift’ of sorts. (read more about it here)

 

Unique Ashtray

By |2022-07-08T16:34:40+08:00July 8th, 2022|Categories: artifacts, Identify Photographs|

What’s so special about this ashtray, you ask? Well, it’s made from an artillery shell!

We believe it’s from 1942; there were some numbers engraved at the bottom, which has faded over the years.

Ahmad Noor @ Halaloedin Hamzah

By |2022-07-01T11:19:41+08:00July 1st, 2022|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, People|

Have you heard of Ahmad Noor? Perhaps you knew him as Halaloedin Hamzah?

He was a Mandailing from the Dutch East Indies who free-lanced for Kompas in the early days of his career. He fled and sought refuge in Malaya, when the Dutch authorities cracked down on railway strikers in 1929, in which he was involved, and staged a mass arrest. He later changed his name to Ahmad Noor Abdul Shukor, and had a short stint with Saudara in Penang. (read more here)

The picture (taken from the Kinta Valley book) isn’t that clear…but I believe Ahmad Noor is probably the gentleman standing in the middle.

June 2022

The Aeroplane Comes to Ipoh!

By |2022-06-27T16:41:22+08:00June 27th, 2022|Categories: childhood, Events, history, ipoh, Memories, tourism|

The people of Ipoh had an opportunity to witness an aeroplane for the first time on July 1 1911! G P Kuller – one of the earliest aviators – staged a 4-day flight exhibition in Ipoh.

Thousands congregated at the race course, with 150 Europeans occupying the 1st and 2nd class seats. The 3rd and 4th class ticket-holders were largely Asian, while an even larger crowd assembled outside on Tambun Road. (read more here)

Do you recall the first time you boarded a plane?

Canning Garden Estate Ltd

By |2022-06-22T16:56:57+08:00June 22nd, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

This receipt no. 627, dated 14th June 1957 was issued by Canning Garden Estate Ltd. to acknowledge the payment of $1000 deposit for the purchase of a property Block L No. 17 Type TH2 house at Canning Garden Estate, Ipoh by Miss Wong and Madam Chang. It was signed by the manager of Canning Garden Estate Ltd. and carries a 6 cents Malaya stamp. 

 

Just curious….what is a Type TH2 House? (And, where was Block L?)

22 Hugh Low Street

By |2022-06-20T15:58:14+08:00June 20th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

There was once a shop called Wing Sang Hong Sdn Bhd, at 22 Hugh Low Street. According to the above receipt, a transaction took place in the 1980s. I don’t know what has happened to this business (nor do I know what business it was).

In its place today is a branch of the Sai Baba Society (picture source: Google).

Gone…but not forgotten…

By |2022-06-14T14:37:12+08:00June 14th, 2022|Categories: Events, history, Memories, orbituary|

The Gurkhas from Nepal were an integral part of the British Army as they fought side by side during the difficult periods of Malayan history, which included conflict against the Japanese troops in World War Two, the communist insurgents in the emergency era and the Confrontation Period with Indonesia in Borneo.

Each year on the second Saturday in June, a remembrance service takes place at this well kept cemetery where around 100 Gurkhas (soldiers and families) are laid to rest. Of these, 28 were from the British’s Second Royal Rangers Regiment.

 

We thank Ramadas G. Retnam for sharing this picture with us.

Daulat Tuanku

By |2022-06-03T11:22:39+08:00June 5th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

On the occasion of His Majesty’s birthday, DYMM Seri Paduka Baginda Yang Di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah.

May 2022

Somewhere in Kuala Kangsar

By |2022-05-16T10:34:29+08:00May 16th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

No, this is not a creepy, haunted mansion. It was once owned by Dato Setia (from what our donor tells us). It was also once used as an Islamic School (either before or after the Japanese Occupation in Malaya).

We thank Eugene Lee for this gem.

Express Mail

By |2022-05-13T11:27:27+08:00May 13th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Not too long ago (in the 1990s), the Perak Postal Services Department started a special express letter service between Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur. There were two dispatches daily except on Sundays and public holidays and letters would reach the same day. The letters will be given special treatment and sent by the first available means. The fee charged is $1.50 excluding postage.

 

April 2022

Perak Acedemy presents…

By |2022-04-26T16:31:36+08:00April 26th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Dr Wu Lien-Teh Education Society Malaysia and Wu Lien-Teh Institute, Harbin Medical University, China would like to invite you to a Zoom Webinar.

Date: Apr 28, 2022
Time:01:00 PM – 03:00 PM Kuala Lumpur
Tittle: Dr Wu Lien-Teh International Conference 2022

Register in advance for this webinar:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bMrsXp6vTn-dVUqd9lY8lQ

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Dr Wu Lien-Teh International Conference 2022, which is held to commemorate the 111th Anniversary of The International Plague Conference, will be officiated by YB En Khairy Jamaluddin, Minister of Health, Malaysia and chaired by Prof. Dr Wang Chen, President of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China. The objectives of the Conference are to promote the legacies of Dr Wu Lien-Teh and to share knowledge on how the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic has drawn lessons and experiences from measures adopted by Dr Wu Lien-Teh in combating the 1910 Manchurian Plague.

Make Way!

By |2022-04-20T15:32:12+08:00April 20th, 2022|Categories: Events, history, Memories|

No, this is not a scene from the floods 😉

It is in fact an entourage crossing the Perak River. This picture was taken in 1913, and can be found in the G.C.V.O. booklet. The booklet records the celebration week that to place to mark the award of the Sultan of Perak with the Royal Victorian Order (Grand Cross of the Victorian Order, or G.C.V.O.), which carries the title Sir.

The second elephant, the Sultan’s Elephant, carried Captain Oliver – who conveyed the Insignia to His Excellency the High Commissioner.

170 years!

By |2022-04-06T10:41:27+08:00April 6th, 2022|Categories: childhood, history, Identify Photographs, Memories, mission schools, Natural Heritage|

The above badge has the words “Christian Brothers’ Schools” and “Signum Fidei” clearly printed on it, one at the bottom of the badge and the other at the top. In between there is an image of Peninsula Malaysia as well as a figure of a Catholic Brother. At the top end of the image of Peninsula Malaysia the numbers “1852” can be seen while at the lower end the numbers “1952” are printed.

We’re featuring this badge, to commemorate 170 years of the La Salle Brothers‘ legacy 🙂

March 2022

Heritage…abandoned

By |2022-03-16T15:56:37+08:00March 16th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs, Natural Heritage|

We thank Eugene Lee for sharing these pictures with us. This is said to be the Royal English School, in Batu Gajah. Probably dating back to 1916. In Eugene’s words, “It’s now left half abandoned and most of the building is left empty. The beams at the porch have cracks in them that need to be rectified“.

An Interesting Postcard

By |2022-03-07T15:38:21+08:00March 7th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

The picture shows a Chinese Hawker peddling medicines while sitting cross-legged in the street, in front of the 5 foot way. Behind him there is a clock shop and to his right what would appear to be a hardware shop or general store…

I wonder…was this a common sight back in the day?

 

A Memorable Speech

By |2022-03-03T15:30:33+08:00March 3rd, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

According to The Straits Echo & Times of Malaya, dated Monday 15th of March 1954, Tungku Abdul Rahman (President of UMNO), Dato Sir Cheng-lock Tan (President of MCA), and Mr K.L Devaser (leader of MIC) addressed over 500 members of the Perak State Alliance at the Yue Hua School building in Brewster Road. (read more here)

Anyone know where Yue Hua School was?

February 2022

Travelling via Elephant

By |2022-02-22T14:43:52+08:00February 23rd, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

We have here a picture from Conrad Presgrave-Payne – the grandson of Sir R G Watson. The estimated date is 1914, when Sir R G Watson was on a tour of Perak.

Anyone here travel via elephant before? I haven’t…but I have sat on a ostrich once 🙂

…and on to sports news…

By |2022-02-17T11:58:12+08:00February 18th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

The Straits Times on Thursday 25th of February 1954, while covering the Hussars Cup, reported that St. Michael’s Institution (SMI) whipped visitors Guru Nanak Institution six-nil in a first round tie in the Perak inter-school knockout soccer competition. In another first round tie, home side Anderson School trounced Junior Technical Trade School five-nil.

 

Another British Resident of Perak

By |2022-02-07T15:51:39+08:00February 7th, 2022|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, People|

Here’s a picture of the Hon. Mr R. G. Watson, British Resident of Perak. This picture was taken from the G.C.V.O. Week booklet, published around 1914.

This booklet is an account of the celebrations at Kuala Kangsar from 21st-28th September 1913, to mark the presentation to His Highness the Sultan of Perak of the insignia of the G.C.V.O. (Grand Cross of the Victorian Order).

We thank Winson Saw for sharing this with us.

Movie Time!

By |2022-02-02T12:50:42+08:00February 2nd, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

If there’s one thing I look forward to during Chinese New Year, it’s probably the Chinese movies featured on TV 😉

I’ve not seen this movie – Pursuit of a Killer – but I’m sure some of you have.

We have here a scan of the synopsis as well as a promotional still from the movie.

January 2022

The fountain saga continues…

By |2022-01-26T11:44:26+08:00January 26th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh|

As a follow-up to our previous post, here’s another picture of the aforementioned fountain – which can be found within a locked garden, at the Ipoh General Hospital (Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun).

We thank Edwin Seibel Nathan for the above picture.

Another fountain in Ipoh

By |2022-01-21T10:39:58+08:00January 21st, 2022|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, ipoh, Memories, Natural Heritage|

We thank Anthony H S Law for sharing this picture on Facebook.

He also added: “Water Fountain …. This must be the forgotten Ipoh’s oldest, the rare and perhaps the only fountain of Ipoh city. Dated 1900 or 122 years old, the fountain was “PRESENTED BY LOW FOO ESQ TO THE IPOH HOSPITAL” Maker : Penang Foundry“.

 

Does anyone remember this fountain? Is it still around…somewhere in Ipoh?

Happy Thaipusam

By |2022-01-17T10:40:07+08:00January 17th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

The word Thaipusam is a combination of the name of the month, Thai, and the name of a star, Pusam. This particular star is at its highest point during the festival. The festival commemorates the occasion when Parvati gave Murugan (aka Kartikeya) a Vel “spear” so he could vanquish the evil demon Soorapadman and his brothers. It is also commonly believed that Thaipusam marks Murugan’s birthday; though some other sources suggest that Vaikhasi Vishakam, which falls in the Vaikhasi month (May/June), is Murugan’s birthday.

This festival was (according to one tradition) said to have been supposedly created during one of the battles between the Asuras (or to be more specific Soorapadman) and the Devas. At one point, the latter were defeated several times by the former. The Devas were unable to resist the onslaught of the Asura forces. In despair, they approached Shiva and entreated to give them an able leader under whose heroic leadership they might obtain victory over the Asuras. They surrendered themselves completely and prayed to Shiva. Shiva granted their request by creating the mighty warrior, Skanda, out of his own power or Achintya Shakti. He at once assumed leadership of the celestial forces, inspired them and defeated the Asura forces and to recognise that day the people created the festival, Thaipusam.

According to the Hindu Purana Skanda Puranam, the legend of Murugan, and Thirupugal which are divine verses on Murugan, adhere to Shaivam principles. Murugan is the embodiment of Shiva’s light and wisdom and devotees pray to him to overcome the obstacles they face, as He is the divine vanquisher of evil. The motive of Thaipusam festival is to pray to God to receive his grace so that bad traits are destroyed. (source: Wikipedia)

 

We thank Ann Kesselring Hamon for the above picture.

A Japanese Document

By |2022-01-10T16:55:38+08:00January 10th, 2022|Categories: Identify Photographs|

This document dates back to 4 January 2602 (1942). We believe it is some form of proof that the Japanese Government (in Malaya) at that time found favour with Ali Pitchay and his family. Perhaps they (Japanese) viewed the family as comrades, and may have offered protection to them. Note that this document was torn in half; it is believed that the other half was probably kept by the Japanese Government.

 

We thank the family of the late Mohd Ali bin Pitchay for sharing this with us. If anyone here reads Japanese, perhaps you could help us with a clearer translation.

A 163-year wait…

By |2022-01-03T17:07:20+08:00January 3rd, 2022|Categories: history, Memories|

New Sunday Times, February 8, 1987 – A London diary from Rehman Rashid – A book written by John Anderson the official translator to the British Government during the nineteenth century who was charged with forcing the official liaison between the Government and the Malay Kings. In the course of his duties, Mr. Anderson had access to all the treaties and documentation. He wrote this book including in it detailed transcriptions of all the treaties drawn up between his Government and the Sultans of Kedah, Perak, Selangor and Johore. He recorded the correspondence between the Sultan of Kedah and the lieges of Ava, Tavoy and Ligore – the warring Burmese and Siamese states whose eventual treaty would force Siam to invade Kedah. Mr. Anderson completed his work on September 11, 1824 and submitted the book to the Government printers – who wave immediately ordered to suppress its publications. His book was too critical of his superiors and his Government. Less than 100 copies were printed and John Anderson was left to drift quietly into historical oblivion. But he managed to dispatch one copy of his book as a matter of form to the Governor-General of India at the time, Lord Amhurst. As this was a special gift, an artist was commissioned to paint, as frontispiece to the book, a full-colour portrait of the exiled King of Kedah. This copy of Anderson’s book because of the inclusion of that unique portrait, has survived intact. Last October the copy turned up in the rare book collection of Sotheby’s, the London auctioneers. There it was sold to Mr. R. Gooch, and antiquarian book dealer in Sussex, for a hammer price of £5800. Including Sotheby’s commission, Mr Gooch paid a total of £6500 for it. For Malaysia, however, the value of the book could not easily be measured in any particular sum of money. Reading of Mr. Gooch’s purchase in the New Straits Times last October, a consortium of eminent Malaysians resolved to bring the book home. The transaction was concluded last January 26, and John Anderson’s work after 163 years, was on its way back to the land which inspired it. Tunku Abdul Rahman received the book yesterday as a birthday present. A long, long journey through history and time finally came full circle to its end.

 

Rather interesting story, isn’t it? I wonder what became of the book eventually…

December 2021

Happy New Year 2022!

By |2021-12-29T15:29:37+08:00December 31st, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

 

And there’s a hand, my trusty fiere!
And gie’s a hand o’ thine!
And we’ll tak a right guid willy waught,
For auld lang syne.

For auld lang syne, my jo,
For auld lang syne.
We’ll tak a cup o’ kindness yet,
For auld lang syne.

(extract from Auld Lang Syne, a poem by Robert Burns)

Ballroom Dancing anyone?

By |2021-12-26T17:32:53+08:00December 27th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

I admit, what first caught my eye was the words “Dancing…Time for a Tiger”. Probably from one of the sponsors of the competition.

Does anyone remember this competition? Perhaps you were one of the dancers? Or maybe you know who the winners were. Did the organisers have more of such competitions after 1954?

A Christmas Service Order Booklet

By |2021-12-20T11:33:04+08:00December 20th, 2021|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|

This Order Booklet, dated 19th December 1954, from The Wesley Church in Ipoh contains a list of lessons and carols. A small paragraph reads that the church is thankful to the members of 15/19 The King’s Royal Husssars and their Commander for their wonderful musical display.

Landslide at Cameron Highlands, 1956

By |2021-12-14T10:58:31+08:00December 14th, 2021|Categories: history, Memories, nature|

According to the donors of this photograph; “18 December 1956, was a day of heavy rainfall all the way from Tapah to Cameron Highlands. As the 2 Troop C Squadron of the 15/19 The Kings Royal Hussars (TKRH) were heading up in a 12-truck convoy the troopers in the leading Saracen Armoured Personal Carrier came across a big fall. Three troopers disembarked from the Saracen to guide the convoy through; as this was being done another landslide started and hit the side of their vehicle which then fell into a 300 feet deep ravine“.

More of this story can be found here.

“Angela Flair” ?

By |2021-12-10T15:27:52+08:00December 10th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Have you heard of this company? Was it a boutique? Or perhaps a hair salon? Maybe even a tailor shop?

In case the writing isn’t clear on the paper bag, the address was 107 Jalan Lau Pak Khuan, Ipoh Garden.

Rumah Kutai

By |2021-12-01T17:02:49+08:00December 1st, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

A Rumah Kutai only has one spacious room, with additional rooms being created by hanging cloth between the pillars. It is built for comfort in the Malay style and the tradition of sharing.

 

Have you ever seen / lived in a Rumah Kutai?

November 2021

Perak Academy Talk

By |2021-11-30T15:13:15+08:00November 30th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Perak Academy invites you to a talk by Prof Wang Gungwu on his growing up years. The memories of his childhood and education years, that moulded the man to what he is today – renowned historian, sinologist, writer, his works on Chinese diaspora, the countless awards conferred on him for research done on particular subjects dear to his heart.

Don’t miss this webinar, on 9th December 2021 at 8pm.

Where are they now?

By |2021-11-23T13:44:40+08:00November 23rd, 2021|Categories: childhood, concerts, Identify Photographs, ipoh, Memories, People|

We received this lovely photo from Eric Low. He’s hoping for any information regarding the young people in the above photo.

In his own words:

Once upon a time there was this band in Ipoh who called themselves “The Rain People” (**) … The 1968 or 1969 picture below was taken in one of the Catholic Churches in Ipoh when and where we performed at the birthday party of Rev Bro Ultan Paul of SMI ….
Enlisting your assistance to see if any of you recognise some of the faces, for me to reconnect with a couple of them …
Left to right (standing): We were all ex-Michaelians
Michael Wong (with the drumsticks, whom I know is still in the UK; lost contact).
Next to him – David Hew (whose family owned the Orchid Farm off Tambun Road, which he took over in running; still in Ipoh I am guessing; lost contact).
Miss Wong Mei Ching (of Housing Trust, she was a 6th Former at SMI then).
Yours truly. to Mei Ching’s left ….
Guy in the glasses was my best friend, Richard Chan, who sadly passed away many yeas ago; I managed to get him Aussie citizenship in the 1970s.
And in centre frame (always wanting to be different), sitting down, is Zainal from Kampung Manjoi (someone whom I am desperately trying to reconnect with …)
I am praying that some of these innocent faces of a yesteryear ring a bell with someone out there …

The Royal Bodyguards

By |2021-11-12T16:57:41+08:00November 12th, 2021|Categories: history, Memories, Natural Heritage, People|

Did you know that the Perak Sultan once had bodyguards comprising members of the Mounted Police? Here’s an article from Harchand Singh Bedi, which appeared in The Star recently.

HRH Sultan Abdul Jalil, the Sultan of Perak, and his consort surrounded by their Sikh bodyguards comprising members of the Mounted Police from the Federated Malay States in the early 1900s.
Photo from Star Online

In the early 1880s, a small body of cavalry troops was established to suppress highway robberies, then of almost-daily occurrence in the pass between Taiping, Kamunting and Kinta. They guarded the pass at night; due to their vigilance, the dangers faced by travellers soon disappeared. The construction of the Taiping Kinta cart road and other roads in Kinta, telegraphs and railways, caused the troopers to be less necessary.

Following the formation of the Malay States Guides in 1896, the cavalry troop was separated and transferred from Taiping to Kuala Kangsar to form a royal bodyguard to escort His Highness, the Sultan of Perak. (read more here)

Armistice Day

By |2021-11-10T17:29:23+08:00November 10th, 2021|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories|

Those of you who are familiar with Armistice Day (or Poppy Day) would know that it falls on the 11th of Nov.

The Armistice, an agreement to end the fighting of the First World War as a prelude to peace negotiations, began at 11am on 11 November 1918.

Armistice is Latin for to stand (still) arms.

As such, here is a close-up of the Cenotaph (War Memorial) at our very own Ipoh Railway Station.

As a tribute to the fallen, here’s an extract from that famous poem by John McCrae

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.

October 2021

Ipoh’s Twin City

By |2021-10-15T16:26:17+08:00October 15th, 2021|Categories: Events, history, ipoh, tourism|

This year on 21st March 1989 marks another milestone in the history of Perak. It was the signing of the declaration to accord twin-city status to Ipoh and Fukuoka of Japan.

The declaration is expected to strengthen the bonds of friendship between Japan and Malaysia. It paves a new era of strong economic and industrial cooperation and social, cultural and youth exchanges.

The declaration of the twin-city status was signed by Datuk Bandar(the Mayor) Datuk Haji Umar Abu and Fukuoka Mayor Keiichi Kuwahara at a special function in Japan. It was witnessed by Perak Sultan, Sultan Azlan Shah, the Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ramli and top officials in the state. (read more here)

Famous Names (16)

By |2021-10-06T16:18:03+08:00October 6th, 2021|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, People|

At 21, he inherited his father’s estate. His enterprising approach and advantageous connections combined to bring him early and continued success as a miner. In 1898 he contributed $1000 to establish the Perak Mining and Planting Association. He developed eight mines in Kinta : two at Kampar, three in Gopeng, and one each at Papan, Tronoh and Chenderiang employing 8,000 coolies in total. The richest mines were at Kampar where lit by electricity the mining could continue day and night. He became very well established in Kampar as the leading towkay, became President of the Chinese Club, built a magnificent mansion and jointly with fellow miner Chung Thye Phin he establishing a Chinese Theatre. With this friend he also built a grand bungalow on Gopeng Road named Forest Lodge…(read more here)

I think that last sentence gave it away. Yes, folks. The gentleman above is none other than Eu Tong Sen himself 🙂

…Meng Lembu…?

By |2021-09-30T15:08:45+08:00October 1st, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

No, I’m not making fun of the name. The original caption for the picture below actually reads as “General View of Mine at Meng Lembu”. I do wonder how this name came about…and when it changed to its present name….

 

September 2021

A day at the market

By |2021-09-26T18:57:24+08:00September 27th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Thanks to Chor Seng Mun, we have a lovely photo of the Gopeng Market. From all those flags/posters above the arch, I’m sure some of you can guess what was going on at that time 🙂

“Koo Hon Chok”

By |2021-09-12T18:59:18+08:00September 13th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Why is the title of this post as such? Well, here’s an interesting story by Francis Cheah regarding his paternal grandparents – in particular, his paternal grandfather.

A millionaire building contractor, family sources said he helped Ah Cheong build the iconic Clock Tower. He was 30+yrs then. Being a successful contractor he built the Teluk Anson District Hospital in 1917 along Jalan Anson(now demolished) and owned houses in the Durian Sebatang area. Also once owned the biggest sawmill in Teluk Anson now still standing by a different name. He also built a college along Jalan Changkat Jong… But the WW1 took its toll and the building was abandoned. That much I know.
He was known to be an astute, shrewd businessman and frugal too. Story has it one day he was inspecting at the Hospital worksite.. He picked up a stray nail at the worksite and admonish the workers for wastage. Thenceforth he was nicknamed ‘Koo Hon Chok’ ie Stingy Poker. His name was Cheah Pak Chok.
He died in 1927 when my father was 13 years old. Maybe others in town may know more. He died in 1927. My father died in 1985.

Here’s a picture of Cheah Pak Chok

 

And his wife

 

Thank you for sharing the above story with us, Francis 🙂

The Perak Pioneer

By |2021-09-06T11:58:44+08:00September 6th, 2021|Categories: history, Memories, Natural Heritage, People|

The first issue came out on 4 July 1894; a quarto 4-page bi-weekly edition, which evolved into a 4-page folio journal. By 1 January 1901, the Pioneer was converted into a tri-weekly issue – which soon expanded into 6 pages. By 1 March 1905, this paper transformed in a daily paper. It had 8 pages, with daily service of Reuter’s telegrams and the latest news relating to the Federated Malay States and the Straits Settlements. (read more here)

The picture shows the 1st issue and the printing offices. The gentleman shown is none other than the proprietor – Syed Abdul Hassan Ibnay Burhan.

August 2021

The Perak State Council

By |2021-08-26T15:28:43+08:00August 26th, 2021|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Memories, People|

In the early 1900s, these ten gentlemen formed the Perak State Council.

They were:

  1. Raja Chulan bin ex-Sultan Abdullah

  2. Mr R. J. Wilkinson (Secretary of the Resident)

  3. Mr E. W. Birch, C.M.G. (British Resident)

  4. Towkay Foo Choo Choon

  5. Mr C. W. H. Cochrane (Assistant Secretary to the Resident, Clerk to the Council)

  6. HH Sultan of Perak, Sir Idris Mersid-El-Aazam Shah, G.C.M.G. (President)

  7. Towkay Leong Fee

  8. Towkay Chung Thye Phin

  9. The Orang Kaya Kaya Sri Adika Raja Shahbandar Muda, Wan Muhammad Saleh, I.S.O.

  10. Towkay Heah Swee Lee

 

Tapah Road Station, 1893

By |2021-08-14T15:10:19+08:00August 14th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

The caption says it all, really. Special thanks to “Daerah Batang Padang” – a Facebook page, where we found this rare picture.

When was the last time you took a group photograph at a railway station platform? 🙂

A 90s view

By |2021-08-09T16:11:49+08:00August 9th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

This picture was taken from a 1990 souvenir magazine. (Do ignore the red arrow 🙂 )

Do you recognise some of the iconic buildings shown here? Can you identify which part of Ipoh this is?

A test of strength

By |2021-08-02T10:42:10+08:00August 2nd, 2021|Categories: Events, Identify Photographs, Memories|

We have here Mrs Southwell, ‘flexing her muscles’ as it were. She must have been really strong, to attempt pushing a Triumph Vitesse Six! Looking on is her husband R. J. Southwell.

This picture was taken back in 1966, during the Triumph Owners’ Club (TOC) Gymkhana. 

July 2021

“property watch”

By |2021-07-30T16:14:57+08:00July 30th, 2021|Categories: Ipoh Town|

Fancy owning a bungalow near Fair Park? Or, perhaps one along Kampar Road? If you’re on a tight budget, maybe you could go for one of the “440 cheap dwelling houses” in Kepayang.

What really caught my eye was the last line: “You can buy and live in a comfortable home in the Cleanest Town of the Federation of Malaya under the instalment plan“.

‘finest milk chocolate’

By |2021-07-28T17:49:03+08:00July 28th, 2021|Categories: childhood, famous brands, food|

Here’s a virtual treat for you – Van Houten’s finest milk chocolate 🙂

While doing a little spring cleaning at home, I stumbled upon this tin (which my late grandmother used for her trinkets). I’m going to make a guess and say that this tin probably dates back to the 1970s. I could be wrong though…

RIP ‘Scorpio’

By |2021-07-21T10:52:07+08:00July 21st, 2021|Categories: orbituary|

We extend our condolences to the family of the late Datuk Dr Leong Chee Woh (former Royal Malaysian Police Special Branch Unit chief). Leong died on 18th July from a stroke. He was 92.

Leong Chee Woh was born in Taiping, Perak, on 11th November 1929. His first job after leaving school was as a Clerical Officer with the Town Council, but this was not to his liking and so after a short while applied and was accepted for a post as a clerical officer with the police. Based on his experience he was appointed Chief Clerk to Selama Police Station. This was his first introduction to the brutality of Communist Terrorists (CTs). Towards the end of 1950 after some persuasion from his superiors, Leong volunteered to join the police in an active role. His application was accepted and on 1st December 1950 he joined a batch of trainees at the Police Depot at Gurney Road, Kuala Lumpur, as a Probationary Inspector, for training. He then served with the police force for the next 34 years with promotions regularly taking place, before retiring as Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police 1 (equivalent to Brigadier in the army) and Deputy Director (Operations) Special Branch. (more of his story can be found here)

Who are they?

By |2021-07-19T15:02:11+08:00July 19th, 2021|Categories: Memories, People|

Do you know them? Perhaps you may recognise some of these ladies. We welcome any information – especially if you can translate the caption for us 🙂

Was this the era when the “beehive” hairstyle was all a rage? 😉

The Other Side of Dong Hua Cave Temple

By |2021-07-05T11:55:36+08:00July 5th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs, Natural Heritage, nature|

A long long time ago, there was a wooden temple built onto the side of a limestone cliff. It had a zinc roof. Members of the Perak Heritage Society had visited the place in October 2007. It was located at a limestone hill halfway between Tambun town and Tanjung Rambutan.

This modern structure has since replaced the wooden one. We thank Charlie Choong for the pictures, as well as the short excerpt above. 

June 2021

The Straits Trading Company

By |2021-06-25T12:28:34+08:00June 25th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

The Straits Trading Company (STC) was established in 1886 by two partners, James Sword of Glasgow, Scotland and Hermann Muhlinghaus an entrepreneur from Wiesbaden, Germany. The partnership was formed to set up a tin smelting business in Malaya to meet the obvious demand for a large and efficient smelting business to replace all the small, inefficient smelters in use at that time. The partnership evolved successfully to become one of the largest tin smelters in the world. To raise capital for expanding the business, The Straits Trading Company Limited was incorporated in Singapore on 8 November 1887 with an initial capital of S$150,000. Their first smelting shed was in Telok Anson (now Teluk Intan), previously owned by the Shanghai Tin Mining Company….(read more here)

This picture shows the Straits Trading Company office building in Kampar, Perak. Is the building still around? Or, maybe it’s been converted into something else?

Kinta Ice Works

By |2021-06-23T12:59:36+08:00June 23rd, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Here’s a picture of Kinta Ice Works, probably taken around 1905. Shaik Adam (the founder of Kinta Aerated Water Factory of Taiping, Kampar and Ipoh) established the Kinta Ice Works. This establishment boasted a large plant which churned out tons of ice daily. It was managed by Ted Hodges, brother of the Perak district surveyor.

“everlasting peace”

By |2021-06-18T14:54:59+08:00June 18th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

We have here a 1987 article about how Taiping got its name. Special thanks to our donor Lim Bor Seng.

According to the article, Taiping was established in 1874 after the end of the Larut War which marked peace between the mining groups at war – the Hai San warriors (led by Capitan Chung Ah Kwee a.k.a. Chung Keng Kwee) and the Ghee Hins (led by Capitan Chin Ah Yam). The name means “Everlasting Peace” in Cantonese.

Anyone here with a memory (or two, or more) of Taiping? We’d love to hear from you 🙂

“seated in style”

By |2021-06-13T12:48:30+08:00June 14th, 2021|Categories: Events, Identify Photographs, ipoh, Memories|

Here’s another picture from a magazine. This was taken during the Triumph Owner’s Club AGM, back in 1966. The meeting was held at the Century Motors Ltd Showroom in Ipoh. Do you recognise anyone here? Guests aside, what really caught my eye were the chairs; they don’t make chairs like these anymore, do they?

“pulling a stunt”

By |2021-06-11T13:21:57+08:00June 11th, 2021|Categories: Events, Identify Photographs, ipoh, Memories|

This photo was taken during the 1980 HRH Sultan of Perak’s Castrol-TOC Motorkhana. The ‘stuntman’ is none other than Adrian Boudville, who drove his Citroen BLINDFOLDED!

For those who a suffering from boredom during this MCO, PLEASE DO NOT try this.

May 2021

The Tale of the Petition Writer

By |2021-05-24T11:35:23+08:00May 24th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

When Dad finished his Junior Cambridge Examination in ACS in the early 1930s at aged 17, he was highly educated in English in those days. He could easily get a comfortable Civil Service clerical job but he was adventurous & easy going. He got his first job as a Page Boy in a local hotel. Then World War II came & he laid low. He lost his third brother in the War.


After the War in 1945 with the British administration back in place, he would frequently be called upon by his friends & colleagues to fill up governmental forms which were all in English. Not many could read or write English in those days. Dad was in such great demand doing it for free; he decided to make a living out of it. (read more here)

We thank the Chan Family for this lovely story.

Much ado about noodles

By |2021-05-07T16:13:22+08:00May 7th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

There are different ways of cooking mee. The most common are by frying, by stewing and by steeping it in boiling water for a few minutes and transferring it to a cold bath. If we wish to have the mee fried or boiled, we add meat or fish and some spices to make it tasty. It is important to use a little pepper dust. Mee steeped in boiling water and then washed in cold is the most popular form of mee. It is generally served with hot tasty soup.

I am sure many people would like to know which is the best mee stall in Ipoh. According to my taste the best mee is sold in a stall in Leech Street, at the entrance to Panglima Lane, and by the side of a restaurant. The owner of this stall is a Cantonese. He has been selling mee the greater part of his life and his mee is very delicious. He has a wife and a son to help him and is generally surrounded with customers. [read the full article here]

 

We thank Kong Tet Siew for the above article, which was featured in the 1952 edition of The Michaelian. While we’re on the topic of noodles and such, does anyone know which mee stall the writer was referring to?

April 2021

A 1929 Invoice

By |2021-04-30T11:15:10+08:00April 30th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

This is an invoice addressed to Towkay Chew Chooi Kooi of Teluk Anson (Teluk Intan), showing a rough quotation for a cement foundation. Included also are charges for cement and piling. This invoice is dated 6th May 1929. Also note the unique stationery it was written on…

The Songkok

By |2021-04-27T09:49:25+08:00April 27th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

It is called “songkok” in the Ethnic Malay cultural sphere in the Malay peninsula, Sumatra, and coastal Borneo. However in Java it is called “kopiah” or “kopeah”. In Indonesia it also known nationwide as “peci”. The name “peci” was probably derived from the Dutch word petje means “small hat”. Whatever the name they are all the same shape and style. (read more here)

While we’re on the topic of songkoks, here’s an article of interest.

‘keeping tabs’

By |2021-04-21T15:16:29+08:00April 21st, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Ever since the corona virus hit our shores, there’s been a constant need to keep a check on our movements; for our own safety, of course. However, this is not the first instance where movements were monitored. Here’s a sample of a record for movement of persons, from 1956. This record was necessary to control the movement of people because of the Malayan Emergency.

Endowment Fund Receipt

By |2021-04-16T15:54:31+08:00April 16th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

This is a receipt issued by University of Malaya Endowment Fund on 11th October 1949, for the amount $1. The fund was in support of the construction of one of the first buildings in the University of Malaya. Donations were made by “buying” a building brick for the cost of $1. (read more here)

Meeting Royalty

By |2021-04-12T17:13:05+08:00April 12th, 2021|Categories: history, orbituary|

This picture was taken four months after Malaya won the Thomas Cup, in 1949

This is a tribute to the late HH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh – who is on the extreme left, shaking hands with the badminton heroes Chan Kon Leong, Yeoh Teck Chye and Teoh Seng Khoon. 

An Interesting find…

By |2021-04-08T12:10:12+08:00April 8th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

This letter was sent from S.Seenivasagam, Advocates and Solicitors Ipoh to S.A.A.Lathif, Proprietor of the Lathif Store in Batu Gajah on the 24th April 1930. 

Of course, we all dread receiving a lawyer’s letter…but this particular letter was from a very famous law firm 😉

Have you paid your taxes?

By |2021-04-05T16:24:40+08:00April 5th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Don’t worry. We’re not reporting you to the Inland Revenue Board 😉

Instead, here’s an income tax receipt from 1959. I wonder if they still issue such receipts, now that everything is done electronically…

March 2021

-under construction-

By |2021-03-29T17:11:55+08:00March 29th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Some of you may have already guessed which building this is. For those who are still wondering, we’ll give you a tiny clue: this picture was taken in 1932 (according to our donor), and it was designed by the same person who designed Lido Cinema 🙂

Celebrating Women!

By |2021-03-08T15:55:10+08:00March 8th, 2021|Categories: festivals/celebrations, Identify Photographs, Memories, Sports|

Today being International Women’s Day, we’d like to extend our wishes to all the amazing women – both in and around Ipoh, as well as the rest of the planet. Our featured post today is about women in sports:

 

Here is S P Seenivasagam, presenting trophies to Yeow Phaik Poh and Doreen Seow. This photo was taken around 1964. (picture courtesy of Angie Yeow, Ipoh)

 

 

Pearly Tan (right) and M. Thinaah (photo courtesy of Star Online). These ladies won the Swiss Open title yesterday. 

Have you heard of the White Tiger Festival?

By |2021-03-05T14:53:47+08:00March 5th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Apparently, devotees visit the Paloh Koo Miu Temple in what was once known as the People’s Park, Ipoh,  to pray and make offerings on the White Tiger Festival which falls on 5 or 6 March every year. The day is also known as “The day the White Tiger Opens its Mouth” and is celebrated by Taoists who pray to ward off evil and bad luck. Have you heard of this festival?

A Wedding to Remember

By |2021-03-01T15:26:20+08:00March 1st, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

This completed application form, to be part of the second Perak Hakka (Khek) Association mass wedding, records that the wedding took place on 28th March 1954 at 12pm. This was the third application to be submitted for this date and it is believed that their were thirteen couples that took part in the ceremony. The applicants on this form were Chen Jiu (Male) aged 32 and Zheng Kui Lian (female) aged 21.

February 2021

Before Yik Foong complex…

By |2021-02-19T12:48:13+08:00February 19th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

…there was the Lok Lum Club. Yes, before Yik Foong complex was built there was a club house in that same premise. Undoubtedly the most prestigious Chinese club in Ipoh, it was officially registered on 12 February 1915. Perhaps some of you may remember what the club house looked like. Here’s a picture to refresh your memory.

(You can read more about it here)

Then and Now – water bills

By |2021-02-17T14:42:35+08:00February 17th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Some of you might remember your water bills looking like this (above picture). This of course being from the 1970s or so. 

Compare this to the present water bill (sample taken from Google images). Quite a vast difference, isn’t it?

Lady Treacher Girls’ School

By |2021-02-15T14:08:50+08:00February 15th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

The Perak Government established a Girls’ School at Taiping in 1889 with 8 girls and in 1891 there were 12 girls which was followed by an average enrolment of 36 each month by 1898. The school was named Treacher Girls’ School after Mrs. Treacher because of her special interest she took in the school. (read more here)

Taking a break

By |2021-02-10T12:39:04+08:00February 10th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

We know some of you are rather busy getting ready for the Reunion Dinner tomorrow. How about taking a short break, and having a cup of tea?

PS: Any recommendation for a good brand of tea? 😉

Weng Kwong – Watch-makers & Gramophone Repairer

By |2021-02-10T12:40:46+08:00February 9th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

This is a receipt/advertisement from Weng Kwong Watch-makers and Gramophone Repairer, issued on 19th February 1957, for the amount $53.50. It pledges 6 months guarantee to all watches sold. This receipt was issued for the sale of a Titoni Swiss watch.

Anyone remember who was the owner of this business?

Loggers’ Wine & Dine?

By |2021-02-05T14:18:31+08:00February 5th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

This advertisement from the Loggers’ Wine & Dine introduces Joe Chin (formerly of the Fabulous Falcons) as the organist in their live entertainment from Monday to Saturday from 8pm to 12 midnight. This pub and grill in the late 70s was situated at 40-42, Jalan Kampung Simee at Fair Park, in Ipoh, Perak. It was a new establishment and was owned by four partners one of whom was K K Chan. However, it is no longer in business.

Have you heard of this place? Know what happened to it?

Famous Names (15)

By |2021-02-03T14:38:57+08:00February 3rd, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

When he arrived in Malaya, this gentleman (pictured above) became Chief Architect to the Federated Malay States (FMS), but would later return to the United Kingdom to begin his military career. It is often said that he was the first British Architect to achieve the honour of the rank of Brigadier General. 

The following are some of his notable works:

  1. The White House of Klang (Now Galeri Diraja Sultan Abdul Aziz, under the auspices of the Sultan of Selangor)
  2. State Secretariat Building, Seremban (Now State Library)
  3. The Old City Hall, Kuala Lumpur (Now Panggung Bandaraya)
  4. Ipoh Town Hall Building, Perak
  5. The Railway Station, Ipoh, Perak

I think the last two mentions would have clued you in on WHO our featured celebrity is. Yes, folks…he’s none other than Arthur Benison Hubback.

“Red Packets”

By |2021-02-01T14:47:56+08:00February 1st, 2021|Categories: childhood, Memories|

A red envelope or a red packet (in Mandarin it’s known as hongbao) is a monetary gift which is given during holidays or special occasions such as weddings, graduation or the birth of a baby.

That being said, I’m sure some of the young ones out there will be looking forward to receiving this ‘good fortune’ come Chinese New Year 😉

Here’s a sample of ‘hongbao’ from back then…

January 2021

Famous Names (14)

By |2021-01-28T19:51:18+08:00January 29th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Previously the Senior Assistant of Victoria Institution, Kuala Lumpur, when he came to Ipoh he brought with him one member of his Kuala Lumpur staff and 5 former pupils from his old school. A keen sportsman who had represented Selangor in both football and hockey and quickly introduced both sports to his new school in Ipoh….

Who might this gentleman be? Well, he’s none other than Lieutenant Colonel John Howard Tyte – the 1st Principal of Anderson School, Ipoh 🙂

A Little R&R

By |2021-01-26T21:50:43+08:00January 27th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Ever been to a spa? How about a massage parlour? Well, there once was a massage saloon along Jalan Tokong, Ipoh which offered the following services (see below):

If you’ve been there, we’d like to know how good the service was 😉 We’re also wondering if this place is still in business…

For a brighter smile?

By |2021-01-25T14:21:29+08:00January 25th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

While we take extra steps wash and sanitise our hands, have you been paying attention to oral care?

Here’s a 1950s design of a famous toothpaste (or dental cream, as they call it) brand.

And here’s what the same brand looks like today 😉

 

Dressing for the occasion

By |2021-01-22T10:31:54+08:00January 22nd, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Since Chinese New Year is just around the corner, let me pose this question: have you bought your new year clothes yet? 😉

We have here a cheongsam from the 1950s, courtesy of Mdm Ko.

Compare this classic to the more modern cheongsam today (picture from Google)

Back in 1941….

By |2021-01-20T16:29:01+08:00January 20th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

….a nearby Shell Oil Depot was bombed by the Japanese. The depot was ablaze for 3 days. On that same day, an ammunition train near the Railway Station sidings was also bombed. The impact damaged this church (pictured above) and the vicarage. The explosion shattered the glass panes at the high altar; and a wheel from the locomotive hit the bell tower.

Of course, this picture was before the bombing. In fact, this picture dates back to 1912. I’m sure you know which church I’m talking about 🙂

A Trishaw Procession

By |2021-01-15T16:27:56+08:00January 15th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Do you remember a trishaw procession in Ipoh, back in 2000? The procession, in aid of the Xim Phou Moon Welfare Society’s ‘Caring Day’, took place in Ipoh in the first week of January 2000 (we believe Sunday the 2nd). It was formed by the last 10 trishaws that still existed in Ipoh, nine of them representing an Asian country. Here’s one of the photographs from that event:

Do you recognise the street? If you’re one of those who witnessed the procession, we’d love to hear from you.

“Paging for Dr Ngoh”

By |2021-01-11T16:22:29+08:00January 11th, 2021|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Dr Ngoh Lean Tuck made a significant contribution to the reform of Chinese society in Malaya in terms of education and culture. He was a Queen’s Scholar from Penang graduating with the highest honours in medicine from Cambridge University.

Besides medicine, the reform of the education of girls was also important to him. He promoted debate of such issues by speaking to Ipohites in 1904 at the launch of the Perak Literary and Debating Society at the Kinta Chinese Club.

Sounds familiar, doesn’t he? You’d probably know him by the Mandarin rendition of his name – Dr Wu Lien-Teh      🙂

‘congratulations’

By |2021-01-08T16:04:14+08:00January 8th, 2021|Categories: Events, Identify Photographs, People|

This photograph, taken on 7th January 1919, shows Dr A C Kathigasu and his 19 year- old bride, Sybil Daly on their wedding day at St John’s Church (now St John’s Cathedral) in Bukit Nanas, Kuala Lumpur. The page-boy is Eric Jeremiah, the 6 year-old son of a family friend Iris Jeremiah.

A little history lesson for you…

By |2021-01-04T16:31:52+08:00January 4th, 2021|Categories: Events, history, Memories|

The Battle of Kampar broke out on the night of 29 December 1941, the day after the Japanese occupied Ipoh. The British battalion, under the inspiring leadership of Lt.Col. Morrison, defended the town very well, inflicting heavy losses on the Japanese. When New Year was ushered in, many soldiers, both Japanese and British, had been killed or wounded.

Read more here.

December 2020

Of concerts and dramas…

By |2020-12-29T10:30:31+08:00December 29th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

The press cutting from the Japanese single sheet propaganda paper the Perak Shimbun dated December 20 2604 (1944) speaks of tickets which are on sale for the popular patriotic play, “Oh Chinta Yang Chantek” (“O Beautiful Love”) which was to be staged by Sri Arjuna Bungsawan at Kyoto (ex The Capitol Theatre) in aid of the Indian Welfare Fund. Selected members of the Indian National Army will also participate in the play which is expected to draw bumper crowds. Seats may be booked in advance by getting in touch with the IIL Ipoh.

With all the restrictions on mass gatherings and such, when was the last time you attended a live show? 🙂

 

Much ado about Bovril

By |2020-12-22T20:22:08+08:00December 23rd, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

There’s Marmite. There’s Vegemite. Then there’s Bovril. Flavour enhancer, sauce, marinade…etc. Oh, so many uses!

Which is YOUR favourite? (Someone once mentioned Marmite on toast   😉   )

Planning a local staycation?

By |2020-12-21T10:08:17+08:00December 21st, 2020|Categories: Memories, nature, tourism|

Yes, staycation is a word 🙂 It means “a vacation spent at home or nearby”. Well, now that you know what a staycation is….where do you plan to spend the coming holidays? Here’s an idea (ref. to picture above); why not do what the Jennings’ did?

In the above picture, J A S Jennings and his wife Freda are taking time-off at Rosedale –  their cottage at Kledang Hill Station that they used on weekends and holidays. Ok, ok…so maybe you don’t own a cottage. But I’m sure there are some places near your town that offer a weekend getaway?

What’s brewing?

By |2020-12-18T15:22:53+08:00December 18th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Rake from a tin mine? That’s what I thought…at first. But it’s not dirt nor tin ore that’s stuck on this rake.

And no, this man is not raking coal. In fact, he’s in the midst of roasting coffee beans. Read more here.

Teluk Anson, 1934

By |2020-12-14T12:00:26+08:00December 14th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

These photos (courtesy of Ruth Iversen Rollitt) show shop houses in Teluk Anson. Any Teluk Anson (now Teluk Intan) folks reading this? Any idea what business occupied this premise? 

The Gandhiji Memorial

By |2020-12-02T16:11:03+08:00December 2nd, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

According to this Malaya Tribune article, published on 27th February 1948, a public meeting of all the communities was held at Kampar Recreation Club on Monday March 1st – to consider a fitting memorial to the memory of Mahatmaji. 

Anyone know what was the outcome of the meeting? Was there a memorial eventually?

November 2020

Syonan Times

By |2020-11-30T15:40:03+08:00November 30th, 2020|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Memories|Tags: |

Have you heard of The Syonan Times? “Syonan” was the name given to Singapore by the Japanese (during the Japanese Occupation). The Syonan Times (printed in Singapore) acted as the local newspaper, and was also part of the psychological warfare the Japanese were using in Malaya. 

Here’s a sample of one of their editions, from 1942, (courtesy of Philip LaBrooy):

…dirty jobs…

By |2020-11-23T13:26:15+08:00November 23rd, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

We salute all those who have the least-liked jobs: the garbage collectors, the road sweepers, the janitors, and of course (as seen in the above photo) the Nightsoil Bucket Collectors.

Of course, we don’t have such bucket collectors today…but imagine what would happen without them?

A Royal book…

By |2020-11-20T14:56:51+08:00November 20th, 2020|Categories: childhood, history, Identify Photographs, Memories, People|

Have you ever owned such an exercise book – with British Royalty on the front cover? Personally, I’ve never seen one so unique. Was it common stationery back then…say in the early 1950s? 

 

 

Incidentally, today also marks the 73rd wedding anniversary of HM Queen Elizabeth II and HRH Prince Philip 🙂

Kampar?

By |2020-11-18T16:08:05+08:00November 18th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs, Memories|

Our previous blog entry showed an early depiction of Batu Gajah’s main road. Today, we are featuring Kampar Town. Do you know which part of Kampar this is? (if it’s still there today…)

Poppy Day

By |2020-11-11T15:43:11+08:00November 11th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

We have here an appeal letter for Poppy Day. This letter is dated 1957.

Poppy Day is a memorial day observed in Commonwealth member nations since the end of WW I, to remember those in the armed forces who died in the line of duty. Poppy Day falls on 11 November, recalling the end of the hostilities of WWI in 1918. This day was inaugurated by King George V in 1919; WW I ended with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on 28 June 1919. 

Read more about Poppy Day here. 

UM’s 1st Medical Grads, 1969

By |2020-11-04T15:07:42+08:00November 4th, 2020|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Memories, People|

SMI was proud when the first group of medical students to graduate from University of Malaya included five Michaelians. They are pictured above with another Old Michaelian, Mr Vincent Ooi Eu Sen FRCS, Head of Department of Ophthalmology at the University.

They are, from left to right:
Doctors Chin Kit Kong, Ooi Eng Aun, Chong Min Sin, Vincent Ooi Eu Sen, Thong Yee Heng, Chua Chin Tong.

145 years ago

By |2020-11-02T16:03:10+08:00November 2nd, 2020|Categories: history, Memories, orbituary, People|Tags: |

Here’s a little history recap for you:

This grave is among one of seven Christian ones in Kampung Pisang, Pasir Panjang Ulu (in Perak). The cemetery is said to be within a placid jungle clearing against a backdrop of banana trees and thick foliage, close to the Perak River. (read more here).

October 2020

Famous Names (13)

By |2020-10-30T15:56:02+08:00October 30th, 2020|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, People|

He made the best use of his time in the colony by learning Cantonese, and later Mandarin and travelled extensively in China. He held a number of Senior posts in Hong Kong, British Guiana and Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), before being appointed as Governor of the Straits Settlements and High Commissioner of the Federated Malay States in November 1929, taking up the appointment in February 1930, in place of Sir Hugh Clifford who had retired due to ill-health. (read more here)

Who’s our featured celebrity today? He is none other than Sir Cecil Clementi!

Dining at the…where?

By |2020-10-26T13:05:04+08:00October 26th, 2020|Categories: food, history, Ipoh Town, Memories, tourism|

The Ipoh Bodega was the first European restaurant to open in Ipoh. Its doors opened on the 6th August 1904. Initially catering mainly to the lunchtime crowd, it began serving dinner shortly after and a month later began to stay open until 11pm, with music to entertain the liquor-drinkers. The weather was the death of the restaurant though. Heavy rains in October resulted in the flooding of Belfield Street, the premise of Ipoh Bodega. Accessible only by sampan, Ipoh Bodega was nicknamed the Bog. Less than a month later it closed down and changed hands. The new proprietors faced a different but equally fatal quandary – the night-soil collection carts. These “honey carts” pulled up opposite the Bodega nightly between 8 and 9 pm to engage in their odoriferous task. Angry Ipohites urged for the collection hour to be pushed to midnight but to no avail. The Ipoh Bodega shut its doors for good in early 1905.

The above extract was taken from an article, from the Ipoh Echo (issue 021, 2006). Has anyone heard of The Bog? Where (in Ipoh) would it be….if it were still open today?

Famous October celebrities

By |2020-10-21T16:04:46+08:00October 21st, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Some of you may already recognise these men, famous brothers in the entertainment world (oops, gave away a big clue there!). Coincidentally, both were born in the month of October. Have any of you had the privilege of meeting them?

The ‘Super Spy’

By |2020-10-16T16:23:08+08:00October 16th, 2020|Categories: history, Memories, People|

Forget James Bond, here in Malaya we had a “super spy”. The photo isn’t all that clear (well, he was spy after all!), but you can more or less get a hint of what this spy looked like.

Based on a press cutting, he was known as: “A cunning triple agent who was feted by the British, the Japanese and the French, Lai Tek infiltrated the Malayan Communist Party (MCP) to become its secretary-general from 1938 till 1947. His duplicity was discovered in late 1945.”

How’s THAT for a  spy? 🙂

…more haunting tales…

By |2020-10-14T16:21:52+08:00October 14th, 2020|Categories: childhood, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, movies|

In keeping up with the Halloween theme, here’s a familiar landmark that may have had its fair share of spooky tales…

Somewhat triangular in shape the Odeon is adjacent to St Michael’s Catholic graveyard and like the post-war Rex Theatre, rumours that it is haunted abound. One popular rumour is that if you ever take off your shoes inside, you will never find them when the light comes on — even if nobody has sat in front, behind or next to you. Although the theatre was air conditioned, management would occasionally conserve energy by opening the doors on the side facing the graveyard creating a rather spooky feeling. The Theatre seated 850 on its main floor and in the balcony.

 

“That’s the spirit!”

By |2020-10-12T15:16:07+08:00October 12th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Blythe Spirit is a comic play written by Noel Coward which takes its title from Percy Bysshe Shelley’s poem “To a Skylark” (“Hail to thee, blythe Spirit! / Bird thou never wert”). The play concerns socialite and novelist Charles Condomine, who invites the eccentric medium and clairvoyant, Madame Arcati, to his house to conduct a séance, hoping to gather material for his next book. The scheme backfires when he is haunted by the ghost of his annoying and temperamental first wife, Elvira, following the séance. Elvira makes continual attempts to disrupt Charles’s marriage to his second wife, Ruth, who cannot see or hear the ghost.

On that note, do you have any ‘memorable’ ghost stories to share? 😉

‘chasing ghosts’ ?

By |2020-10-06T13:58:29+08:00October 5th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Some people associate October with ghouls, spirits, and similar spooky stuff. Perhaps it’s because Halloween falls on 31st October; it could also be that we’ve just past the ‘Hungry Ghost’ month. Whatever the reason, some cinemas take advantage of the season by showing a variety of horror films.

That being said, does anyone remember this Chinese film – “The Ghost Chasers” ? It was shown at the Mayfair Theatre.

September 2020

A Trip to Thailand

By |2020-09-21T15:36:01+08:00September 21st, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

This is a pass issued for permission of entry into southern Thailand, valid until 29th January 1978. The holder of the pass has used the pass several times, as can be seen from the chops on both sides of the pass, spanning the months July, August and September 1977. The pass bears the signature of the holder as well as the signature of the Officer issuing Pass (Official Post: Head of Immigration Post, Padang Besar, Perlis).

Famous Names (12)

By |2020-09-04T16:23:10+08:00September 4th, 2020|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Memories, People|

This is part of a portrait picture of a gentleman who had the wellbeing of all people of all races at heart. This picture was taken from an article, which describes our ‘celebrity’ as “a good-hearted, unpretentious, scrupulous and honest man who led the Indians in the fight for an independent Malaya”. 

I think our history buffs are already ‘yelling’ out the answer. Yes folks, this is none other than Tun V. T. Sambanthan 🙂

Coat of Arms

By |2020-09-02T16:49:59+08:00September 2nd, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

This hand-carved Coat of Arms was carved by Ho Mun Wai as a school project when he was in Standard 6 in 1976.

Here’s a little quiz for you: do you remember what each section symbolise?

August 2020

“From Chinese Nationalism to Malaysian Chinese”

By |2020-08-28T12:13:51+08:00August 28th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

“The Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) was officially founded on 27th February 1949 by 16 men, two of whom were from Perak  – Tun Leong Yew Koh and Woo Ka Lim of Ipoh.” – read more at Vicinity Perak – From Chinese Nationalism to Malaysian Chinese – Volume 2 Issue 12, September 2006

The above photo shows the Resident Commissioner (left) and Tun Leong Yew Koh (right).

Beginning of the MIC?

By |2020-08-26T11:09:33+08:00August 26th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

While we’re still on the topic of Merdeka (since 31st August is just around the corner), did you know that:local Indian activism started in the early 20th century with the formation of associations such as the Taiping Indian Association, which particularly focused on the concerns of plantation workers” ? (quote from – Vicinity Perak – From Indian Nationals to Malaysian Indians – Volume 2 Issue 12, September 2006)

The above photo shows Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru (President of the Congress Party of India) speaking to the local Indian community in Kuala Kangsar, Perak in 1937.

Of Women and Merdeka…

By |2020-08-24T12:41:29+08:00August 24th, 2020|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Memories, People|

Meeting of Kaum Ibu members in Ulu Selama, Perak (1958).

The confederation of Kumpulan Kaum Ibu into independent organisations later brought about the creation of Pergerakan Kaum Ibu UMNO (renamed Pergerakan Wanita) in 1949 when the party realised the importance of a permanent women’s auxiliary body. Its leader Puteh Mariah was a dedicated and feisty who took this body to greater heights and she fought for women’s rights thus creating new ventures for women in many areas.

Kaum Ibu also provided classes for betterment of its women and this resulted in some of them being appointed to senior party positions….(read more here)

Mass Indian Meeting?

By |2020-08-17T12:46:34+08:00August 17th, 2020|Categories: history, Ipoh Town|

Yes, there was a mass gathering in Ipoh back in 1942. According to the article, demonstrators numbering 17000 marched through the streets of the town carrying banners and shouting anti-British slogans….

Wonder what happened after that?

Famous Names (11)

By |2020-08-10T15:32:55+08:00August 10th, 2020|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, ipoh, Memories, People|Tags: |

He had been part of the SMI family since 1939 and had helped to rescue vital equipment before the Japanese took over the school buildings. As a musician himself he gave personal encouragement to the Military and Cadet bands, as well as to stage productions. For more than 40 years, he served the students, the staff and the school with great respect, understanding and love. 

The Michaelians are already grinning at this entry 🙂 Yes, boys (and girls), our featured celebrity is none other than Bro Ultan Paul!

Familiar artifact?

By |2020-08-03T12:00:14+08:00August 3rd, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

Remember these fans? I still have one at home (which is worn, with age). But the one I have doesn’t have a motif like this one (pictured above). When was the last time you saw or used such a fan? 

July 2020

‘current affairs’

By |2020-07-29T12:36:48+08:00July 29th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

This Pamphlet, issued by the National Electricity Board’s Information Section, is all about electrical accidents and how we can avoid them. It was published in July 1967 and the pamphlet sketches were by Ibrahim Ismail.

The publication was most likely prompted by the 1966 statistics which showed that 16 people died as a result of electrical accidents and, according to the Chief Electrical Inspector, the majority of these accidents were found to be due to carelessness and faulty apparatus.

Some of the hazards, shown in the above picture, include:

  • Don’t run appliances from adaptors.
  • Don’t knock nails into walls above switches and socket outlets.
  • Don’t fly kites on or near transmission lines.
  • Do take faulty appliances to a registered wiring contractor for repair. 
  • Don’t tie clothes lines to supports carrying electric wires.
  • Don’t climb electric poles.
  • Swatow Coffee Shop

    By |2020-07-21T10:37:01+08:00July 20th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

    While we’re still on the topic of coffee shops and kopitiams…some of you may have heard of Swatow coffee shop. From the picture below, we know that this coffee shop operated at No.8 Aylesbury Street in Ipoh. 

    Improving traffic?

    By |2020-07-14T15:51:35+08:00July 14th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

    Just wondering: those of you who frequented the areas mentioned in the article above, did the traffic lights help? Or perhaps further endeavors were needed for improvement?

    This 1985 article, which appeared in The Star, was courtesy of Philip LaBrooy.

    M.R.C.S.

    By |2020-07-10T10:08:38+08:00July 8th, 2020|Categories: childhood, Identify Photographs, Memories|

    I’m sure you’ve heard of the Malaysian Red Cross Society, which later became the Malaysian Red Crescent Society. No, we’re not recruiting members….just wondered if anyone of you remember the badges from back then. Perhaps you were members of such clubs back in school? [As Ipoh Remembered has pointed out, the actual Red Cross badges have a red coloured cross, not white as in the above images]

    On that note, here’s a little history from Wikipedia:

    The Malaysian Red Crescent has its beginnings in 1948 as branches of the British Red Cross Society in the former British North Borneo (now the Malaysian state of Sabah) and Sarawak. In 1950, the British Red Cross Society established the first branch in Penang in the Federation of Malaya from which it rapidly expanded its presence in the other states.

    Upon the independence of the Federation of Malaya on 31 August 1957, the branches in Malaya were reorganised as the Federation of Malaya Red Cross Society and the society was officially incorporated by statute with the passing of the Federation of Malaya Red Cross Society (Incorporation) Act 1962 by Parliament. On 4 July 1963, the Federation of Malaya Red Cross Society received official recognition as an independent national society by the International Committee of the Red Cross and subsequently admitted as a member of the League of Red Cross Societies on 24 August 1963.

    With the formation of the larger federation of Malaysia on 16 September 1963, the Malaysian Red Cross Society (Incorporation) Act 1965 to incorporate the Federation of Malaya Red Cross Society and the branches of the Red Cross Society in Sabah and Sarawak under the name of the Malaysian Red Cross Society was passed by Parliament and gazetted on 1 July 1965. On 5 September 1975, the Malaysian Red Cross Society was renamed the Malaysian Red Crescent Society by the passing of the Malaysian Red Cross Society (Change of Name) Act 1975 by Parliament.

    June 2020

    Express Mail

    By |2020-06-29T11:18:19+08:00June 29th, 2020|Categories: Events, history, ipoh|

    Remember when the Perak Postal Service started a special express letter service between Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur? It wasn’t that long ago; apparently, there were two dispatches daily (except Sunday and Public Holidays). And the letters would reach the SAME DAY!

    “perfect fit”

    By |2020-06-26T12:10:02+08:00June 26th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

    Looks familiar? Well, this is called a straw boater. What’s even more interesting is, this hat was rather popular with none other than Chung Thye Phin (see picture below).

    VIP visit

    By |2020-06-25T09:41:25+08:00June 25th, 2020|Categories: childhood, Events, history, Identify Photographs, ipoh, Memories, People|

    Back in 1952, Countess Mountbatten visited St Michael’s Institution. As President of the St John Ambulance Association in London she toured Malaya, visiting centres where St John Ambulance activities were organised. In this photograph, she’s addressing an assembly at the school hall – where she declared a half-holiday (much to the students delight!).

    “a Christmas present”

    By |2020-06-10T12:12:49+08:00June 10th, 2020|Categories: history, Memories, People|

    Yes, yes…I know it’s not Christmas. But here’s an interesting story which appeared in the Leader magazine.

    “A week after her marriage in Singapore, Mrs Bloom found herself a captive of the Japanese. Then, thrown together in misery, Occidental, Chinese and Sikh found that prison bars could not confine the human spirit. In Britain on Christmas Day in 1949, it is good perhaps to reflect on another Christmas in a far-off land just six years ago ….” (read more here)

    Robin Hood in Malaya?

    By |2020-05-29T11:42:43+08:00June 1st, 2020|Categories: Events, history, ipoh, Memories, People|

    When the 1939-45 war in Europe ended, in which Police Lieutenant Dick Villiers had visited the continent more times than a peacetime tourist, he was dropped into Malaya as a member of Force 136. When the Japanese capitulated in 1945, Dick left the jungle in Lower Perak and by accident met the Loh family at Telok Anson (now Telok Intan). This was the beginning of an enduring friendship.

    With nourishment in short supply at the end of the war, the Loh’s three month old daughter, Diane, was facing a bleak future. Dick began to feel peckish too when the army refused to put him on rations due to his ‘unofficial’ status. Similar situations had cropped up in Europe when he had ‘dropped in unannounced’ and so, like Robin Hood he solved the problem by using his special skills. (read more about his story here).

    Yes, we had a ‘Robin Hood’ here in Malaya too! 🙂

    May 2020

    “have a seat”

    By |2020-05-29T12:39:11+08:00May 29th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs, Memories|

    Since the Movement Control Order (MCO), we know many of you miss your regular kopitiam-visits. Well, here’s a vintage Bentwood kopitiam chair…for a little nostalgia. Interestingly, Bentwood objects are made by wetting wood either by soaking or by steaming. This wood is then bent and left to harden into curved shapes and patterns.

    Opening of the New Library

    By |2020-05-27T09:28:53+08:00May 27th, 2020|Categories: childhood, Events, history, ipoh, Memories, People|Tags: |

    This photograph was taken during the official opening of the new ACS Library and wing, on 11 June 1955. The gentleman unveiling the tablet is said to be the Perak Deputy Menteri Besar. Does anyone know who he was?

    Also in the photograph are: Methodist Bishop Raymond Archer (left) and school Principal Ralph Kesselring (right).

    Special thanks to our donor – Ann Kesselring Hamon.

     

    Famous Names (10)

    By |2020-05-25T21:14:46+08:00May 25th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|

    Today’s “celebrity” is not a politician or statesman. Our famous personality once performed as a solo artiste in 1977 at the Green Fern Coffee House, Ipoh. The Green Fern Coffee House is, of course, no longer around.

    I’m sure some of you recognise him (pictured above). Yes, this is none other than Joe Chin, formerly of the Fabulous Falcons!

    Joe, if you’re reading this….I’m sure your fans would love to hear from you 😉

    Celebrating Hari Raya in Papan

    By |2020-05-21T10:27:23+08:00May 22nd, 2020|Categories: childhood, festivals/celebrations, Identify Photographs, Memories, People|

    Taken in Papan in the grounds of the Raja Bilah complex outside the Rumah Besar (also known as a Rumah Godang), this photograph shows Raja Yaacob in ceremonial Malay dress with several other Malay men seated or standing around a table. There is a label on the table in Jawi that we believe translates into Hari Raya 1333, which would date the photograph as either 1912 or 1913 in the Gregorian calendar.

    How are YOU planning to celebrate Hari Raya this year?

    Unveiling the Cenotaph

    By |2020-05-19T10:20:53+08:00May 20th, 2020|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|

    The Cenotaph came into being as a memorial for those from Perak who died in World War 1. Initially planned to be erected shortly after the war ended in 1919, building was delayed;  only to be unveiled in 1927 in a ceremony organised by ex-servicemen. We believe this photograph shows that unveiling ceremony on Armistice Day 1927.

    Read more here.

    …oops!

    By |2020-05-19T10:13:07+08:00May 19th, 2020|Categories: Memories, People|

    This article was taken from the Straits Times dated Monday 24th June 1963. It states that the Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, who arrived in Ipoh from Alor Setar was given somebody else’s coat as his own was missing!

    Later, the stranger’s coat was handed over to the Malayan Airways. The airline somehow managed to recover Tunku’s coat, while the dark blue coat was flown back to Ipoh. The coat was said to contain $30 and five lottery tickets.

    I do wonder what became of those lottery tickets 😉

    2 Generations of Teachers!

    By |2020-05-11T09:07:39+08:00May 11th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

    This photograph by Lim Sze Woon, was taken on 21 November 1950. It shows two generations of teachers of St. Michaels Institution. Gordy advisies that seated 3rd from the left is Teh Swee Kang and standing 3rd left is his son, Albert Teh. Seated on the extreme right of the picture is Mr P J Morsingh, the first headmaster.

    “…send me a postcard…”

    By |2020-05-05T16:39:29+08:00May 6th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

    This photograph shows a postcard by William Nabitoepoeloe, a Batak Christian missionary among the Orang Asli (the indigenous people), who survived the Japanese Occupation as a Senoi interpreter for the Japanese. From this card it appears that he was working for the Culture Department based at the Ipoh Town Hall, from where the card was sent. One of his other duties was to monitor the publications being circulated in Perak.

     

    Can your sharp eyes spot the date of this postcard? 🙂

    April 2020

    No…what?

    By |2020-04-29T10:19:42+08:00April 29th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

    No, this is not a danger sign for a Covid-19 hotspot. 😉

    It may well have simply been a sign to prevent entrance to a tin mine or a military installation. Note that this sign is in four languages – English, Chinese, Jawi and Tamil. We believe it may have been before WWII….

     

    ANZAC Day!

    By |2020-04-23T13:54:51+08:00April 24th, 2020|Categories: Events, history, Ipoh Town, Memories|

    Anzac Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand, and is commemorated by both countries on 25 April every year. It now more broadly commemorates all those who died and served in military operations for the country. The picture shows a remembrance parade in Ipoh, back in 1957. 

    A Grand Birthday…

    By |2020-04-20T11:09:32+08:00April 20th, 2020|Categories: Events, greetings, history, Ipoh Town|Tags: , |

    Here we have a ceremony at the Ipoh Town Hall, to observe the Japanese Emperor’s birthday. It is said that Emperor Showa (better known as Hirohito) was born on 29 April 1901; and the Emperor’s Birthday celebrations are always carried out on the actual day of birth. We estimate this photograph was taken in the early 1940s.

    On that note, we’d like to extend birthday greetings to all of you out there who are turning a year ‘younger’ this month of April 🙂

    More medical musings…

    By |2020-04-17T14:22:02+08:00April 17th, 2020|Categories: ipoh, Memories|

    The characters across the top simply read “Chinese Sinseh” while the central panel provides the doctors name as “Zu Yong Chu” in red and his specialities below in black. These include “Physician, Pediatrician/Gynaecologist and Pulse”!
    Down the left hand side the patients are assured of of “Accurate Prescriptions”, while on the right “Careful Diagnosis” is promised.

    This doctor must have been popular… 🙂

    Famous Names (9)

    By |2020-04-12T13:09:50+08:00April 13th, 2020|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, People|

    • He was the vice-president of the Penang Anti-Opium Association in 1906, and played a key role in the first Anti-Opium Conference in Ipoh. 
    • Then, he started a small practise at 12 Brewster Road, and gave his support to the Perak Chinese Amateur Dramatic Association and the Ipoh library project.

    Yes, our “celebrity” for today needs no further introduction. I’m sure some of you can easily recognise him from the photo too 😉

    March 2020

    Perak Mentri Besar gets a promotion!

    By |2020-03-23T10:19:53+08:00March 23rd, 2020|Categories: history, ipoh, Memories, People|

    Remember Mohamed Ghazali bin Haji Jawi? He took over as Mentri Besar of Perak back in August 1957 (after Dato Panglima Bukit Gantang resigned). 

    This newspaper cutting was taken from The Straits Times dated Tuesday, 1st of March 1960. According to the article, Mohamed Ghazali was appointed Malaya’s Ambassador to the UAE.

    “Gone but never forgotten”

    By |2020-03-20T11:27:47+08:00March 20th, 2020|Categories: Events, history, Ipoh Town, Memories, orbituary, People|Tags: |

    No, we’re not in a morbid mood this Friday. In fact, tomorrow (21st March) will mark 71 years since the burial of WW II heroine Sybil Kathigasu (nee Daly).

    We have here a photograph taken at St Michael’s Church, way back in 1949. The hearse can be seen arriving at the tree-lined Church Road. Also note the crowds of well-wishers and altar boys lined up on both sides of the road.

    ‘Men in War’

    By |2020-03-06T15:44:22+08:00March 6th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, movies|

    Lieutenant Benson’s platoon finds itself isolated in enemy-held territory after a retreat. Soon they are joined by Sergeant Montana, whose overriding concern is caring for his catatonic colonel. Benson and Montana can’t stand each other, but together they must get the survivors to Hill 465, where they hope the division is waiting. It’s a long, harrowing march, fraught with all the dangers the elusive enemy can summon. Starring Robert Ryan, Aldo Ray and Robert Keith.

    It’s alright if you’ve not seen this movie. What we’d like to know is…can you recognise WHERE this large billboard may have been? 😉

    February 2020

    Back in Action?

    By |2020-02-17T16:57:53+08:00February 17th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Natural Heritage, Restoration, tourism|Tags: |

    We came across this article in the Star newspaper. If this plan goes through, perhaps we’ll be able to see the once iconic Station Hotel back in all its glory.

    Here’s a recap of the inside of the Station Hotel, from the early 1920s, when a retirement dinner was given to the 14th British Resident of Perak, Lt. Col. WJP Hume.

    Our donor tells us that, Lt. Col. Hume is in white, seated at the head of the table. Seated in the middle of the right row is J A S Jennings, the Editor of Times of Malaya.

    Movie Night…

    By |2020-02-14T14:16:10+08:00February 14th, 2020|Categories: Memories, movies|

    This page was taken from the souvenir programme for the opening of the Ruby Theatre. As shown, the advertisement promotes a movie from Paramount Productions. 

    Were you one of those who watched romantic movies on Valentine’s Day, preferably with your significant other? Perhaps you still do…?

    Happy Thaipusam

    By |2020-02-07T11:09:41+08:00February 7th, 2020|Categories: festivals/celebrations, greetings, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, tourism|

    The word Thaipusam is a combination of the name of the Tamil month, Thai, and the name of a star, Pusam. This particular star is at its highest point during the festival. The festival commemorates the occasion when Parvati gave Murugan a Vel “spear” so he could vanquish the evil demon Soorapadman.

    We at IpohWorld would like to wish everyone a Happy Thaipusam 🙂

    We thank Keith Nelson for the above photographs.

    A Royal Visit

    By |2020-02-05T16:55:07+08:00February 5th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Memories, People|

    The gentleman in the centre (with glasses) is none other than His Majesty Sultan Idris. The lovely lady is His Majesty’s Consort – YTM Che Puan Negara Aminah.

    We believe this photograph was taken at a factory, probably sometime in the 70s. Could anyone tell us more please?

    January 2020

    Behind the Hongbao….

    By |2020-01-29T15:44:41+08:00January 29th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|

    I’m sure many of you “eligible” individuals received a lot of Ang Pau / Hongbao for the New Year. 🙂

    It is said that: “The amount of money contained in the envelope usually ends with an even digit, in accordance with Chinese beliefs; odd-numbered money gifts are traditionally associated with funerals. The exception being the number 9 as the pronunciation of nine is homophonous to the word long and is the largest digit. Still in some regions of China and in its diaspora community, odd numbers are favored for weddings because they are difficult to divide. There is also a widespread tradition that money should not be given in fours, or the number four should not appear in the amount, such as in 40, 400 and 444, as the pronunciation of the word four is homophonous to the word death.” [source – Wikipedia]

    What about the story / legend behind the giving of these red envelopes?

    Some say that this tradition dates back to the Song Dynasty in China. There was once an evil demon terrorising a village. After several unsuccessful attempts to defeat it, a young orphan came forward. Armed with a magical sword, he killed this demon – thus restoring peace to the village. The people were so grateful to the boy, that they presented him with a red envelope filled with money to repay him for his courage in defeating the demon.

    There is also a story about a little demon called ‘Sui‘. It is said that on New Year’s Eve, ‘Sui‘ would appear quietly and touch the heads of sleeping children. These little ones who’ve been touched end up crying in fright, while suffering a headache. One folk tale, about ‘Sui‘, mentions an elderly couple who placed a red paper bag containing copper coins under their child’s pillow. When ‘Sui‘ was about to reach out to touch the child’s forehead, the pillow suddenly brightened with golden light. And so, ‘Sui‘ was scared away; hence this ‘exorcism’ effect (of copper money wrapped in red paper) spread throughout China.

    Next on Sharpened Word…

    By |2020-01-22T17:08:21+08:00January 22nd, 2020|Categories: Events, ipoh|

    Zunar’s session in January was just as exhilarating and we have a full crowd to  start the new year.
    Taking about star power ! Not to be outdone, our theme for February will be equally exciting i.e. Local Animation.
     
    Sharpened Word is proud to bring in the creator and director of the multi-award winning short animation movie BATIK GIRL , Irwan Junaidy, to Ipoh to share his experience and journey with us. The 9 minute animation has certainly created a lot of publicity since launch last year and received rave reviews, not to mention that the animation has been shortlisted in multi film festivals across the globe. 
     
    And to add icing on the cake, Hassan Muthalib, Malaysia’s Father of Animation, will join us as the other panelist and both  of them will go the whole nine yards and give us an overall view of the local animation industry.
     
    It will be interesting to hear their respective takes on the evolution and development of the local animation industry as both of them come from a different era of visual story creation, with the more senior Pak Hassan now establishing himself as an renowned movie historian and reviewer.
     
    This is a session especially suited for those who are keen to get involved in the industry and those who want to know more about animation. Again,the topic will be centered on storytelling and creativity, or perhaps creative storytelling?

    …have suitcase, will travel?

    By |2020-01-08T10:37:20+08:00January 8th, 2020|Categories: Identify Photographs|Tags: , |

    I know….we’ve just come back from a long holiday 😉 But some of you out there have been saving your annual leave for Chinese New Year, right? Have you packed yet? (Or, perhaps you’re one of those last minute packers…like me)

    Pictured above are two original Chinese trunks, measuring 66cm×45cm×37cm. Made from wood they were covered in pigskin and would have been used by well-off immigrants.

    Wedding Invitation?

    By |2020-01-06T16:20:16+08:00January 6th, 2020|Categories: greetings, ipoh, Memories|

    That’s what I thought at first. But actually, this is a greeting card for Christmas and New Year – from The Season Store Ltd.

    We thank Wendy Dowell (nee Harley), from the UK, for sharing this with us.

    December 2019

    The L O N G wait…

    By |2019-12-04T14:19:00+08:00December 4th, 2019|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: |

    Taken from the Straits Times, dated 25th Dec 1959, it states that many have complained about the long waiting hours at the Taiping District Hospital. One of the patients, who went to the hospital at 9a.m., was not admitted until 5.30p.m.

    I guess we’re still having the same issues today, aren’t we? 😉

    November 2019

    VIPs at a dinner…

    By |2019-11-22T14:26:54+08:00November 22nd, 2019|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, People|

    We thank Muhammad for sharing this photo with us. His grandfather – Mohd Ali bin Pitchay – is the gentleman on the extreme right. Can you identify the others in this photo? 😀

    We were told that this photo was taken inside the Lam Looking building…

    Say “NO” to plastic bags…

    By |2019-11-11T16:24:32+08:00November 11th, 2019|Categories: Identify Photographs|

    Imagine carrying something like this while shopping at your local mall 😉 Quite handy though, considering many places have either stopped giving out plastic bags, or even charge you extra should you need a bag. This raffia bag comes from Madam Ko Wye Fong.

    Something to jog some memories…

    By |2019-11-06T15:56:57+08:00November 6th, 2019|Categories: Identify Photographs|

    This plastic bag has “Beauty” printed on one side, and “Crescendo” printed on the other. Both these names were once famous in Ipoh town – as they were names of shopping outlets. Beauty was at 140 & 142 Hugh Low Street; Crescendo was at 14-18 Chamberlain Road.

    The Teacher…and his students

    By |2019-11-04T14:48:03+08:00November 4th, 2019|Categories: childhood, Events, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , |

    We thank Barat Kumar for sending us this picture. In his own words, Barat explains:

    “As we bear witness to the passing of a great man I would like to share this picture of Our beloved Mr Selvamany. Picture was taken on 14 July 1972 at a farewell assembly. This was when he went on transfer. From left Thian Hock (?) and Chong Kee Seng. 
    Accompanying Mr Selvamany is Principal”

    October 2019

    RIP, dear Teacher

    By |2019-10-31T09:20:48+08:00October 29th, 2019|Categories: Identify Photographs|

    It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Datuk Seri N. S. Selvamany.

    May his soul rest in peace. 🙁

     

    Here are two articles, which pay tribute to this well-loved educator.

    Beloved Anderson teacher N.S. Selvamany dies

    Remembering a great teacher, the late N.S. Selvamany

     

    UPDATE: The following is an obituary from the Star newspaper, with details of the funeral. (thank you for the email, SK)

     

     

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