February 2024
January 2024
Famous Names (18)
….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).
Back to School!
We thank Prof Dr Lee Kok Onn for sharing this with us. Anyone remember this textbook?
December 2023
Welcome 2024!
Wishing you a very happy 2024!
Christmas Greetings
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas!
from all of us at:
November 2023
Deepavali Greetings!
Happy Deepavali!
from all of us at:
Dirgahayu Tuanku
On the occasion of the birthday of His Majesty Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah Al-Maghfur-Lah.
Dirgahayu Tuanku!
Perak Academy Talk (25th Series)
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
Tong Bee Cloth Merchant
We thank Wai Ming Kuah for this picture. Does anyone remember this Grand Cheap Sale?
Where could this place be?
We received this from an anonymous donor. That building in the background…looks familiar, doesn’t it? Can you identify it?
September 2023
When was the last time…
…you saw/used an iMac? Better yet, do you remember the iMac G3? Let’s refresh your memory with this picture (below).
“new kid in town”
We’re pleased to announce a “new addition” to our Ipohworld collection. Yes, this is a restored Shell petrol pump, from the 1950s.
August 2023
Selamat Hari Merdeka Ke-66
We’re 66! Can you believe it? Happy Independence Day!
Make a guess…
Looks familiar? Some of you may already know where this place is. We’d love to hear your comments. 🙂
SMI Military Band
The St Michael’s Institution military band, somewhere in the late 1960s…
I wanted to be a drummer boy, but they gave my a euphonium, so I played that instead.
We thank Andrew YC Loh for the above picture and caption.
A Parade in Ipoh
Here’s another two pictures from Mun Chor Seng. Does anyone recall this float parade? Or, perhaps you remember these unique floats?
Get that Hollywood look!
We thank Wei Ning Kuah for sharing this picture with us. We were told that this shop was founded in 1939, and that the photo dates back to the early days before the Japanese Occupation. It is said that the original premise was along Brewster Road.
Perak Academy Talk: The Universal Relevance Of Gandhi As A Principle Of Life
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
Wedding Photo Ideas?
We have here Chen Seong Yin and his wife to be, Briggita, posing with a trishaw – as part of their wedding photo shoot. This was taken in August 1996 at the Darling Honemoon Villa in Ipoh Garden.
Did you have a unique location for your wedding photo shoot?
“Mr Addis takes over”
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
‘special delivery’
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this interesting envelope with us.
Doug’s new home…
…at least that’s what the caption said.
Doug’s new home, Govt Quarters off Gopeng Road, Ipoh, Perak, FMS
I wonder if Doug liked his new home….maybe our donor (Chee Ong Ngai) could tell us 🙂
Back in 1942…
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
Taiping news…
Back in 1987 (on the 30th on June, to be exact), this building (pictured above) was officially opened by His Majesty the Sultan of Perak Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah.
Any Taiping folks here? Perhaps you might remember this…
Wesak Day Parade, Ipoh
We thank Mun Chor Seng for this photo. Here we have Ipoh’s black-and-white Amahs walking in a Wesak Day Parade. This is of course Brewster Road…and one of the shop houses in the background is none other than Lean Kap Seng’s photographic studio (which many of you may know as Scoop photo studio).
A show to remember!
Back 1959, there was a bikini show in Ipoh. Where it was held is anyone’s guess. What we do know is, our donor (Chee Ong Ngai) found this picture at Shaw Theaters, Singapore, website.
Such a show would definitely draw a lot of flak today…
Sir William George Maxwell
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture of Sir George Maxwell. In case you were wondering, Maxwell Road was not named after him; it was named after his brother Eric.
Another Interesting Sign
I’m sure this doesn’t need much explanation. We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture.
Did you know?
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” ?
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.
Advertisement – Jamnadas
Here’s another excerpt from The Yamato Times. This one is an advertisement by P. S. Jamnadas & Co.
Daulat Tuanku!
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
Out in the town…
No prizes for guessing where this was taken. However, we do thank our donor – who prefers to be called “Canning Garden” – for sharing this picture with us.
Chingay Procession
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
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…
“job vacancy”
Here’s a short advertisement, to join the Teacher’s Training class on May 6th. The advertisement appeared in The Times of Malaya and Straits Echo, back in 1950.
The London to Sydney Marathon
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!
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!
One Cent…note?
Yes, this is a sample of a 1 cent note. Some of you might remember this.
(Sorry, no prizes for guessing WHOSE face is printed on the note 🙂 )
…busy street…
Here’s a relatively easy one. I’m sure you can guess where this is 🙂
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this photo.
Another unique road sign
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this one.
Pardon me if I’m wrong…but are those Japanese characters, written above the English words? If so, this picture could have been taken during the Second World War (or a little after).
Happy Labour Day!
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
Guess the year
From what we know, the first control tower at the Ipoh Airport was built in 1938. Hence, with reference to this photo below (from Edwin Seibel), could this be dated somewhere in the 1940s? Or, perhaps later…after the Second World War?
Headquarters of the FMSVF
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture. It is said to be the headquarters for the Perak Battalion of the FMSVF. (I wonder if the building is still around…)
A December meeting
Here’s a meeting booklet from the Perak Turf Club. (courtesy of Edwin Seibel).
I noticed it said “second day”…..must have been a rather long meeting 🙂
A rare find…
Here’s a rare find from Chee Ong Ngai. This is the Posts & Telegraphs Office in Tanjong Rambutan. (wonder what’s become of this building…)
That Gazebo…
Yes, you read the words right. This gazebo was once part of the Ipoh Club. [see here for a different angle of the Club, with the gazebo on the right]
We thank Edwin Seibel for sharing this picture with us.
Hello? Is it me you’re looking for?
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?
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.
Pari River had a dredge?
Yes indeed…according to this article (below) from Times of Malaya & Straits Echo.
Another ACS production…
Here’s another scene from an ACS play. This one is from Carousel, back in 1977. The pretty girl striking a ballerina pose is none other than Michelle Yeoh!
We thank Ong Su-Ming for sharing this photo with us.
March 2023
…that famous, tragic, romance…
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.
Nice day for a swim!
Believe it or not, these children are having a blast by the Kinta River! Yes, there was a time you could swim at this river….
Southern Soap Factory
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…
“full house”
This picture was taken from the ACS centenary magazine, probably before the start of the school play. We thank our donor Ong Su-Ming.
Market Street, 1919
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture, which is part of a postcard. Here we have Market Street, from Court House Road. You can also see FMS Hotel.
Incidentally, we have this postcard in our collection (along with a little history to it).
Kamta
Remember these tickets? Yes? No? Perhaps you might remember the bus (see below)
If I’m not mistaken, the number plate reads as AB 270….
Malaysia Air Charter?
Have you heard of Malaysia Air Charter?
Federation Armed Forces
We have here an example of uniforms worn by the Federation Armed Forces. From left to right: Walking-out Dress, Ceremonial No.3 Dress, and Battle Order Dress.
We thank Ipoh Remembered for sharing this photo with us.
“caught in the act”
We thank our donor Ong Su-Ming for this picture, which was taken from the 100th Voyage 1895-1995 (an ACS, Ipoh magazine).
Do you remember this play, back in 1952? Or, perhaps you caught the later adaptation in 1962?
Perak Academy Talk – “Perak Royalty & Nobility – Its History, Succession, Etiquette and Decorations”
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
….more advertisements…
Here’s another nostalgic photo from Chee Ong Ngai.
Have you had a Cadbury lately? 🙂
Advertising…back then
When was the last time you saw such an advertisement? I for one have never come across such creativity!
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture.
“care for a drink?”
Have you been to the Sinhalese Bar in Ipoh? We’d love to hear your thoughts – especially if you know something about its history 🙂
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture.
Off to the movies!
Some of you may already recognise this at the Rex Cinema, in Kampar. We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this picture with us.
A Wrestling Match?
Here’s another rare find from Chee Ong Ngai. This is said to be Sikhs (from the Perak Armed Police) engaged in a game of wrestling.
“Tan Ngan Lo”
According to the donor of this picture (Chee Ong Ngai), this was taken at Indera Mulia Stadium in Ipoh…back in 1985.
Anyone here remember this promotional booth?
Double the celebration!
picture source: Star Online
Whether you’re celebrating the 15th Day of the
Lunar New Year (Chap Goh Mei)….
picture source: Star Online
or Thaipusam, we wish you a joyous celebration.
And remember to always stay safe!
January 2023
Back to School!
Do you remember this school bus?
Somewhere in Ipoh
Here’s another gem from our donor Harvant Lisa Harper. Do you recognise the buildings in the background?
…bet your bottom dollar…
No, we’re not encouraging gambling. Rather, some of you may find this (picture above) a familiar sight during Chinese New Year.
Let’s hear from our mahjong experts out there!
Hopping into the new year!
May your wishes come true,
and your good fortune multiply like rabbits!
from all of us at:
New Year, New Clothes?
They may be posing at a park, but I’m sure these ladies are all dressed up for a special occasion 🙂
We thank Shuen Huey Foo for sharing this picture with us.
“Austin and Me”
No, that’s not me. Rather another lad, who was obviously proud of his family car (I would presume).
‘drumming in the new year’
Nothing like a good ‘ol Lion Dance Troupe to welcome Chinese New Year. Speaking of which, has anyone here been part of a troupe at some point in your youth? (maybe you were ‘part’ of the ‘lion’ too?)
This guy certainly wanted to join in the fun! Read more here.
picture source: NST online
See How It’s Done
This is how one would use a medium pole weighing scale. We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture.
Familiar corner
No prizes for guessing…but I’m sure MANY of you recognise this familiar street corner!
December 2022
It’s 2023!
Happy New Year!
Here’s to feeling thankful for the year behind
and enthusiastic for the year ahead.
Police Quarters
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?)
Have you seen Santa?
Some say he rode on a sleigh, pulled by reindeer.
Then, there were sightings of him ‘jumping off a plane with a parachute‘. (see below)
The REME men, however, said he ‘travelled by train‘.
How did Santa deliver YOUR presents?
Back in 1988…
Here’s another one from Harwant Lisa Harper. This was Ipoh, back in 1988.
…memory of an old Christmas Card…
When was the last time YOU received a Christmas (or any other greeting) card?
Home for the holidays
Here’s a shout out to those travelling home for the holidays. Have a safe journey and happy holidays!
We thank our donor Chee Ong Ngai for this picture. Yes, this was part of the FMS Railway…just after the Bukit Gantung Station.
‘Scenes from a Nursery’
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this with us. Looks like it was part of a magazine or booklet. Do you recognise it?
‘Mysterious’ mansion
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.
A Blast from the Past
Here’s a rare find. I’m sure you recognise the building the in background (left). We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this gem.
November 2022
Somewhere in Temoh
If you’ve been to Temoh, you may have seen this building. No, it’s not an empty and abandoned house. It’s actually a post office.
We thank Rahman Majid Khan for these interesting photos.
Guess Who?
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!
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 🙂
Charity Show
Back in 1954, there was a charity show at the Anglo-Chinese Girls’ School. It was for a good cause – to aid the educational work among the Dayaks in Borneo.
Did you catch the recital and one-act play?
Remember Yardley?
When was the last time you saw this brand?
Oath of Secrecy
With the Malaysian General Elections just around the corner, here’s another interesting find (from the family of the late Ali Pitchay): an Oath of Secrecy, taken by election candidates!
Keeping the streets clean
What’s this funny looking contraption, you ask? Why, it’s a one-man battery-operated street cleansing vehicle!
Back in the 1960’s Ipoh had a well deserved reputation of being the cleanest town in the Federation of Malaya….
Making Plans…
No, I’ve not taken up architecture 🙂
This is in fact a drawing of the proposed multi-storey car park, at Station Road.
Wedding Memories
Do you recognise the background? If you do, you would know WHERE this wedding reception took place 🙂
We thank Nancy Ong for sharing this picture with us.
Dirgahayu Tuanku
On the occasion of the birthday of HM Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah.
Dirgahayu Tuanku!
…still in the Elections Mood…
Do you remember that time when UMNO and MCA contemplated a “grand alliance”, to contest in the Town Council Elections in Perak? Well, this article might refresh your memory…
Perak Academy Talk – Malaysians Memilih in GE15: A Pivotal Polls
Mark your calendars. This 7th November, Perak Academy will be hosting a talk titled: Malaysian Memilih in GE15: A Pivotal Polls.
The talk will be at 8pm, at Mamut Meeting Room (1, Jln Lasam, Greentown, 30350 Ipoh).
For more details, you may enquire at:
contact@perakacademy.com
or, WhatsApp 016-4123742
October 2022
Going to the Polls
For those of you who haven’t been following the news lately, Malaysia will be going to the polls on the 19th of November 2022.
That being said, here’s a sample of a Pre Independence Election poster!
We thank the family of the late Mohd Ali bin Pitchay, for sharing this rare find with us.
“Landmark Rescued”
We usually hear about historical landmarks being torn down to make way for modern structures. Here’s an old article about a famous landmark in Taiping…which was rescued!
Happy Festival of Lights!
May the light of the lamp give a new light to your life every moment.
May this holy festival of lights bring happiness, peace and prosperity in your life.
from all of us at:
…no easy feat…
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.
‘smooth traffic’
Can you believe this is Cowan Street? Hardly any traffic, save for that lone vehicle on the right.
Can’t find such clear roads now though…
Then and Now – Rose Brand Flour
On the left is a flour bag from the 1970s. On the right is the same Rose Brand Flour, but in a plastic package.
Other than the slight change in the logo, what else do you notice?
Famous Names (17)
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.
Salam Maulidur Rasul
from all of us at:
An Interesting School Trip
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)
Learning ‘Nipponese’…
This was an interesting find – learning Japanese (or, Nipponese) via a booklet. It came with Romanised Malay translation too. Does anyone remember such a book?
September 2022
Lions Club Souvenir
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?
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
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…
…ready for take-off
We thank Gary Au Yong for this picture. Seems like the pilot is making a final inspection before the plane leaves the airport. Yes, in case you didn’t recognise the building in the background…this is, of course, the Ipoh Airport.
‘makan’ time
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 🙂
Mid-Autumn Greetings!
from all of us at
Did you know…
…that the Parit Independence Clock Tower was put up not only in honour of Independence Day but also to declare Perak Tengah as the centre for Malay culture? From what we know, it was built in 1959; and it was officiated by the country’s first Prime Minister.
Tea Time!
I’m sure many of you recognise this corner building 🙂
Do you remember the tea stall outside (as pictured above)?
(picture courtesy of Hovid)
248, Brewster Road
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
Selamat Hari Merdeka ke-65
from all of us at:
Railway Police?
This is a Federated Malay States Gilt Railway Police Cap Badge; a five–pointed star shaped with ‘F M S Railway Police’ between two circles and surrounding a tiger in centre.
Have you seen a badge like this before?
Boy Scouts Poster
We thank Ganesh Kolandaveloo for sharing this lovely poster with us.
Have you seen such posters before? Were they part of a series, perhaps?
Staff photo, from 1955
This is said to be a Staff Photo, from 1955. We thank Gary Au Yong for this gem 🙂
Celebration Time!
We thank Gary Au Yong for this picture. It was taken on 25 April 1953. This is said to be the Perak Hoteliers’ Association at Fu Heng’s 3rd anniversary.
Japanese HQ at Anderson School?
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.
A year…after WW 1
This photograph reproduced from ‘Imperial Patriot’, shows a ceremony at the Ipoh Club to mark the first anniversary of declaration of World War I on 4 August 1915.
Goodbye to a Legend
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.
Scenic Springs
Looks like a beautiful painting, doesn’t it? This postcard shows the hot springs at Tambun, Ipoh. It was posted to France on 28 August 1913. It shows three men in front of the geyser; behind the geyser are the famed Limestone cliffs of the Kinta Valley. This, of course, is a Kaulfuss postcard 🙂
Grand Opening?
We thank Ann Kesselring Hamon for sharing this picture with us. We believe this was taken when the Chinese Methodist Church first opened, back in 1954. Could anyone tell us where this place is?
July 2022
Becoming a Citizen
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!
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 F&N Bottle, over the years
Here’s a comparison of F&N bottles over the years. If I’m not mistaken, the first bottle is from the 1940s. The one in the centre may have come out a few years later. The last one of course is today’s modern creation.
The First Battalion Perak Sikhs
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…
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)
Smith Astral
Have you heard of this brand? Well, apparently they made ship clocks…like this one:
Unique Ashtray
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.
…high on a hill…
Did your sharp eyes see that famous symbol on the hill? Look again carefully, if you missed it 🙂
We thank Edwin Seibel for sharing this photo with us.
“The Choice of the Enthusiast”
Here’s an advertisement from the 1970s. While most of us have heard of Duckhams motor oil, have you heard of Hargill Engineering Sdn Bhd?
Ahmad Noor @ Halaloedin Hamzah
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!
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?
…more ice cream to scream about…
We thank Ipoh Remembered for this advertisement, which of course is from Cold Storage Ltd.
Here’s an idea for the weekend – indulge in your preferred flavour of ice cream (with your favourite toppings too!)
Canning Garden Estate Ltd
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
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).
Then & Now – Phone Bills
Here’s a Then & Now comparison, of telephone bills. One the left is a Talikom bill from 1965, while on the right is a TM (Telekom Malaysia) bill dated 12 April 2020.
Gone…but not forgotten…
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.
…passing through…
We credit this photo to Lakhbir Singh Bedi. The scene, of course, is the Tanjong Rambutan railway station.
“News from the Fort”
This picture was taken from a press article (from New Straits Times), dated 30 June 1987. It shows the Ngah Ibrahim Fort at Matang, about 10km from Taiping, which has been turned into a historical show-piece by the Museum Department – with the addition of a mini-museum.
So, now you know what happened to the Fort 🙂
Daulat Tuanku
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.
Malim Nawar, 1980s
Here’s a 1980s picture of Malim Nawar Village. Anyone been to Malim Nawar lately? Maybe you could tell us if this stall is still around…
We thank Marea Smith for sharing this with us.
An Ice Cream Seller
Here’s another picture which was featured in our Falim Exhibition, back in 2013.
This is said to be a Chinese ice cream seller. I wonder how he kept the ice cream cold…
May 2022
Dim Sum and F&N?
This was one of the pictures used in our Falim Exhibition a few years ago.
Has anyone tried this – Dim Sum and F&N? I usually have my Dim Sum with hot tea….to each their own, I suppose.
Another look….
Here’s another look at the Ipoh Railway Station; this one shows part of the garden, and what seems to be the Ipoh Tree perhaps?
Celebration time!
Here’s another one from the Watson album. We were told that this was taken at the Ipoh Club.
Tee-time!
We thank Conrad Pregrave-Payne for the above picture. We believe that the gentleman in the dark suit is Sir R. G. Watson (Resident of Perak). The venue of course is the Kinta Club, which catered to both horse racing and golf.
…something NEW!
We’ve always featured old photos of this famous bridge. Here’s something new – from V Radnell. Yes, it’s non other than the Hugh Low Bridge (now known as the Sultan Iskandar Bridge).
This is a recent view, probably a year or two ago.
Getting to know ‘Austin’
From the number plate, we can safely assume that this picture was taken before WW2.
I’ll leave this here for all the classic car lovers….
Somewhere in Kuala Kangsar
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
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.
A Nice Sunny Day
We thank Eugene Lee for this picture.
Can you guess which street this is (maybe also the year)? 🙂
Silver Jubilee Medal
On this day in 1935, Towkay Leong Sin Nam was forwarded a medal – in commemoration of the Silver Jubilee of Their Majesties the late King George V and Queen Mary.
We thank Dr Leong Oon Keong (the grandson of Leong Sin Nam) for sharing these pictures with us.
One for the Album
How’s this for a lovely family photograph? We’re guessing this was taken during Hari Raya. In the picture are Jaafar and whom we believe to be his grandchildren. Don’t they look great in their baju Raya?
Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri
from all of us at:
April 2022
Welcome to Teluk Anson Town
We thank LingLi Tan for sharing this picture with us. Maybe someone familiar with Teluk Anson (or Teluk Intan, as it is called now) could tell us more 🙂
“balik kampong”
With Raya round the corner, many will be travelling back to their hometowns this year. Of course, such kampong houses (like the ones above) may no longer be around…but they were once a common sight.
Perak Acedemy presents…
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 2022Register in advance for this webinar:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bMrsXp6vTn-dVUqd9lY8lQAfter 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.
Celebrity Lookalike
We’ve heard of Elvis impersonators. Some of them sound almost like the late King of Rock and Roll….almost.
Here is a Yul Brynner impersonator.
Anderson Road?
Yes, believe it or not…this is an early view of Anderson Road.
We believe it’s very early 1900.
Make Way!
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.
“Visit Malaya”
This is 1 of 4 of the hand painted posters, measuring 81cm x 100cm, produced in 1961 for the Visit Malaya in Orient promotion. Does anyone recall seeing any of these posters around the town in the 1960s?
A List of Monuments and Sites
We thank Philip LaBrooy for sharing the above article with us. Unfortunately, we’re not sure of the date of this article (nor the newspaper it was taken from). This is a list of historical buildings, monuments and sites compiled by the Museums Department.
Here’s a close-up of the Perak column:
A catalogue for dredges?
This picture is taken from a Werf Conrad Tin Dredges Catalogue. Here’s a close up of a dredge, showing the dredge buckets.
The picture below shows a dredge bucket, from two different angles.
170 years!
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 🙂
The 1st Meeting…
This picture was taken at the Ipoh Town Hall, where the 1st UMNO Perak meeting was held. It was chaired by none other than Dato Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab, way back in 1946.
March 2022
….more ‘lost’ heritage…
Here’s another picture from Eugene Lee. This one shows an old building in Taiping. Does anyone recognise it?
5 New Flavours!
This is an advertisement from a 1967 newspaper (The Straits Times). Any fans of F&N here? Which was your favourite flavour?
Order in the Court!
The photograph shows the inside of the Supreme Court with the President of the Court, Lieutenant Colonel J G Adams seated in the Judge’s seat and a number of court officials positioned around the room.
Shangri-La Restaurant
I’ve heard of Shangri-La Hotel…but not Shangri-La Restaurant. Has anyone been there? What was their signature dish?
Heritage…abandoned
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“.
Ovaltine Rusks?
We have here a tin of Ovaltine teething rusks. According to our donor (Mr Chan Hoe Cheng), this tin is about 55 years old!
A day at the races…
Here’s another photo from Conrad Presgrave-Payne – the grandson of Sir R G Watson. We believe the lady seated extreme right is none other than Lady Watson herself.
This photo was taken at the Ipoh Gymkhana Club, probably back in 1913.
we all scream for ICE CREAM!
We thank Shyamala Manoharan for this lovely picture. This picture was taken at a birthday party, at the Ashby Road Transit Quarters, in the 1960s. Incidentally, as our donor tells us, this ice cream seller served ice cream at many a party there.
An Interesting Postcard
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
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?
A Carnival in Ipoh
We thank Charlie Choong for sharing these pictures with us. Can you guess which street this carnival passed through?
February 2022
Ipoh Town, 1960s
I’m sure you know which street this is 😉
Travelling via Elephant
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 🙂
Belfield Street, 1930
We thank Edwin Siebel for sharing this picture with us. Yes, it is none other than the E W Birch Fountain 🙂
…and on to sports news…
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.
Once upon a villa…
Here’s a familiar villa 🙂 What’s even more interesting is the interior – where once there was a portrait of the owner! (picture below)
We thank Lennie Brookes for sharing these pictures with us.
Waller Court flats
Here’s another picture from Ipoh: The Town that Tin Built. This is an early shot of the famed Waller Court flats.
“Modern Living”
According to Ipoh: The Town that Tin Built, this is part of the Canning Garden housing estate. Any idea which section of Canning Garden this is?
Another British Resident of Perak
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.
“going West”
Did it serve ‘western food’? Or, was this just a nickname? If you know more about this ‘western restaurant’ do let us know 🙂
ps: This advertisement can be found in a Chinese New Year booklet, produced by Odeon Theatre.
Movie Time!
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
Gong Xi Fa Cai!
Greetings for the Year of the Tiger!
Picture courtesy of Ho Hoo Wan.
Guess the street
Does this street look familiar? Well, if it does…do let us know WHERE in Ipoh this is 🙂
The above picture was taken from "Ipoh: The Town that Tin Built"
The fountain saga continues…
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
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?
Boon’s Iced Eau de Cologne
Did you know Boon Pharmacy had their very own Eau de Cologne?
Boon Pharmacy was run by the Chew family, as many of you know.
Incidentally, the family were neighbours with the LaBrooys.
Happy Thaipusam
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.
‘rowing into town’
No, this is not a picture of the recent floods that hit us. This picture is actually from 1967, in Kuala Kangsar.
Can’t believe the water level rose that much….
Keeping it clean
The above picture shows the Ipoh Town Council’s new cleaning lorries. These lorries were used back in 1960s, of course. The advertisement below may give you a better view of them.
These pictures were taken from Ipoh: The Town that Tin Built (1962)
A Japanese Document
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.
Happy Birthday!
They say it’s rude to ask a woman her age. This “lady” pictured above, however, is proud to announce her 115th birthday 🙂
Yes, Ipoh’s HIJ Convent is a hundred and fifteen years old today!
89 years ago…
…the Old Michaelian’s Association (OMA) was first formed. Yes, way back in 1933. The picture featured below, however, was taken a year later – on the occasion of the opening of the Association’s premises.
A New Heritage Trail
Yes, folks! An 8km foot trail, with 32 stops, is expected to be launched in two months. This trail will be called the Ipoh Cantonese Heritage Trail. (read more here)
A 163-year wait…
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!
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)
A PPP Membership Card
Here’s an interesting find – a membership card for the People’s Progressive Party!
Also note the signature of a VERY prominent historical figure….
Ballroom Dancing anyone?
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?
Feliz Navidad!
Merry Christmas to you, from all of us at IpohWorld 🙂
The above picture (from Michael Ho) was taken at a Christmas party, back in 1970.
The party was held at the Catholic Centre.
What’s for dinner?
All set for that big Christmas feast? Will there be the traditional roast? Or, perhaps you’re doing something different this year. Maybe a vegetarian menu?
Anyway, here’s a Christmas menu from 1959. We thank Keith Nelson for sharing this with us.
A Christmas Service Order Booklet
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.
Lam Chuan Co
Here’s another puzzle for you – Sharikat Lam Chuan Co.
Was it a textile store? Or, an emporium?
Landslide at Cameron Highlands, 1956
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” ?
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.
Going Shopping?
Here’s an eco-friendly tip: Use paper bags (such as the one shown above) or bring your own reusable bags when shopping. 🙂
When was the last time you saw a Whiteaways’ bag like this one?
“Happy Birthday”
…well, belated birthday actually. Nevertheless, birthday greetings to St Michael’s Institution (SMI) – born on 4th December 1912.
Here’s a 1920s drawing of the school, which was in an old Malay bungalow.
Same Street, Different Year
The one on the left was taken around 1955 (thanks to our donor Charlie Choong).
The one on the right is a screenshot from Google Maps, taken today.
Yes, it is the same street 🙂
Rumah Kutai
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
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.
Aulong Police Station
Here’s a group photograph with Dato Seri Yuen Yuet Leng and Datin Seri Yuen, and Staff of the Aulong Police Station. This was taken on 12th December 1979.
A Grand Opening
Here’s one from 1985, taken at the opening of Wisma Taiko in Ipoh. I’m sure many of you recognise the VIPs in this photo 🙂
Where are they now?
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-MichaeliansMichael 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 …
Nice day for a wedding
The photograph shows the wedding day of John Arthur Stuart Jennings and Rose Winnifred Jennings, which took place at St George’s Church, George Town, Penang on November 10th 1910.
What did YOU wear to your wedding? 🙂
A Blaupunkt Radio
Ever owned a radio like this? What were your favourite radio stations/frequencies?
From Across the Padang
Yes, this is part of the famous Ipoh Padang. And the building in the background is of course the Ipoh Club. This was taken off a postcard, which seemed to date back to 1912. Hence, we believe this picture was taken around 1910.
The Royal Bodyguards
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
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
Blue Cross
No, not a variant of Red Cross 😉
This is in fact a paper bag advertising Blue Cross condensed milk. We thank Ipoh Remember for this picture. Does anyone remember this brand?
Greetings for the Festival of Lights
May your festival of lights celebrations be fun, safe, and spiritual.
Wishing you a bright and joyous Diwali.
from all of us at
This was 1878
Yes, you read that right. This was the view of the town, from the Old Residency.
October 2021
“my day out”
Would anyone like to identify this black beauty?
A Street Parade
We thank Charlie Choong for these photographs. These were taken during a parade in Ipoh.
Could it have been during the Nine Emperor Gods festival? Can you guess the year?
That famous pipeline…
We thank Mun Chor Seng for sharing this picture with us. Yes, it’s Gopeng Pipeline! (and we believe the handsome young man in the picture is none other than our donor, of course)
Alpine Milk?
Heard of this brand? I haven’t…probably from before my time 😉
I thought it was rather interesting that the saucers are printed in 4 languages.
Ipoh’s Twin City
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)
Cowboy’s Inn?
According to this advertisement (from 1988), this place offered a “City Day Special”. Does anyone remember where Cowboy’s Inn was? And, perhaps what’s become of the place?
…all in a row…
Here’s another blast from the past – rickshaws in a row, in Taiping nonetheless. 🙂
…when the ‘Sun’ set in Ipoh…
Dated 1st July 1983, this article mentions the Sun Cinema making its way for a skyscraper.
Do any of you remember that fateful day?
Famous Names (16)
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 🙂
Taiping, late 1800s
Believe it or not, this picture was taken in the late 1800s in Taiping.
Bet the experts have already identified these buildings 🙂
…Meng Lembu…?
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
Tauge from Buntong?
picture source: Star Online
Yes, you heard it right! Buntong is not only famous for kacang puteh, they have bean sprouts too!
Read more here.
A day at the market
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 🙂
….that house at Anson Road…
The caption at the top left corner reads as:
192 Anson Road, Teluk Anson. Built in 1900. Sold in 1955.
I think the artist did a pretty good job, don’t you?
Mid-Autumn Greetings
Wishing you a Happy Mid-Autumn Festival.
From all of us at IpohWorld 🙂
“Koo Hon Chok”
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 🙂
“…next stop – Ipoh”
Here’s an early 1900s view of the Ipoh Station. So different from what it looks like today, eh?
The Perak Pioneer
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.
…THAT famous used car mart….
This picture needs no introduction. Wonder what happened to the cars once this business ceased operation….
August 2021
Selamat Hari Merdeka!
We have here a lovely 1957 photo from Mohd Taib, showing part of Hugh Low Street.
HAPPY MERDEKA to all of you, from all of us at Ipohworld!
The Perak State Council
In the early 1900s, these ten gentlemen formed the Perak State Council.
They were:
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Raja Chulan bin ex-Sultan Abdullah
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Mr R. J. Wilkinson (Secretary of the Resident)
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Mr E. W. Birch, C.M.G. (British Resident)
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Towkay Foo Choo Choon
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Mr C. W. H. Cochrane (Assistant Secretary to the Resident, Clerk to the Council)
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HH Sultan of Perak, Sir Idris Mersid-El-Aazam Shah, G.C.M.G. (President)
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Towkay Leong Fee
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Towkay Chung Thye Phin
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The Orang Kaya Kaya Sri Adika Raja Shahbandar Muda, Wan Muhammad Saleh, I.S.O.
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Towkay Heah Swee Lee
A wet, wet day…
Here’s another picture of the Teluk Intan district hospital….taken during a flood.
The Teluk Intan District Hospital
Here are two rare pictures of the Teluk Intan District Hospital. I’m sure some of you can guess which year these were taken 🙂
Tapah Road Station, 1893
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? 🙂
Looking Smart!
Here’s an early 1900s view – of what a policeman wore back then!
Too bad this picture is not in colour…
A 90s view
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
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”
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’
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’
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?
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? 😉
“side view”
Here’s an easy one for you: Do you know which building this is? It’s in Ipoh, of course 🙂
The year was 1963
Here we have the Mercantile Bank building, all lit up for the big day back in 1963. I’m sure you history-buffs know WHAT the big event was 🙂
Photo courtesy of: Ruth Iversen Rollitt
“commercial break”
…and now, a word from our sponsors 🙂
Jokes aside, anyone here owned/rode an Ariel Motorcycle?
We thank Ipoh Remembered for sharing this advertisement with us.
The Other Side of Dong Hua Cave Temple
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
Perak Automobile Club
This picture was said to have been taken during an Ipoh Motor meet – on the occasion of the formation of the Perak Automobile Club, back in 1907.
House-boats by the river
This picture, taken back in the early 1900s, shows Malay house-boats on the Perak River.
Has anyone been in a house-boat before? If not in Malaysia, perhaps in another country?
The Straits Trading Company
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
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”
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”
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?
RIP Joe Chin
Our condolences to the family of the late Joe Chin – who was once part of the Fabulous Falcons. Click here to read a lovely tribute to this musician.
May 2021
Back in 1988…
…Ipoh was declared a city! Here’s one memorable newspaper cutting of the celebrations. (more samples can be found here)
The Tale of the Petition Writer
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.
Going somewhere?
We thank our donor (Tom Turnbull) for this photo – apparently showing a “road to nowhere“. We believe this to be somewhere in Tronoh…
Believe it or not!
This photograph shows a view of the first timber building of the Anglo-Chinese School (Ipoh) at Lahat Road. Completed in May 1896.
Amazing, innit! 😉
Much ado about noodles
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
The Songkok
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’
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
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)
The Junior Technical School
This bulletin called Young Malaysians was published on Wednesday, 23rd November 1949. There are a number of journals and essays in this bulletin and one of them was the “Trade Training for a Career”
read more here
Meeting Royalty
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.
March 2021
The 1st School Badge?
SMI’s badge had an excess of symbols: the Fleur di Lis of France, the Irish Shamrock, the British crown, the lamp of learning, a monogram of the school’s name, a Malaysian sunrise and the star is repeated. (read more here)
SMI students, past and present, we’d like to hear your thoughts! 🙂
Memories – the ‘Great Singout’
Yes, back in 1968 there was a choral performance organised by Methodist Girls’ School. It was a charity event in aid of the school’s building fund. You can find some of the audio clips from this concert here.
Celebrating Women!
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?
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
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
Time for a staff photo
This is a photograph of Maxwell Kenion Cowdy and Jones Staff, a famous legal partnership, taken on the 23rd of March 1953. Do you recognise anyone? 🙂
Before Yik Foong complex…
…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)
Lady Treacher Girls’ School
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)
Weng Kwong – Watch-makers & Gramophone Repairer
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?
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)
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:
- The White House of Klang (Now Galeri Diraja Sultan Abdul Aziz, under the auspices of the Sultan of Selangor)
- State Secretariat Building, Seremban (Now State Library)
- The Old City Hall, Kuala Lumpur (Now Panggung Bandaraya)
- Ipoh Town Hall Building, Perak
- 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”
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)
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 🙂
Back in 1941….
….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
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”
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 🙂
Khek Community Association Building
This photograph shows the headquarters building of the Perak Khek Community Association, a Hakka dialect group also known as the Hakka Association. Is this building still used by the association? Or, have they moved to another place?
A little history lesson for you…
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.
December 2020
Of concerts and dramas…
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? 🙂
Planning a local staycation?
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?
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.
The King visits Perak
Back in 1977, the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong visited Perak. His Majesty is seen here shaking the hand of Dato Seri Yuen Yuet Leng. (This picture was taken from Dato Seri Yuen’s album).
Anyone out there ever had the opportunity to shake hands with Royalty? 🙂
The Gandhiji Memorial
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
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):
Poppy Day
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.
Guess Who?
No, he’s not a famous actor. This handsome gentleman is actually Mr Creet – Founder of the Grand Hotel.
UM’s 1st Medical Grads, 1969
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
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)
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?
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?
The ‘Super Spy’
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…
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!”
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’ ?
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
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).
“going up?”
Here we have an article from The Malayan Tribune, dating back to 1945.
“for the love of Milo”
This is an example of what one can do with a used Milo tin – turning it into an oil lamp 🙂
Which brings us to this interesting article in today’s Star newspaper.
Any ‘collectors’ reading this? We’d love to hear your thoughts…
‘Discovering’ Perak…
Here’s your “homework” for today: Study these pictures carefully. How many of these places do you recognise?
Some clues can be found here. 😉
Famous Names (12)
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 🙂
August 2020
“From Chinese Nationalism to Malaysian Chinese”
“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?
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…
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?
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?
“New” building…
Believe it or not, this was the first church building for Our Lady Of Lourdes Church, Ipoh. This photo dates back to 1905.
Famous Names (11)
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!
July 2020
‘current affairs’
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:
M.R.C.S.
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
VIP visit
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!).
The Perak Pioneer
Have you heard of the Perak Pioneer? The first issue, a 4-page bi-weekly edition, came out in 1894. Soon, the paper gained popularity and it became an 8-page daily by 1905. Sadly, on the 18th anniversary of the paper, its editor wrote his last editorial.
Royal Transport
We’ve heard of royalty having their own special vehicles (and customised number plates). Here we have another “royal mode of transport” – an elephant of the Sultan of Perak 🙂
“a Christmas present”
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?
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”
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
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)
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
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
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.
…oops!
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 😉
Talentime, 1961
Does anyone remember this event? This article was published in Cold Storage Group of Companies’ Social and Sports Scrapbook, back in 1961. Read more about it here.
2 Generations of Teachers!
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.
Inside the SITC Dormitory
The Sultan Idris Training College (also known as SITC) was built in 1922. It was the first education training institution in Malaya. The above photo shows the inside of the SITC dormitory.
Any SITC alumni out there? We’d love to hear from you….
“…send me a postcard…”
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? 🙂
….now where have I seen this building?
Those of you who’ve guessed it already know this to be part of the Elim Gospel Church. But what was this building used for?
April 2020
The Kebaya
Ladies, when was the last time YOU wore an elegant Kebaya? Perhaps for a party? A wedding? A fancy dress competition?
Also….how many types of Kebaya are there?
The ‘first’ wedding at the ‘new’ church…
Here we have the first wedding, which was held at the newly built Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, Ipoh. The groom was Arokia Dass @ Noel, while the bride was Amalorpavamary @ Mary Rozario.
We also have a copy of the church marriage register, which documented this wedding….as well as another photograph of the couple.
A Grand Birthday…
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…
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… 🙂
The Doctor is IN!
Did you hear about the Chinese Doctor who opened a clinic at No.39 Anderson Road? According to the above flyer, he’s from Guangzhou and he specializes in prescriptive acupuncture….
Famous Names (9)
- 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!
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”
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’
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?
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…
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
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.
January 2020
Behind the Hongbao….
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…
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?
ACS Students befriend a ‘lion’…
We thank Ann Kesselring Hamon for sharing this photo with us. We were told that this was taken in 1957, at ACS Ipoh.
…have suitcase, will travel?
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.
December 2019
Meet John Robson
John..who? John Robson, best remembered as the founder and proprietor of The Malay Mail newspaper 🙂
The L O N G wait…
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? 😉
‘new beginnings’
Did you know…that the foundation stone for the present building of St John’s Church was laid on 15 December 1910? Here’s a picture of the church when it was just completed (in 1912).
November 2019
The Lee Heng saga continues…
We thank Sai Chew Yin for sharing this with us. In his words “Lee Heng is synonymous with the Yin family living in Ipoh for three generations, had many fond and happy memories growing up in our home/shop“.
With reference to our previous blog, Sai added “The receipt was made out by one of our staff members, Mr Kwan Kam Tong“.
The Teacher…and his students
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
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)