Han Chin Pet Soo is open! Book now at www.ipohworld.org/reservation
Han Chin Pet Soo is open! Book now at www.ipohworld.org/reservation

October 2023

August 2023

July 2023

Back in 1942…

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

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

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

June 2023

May 2023

Chingay Procession

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

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

 

I wonder which part of town this was….

April 2023

March 2023

Southern Soap Factory

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

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

Wonder what’s become of the soap factory…

January 2023

December 2022

November 2022

October 2022

…no easy feat…

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

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

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

Here’s another picture from that parade.

An Interesting School Trip

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

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

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

Here’s another picture of the group:

(read the full story here)

September 2022

August 2022

Japanese HQ at Anderson School?

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

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

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

July 2022

Coming to a theatre near you!

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

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

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

May 2022

April 2022

February 2022

January 2022

December 2021

A Christmas Service Order Booklet

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

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

November 2021

Armistice Day

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

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

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

Armistice is Latin for to stand (still) arms.

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

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

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

October 2021

September 2021

July 2021

“property watch”

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

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

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

May 2021

January 2021

November 2020

October 2020

Dining at the…where?

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

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

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

…more haunting tales…

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

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

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

 

September 2020

August 2020

Mass Indian Meeting?

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

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

Wonder what happened after that?

July 2020

May 2020

Famous Names (10)

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

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

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

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

Unveiling the Cenotaph

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

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

Read more here.

April 2020

ANZAC Day!

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

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

A Grand Birthday…

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

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

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

March 2020

“Gone but never forgotten”

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

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

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

February 2020

Happy Thaipusam

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

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

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

We thank Keith Nelson for the above photographs.

December 2019

The L O N G wait…

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

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

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

November 2019

VIPs at a dinner…

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

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

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

The Teacher…and his students

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

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

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

October 2019

August 2019

The year was 1957…

By |2019-08-26T16:00:32+08:00August 26th, 2019|Categories: Events, Ipoh Town, Memories, movies|

…when Lido Theatre had its grand opening. Thanks to Hong Soon Keong, we have here a photograph taken outside the cinema before the opening. It shows the Band of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Lincolnshire Regiment of Taiping by the kind permission of the Commanding Officer, Lt Col S G Doulson performing outside the Lido Theatre.

June 2019

May 2019

What became of the Pedestrian Mall?

By |2019-05-21T15:31:30+08:00May 22nd, 2019|Categories: history, ipoh, Ipoh Town|

This news article (dated 10 June 1985) reported that the Ipoh Municipal Council planned to turn a length of Jalan Osborne into a pedestrian mall temporarily for three months. The mall will be a permanent feature only if there is not much objection from the traders. If made into a permanent feature, the mall will be re-surfaced with multi-coloured tiles.

Hmm….does anyone remember this plan taking form? Could this be the same area where the present “Gerbang Malam” is?

13th May 1948

By |2019-05-16T09:02:51+08:00May 13th, 2019|Categories: childhood, history, Ipoh Town, Memories, movies|

On this date, in 1948, the movie “The Boy with Green Hair” played at Ruby in Ipoh. Anyone watched this movie? Did Peter’s hair turn back to its original colour?

 

UPDATE: The year is in fact 1949, not 1948 as stated. 13th May back in 1948 was a Thursday, not a Friday; hence, with reference to the above movie poster the year should be 1949 instead.

April 2019

Ipoh Food Festival

By |2019-04-25T15:45:57+08:00April 25th, 2019|Categories: Events, festivals/celebrations, food, Ipoh Town, tourism|

Heard about the Ipoh Food Festival? Check out the posters below:

Here’s a message from the organisers:

We have many exciting workshops and experience for tourist to sign up. Some are also free.
Including

1) Dine in the Dark (rm15 per pax)
Register via WhatsApp name > 012-4128038

Rattan Basket Weaving Workshop [1 seat left]
27 Apr | 4:30pm (2 hours)
https://loka.fun/ft-rattan-basket-weaving-27apr

Fruit and Vegetables Bouquet Workshop [8 seat left]
27 Apr | 7pm (2 hours)
https://loka.fun/ft-fruit-veggie-bouquet-27apr

Cultural Dining Experience – Malay | Chinese | Indian [28 seat left]
28 Apr | 6pm (1.5 hours)
https://www.lokalocal.com/tour/3737/cultural-dining-experience-malay-chinese-indian

Ipoh Echo Food & Heritage Trial with Vivien Lian (Halal and Non Halal) [13 seat left]
28 Apr | 7:30am (5 hours)
https://www.lokalocal.com/tour/3735/ipoh-echo-food-heritage-trial-with-vivien-lian-halal-and-non-halal

Liberica White Coffee Roasting Workshop [8 seat left]
4 May | 4:30pm or 8:30pm (1 hour)
https://loka.fun/ft-liberica-coffee-roasting-4may

Malaysia Local Coffee Roasting Workshop [9 seat left]
4 May | 4:30pm or 8:30pm (1 hour)
https://loka.fun/ft-msia-coffee-roasting-4may

Bees Wax Wrap Workshop by A Bit Less Bulk Store [7 seat left]
4 May | 4:30pm (2 hours)
https://loka.fun/ft-beeswax-wrap-4may

Coffee Scrub Workshop [10 seat left]
4 May | 7pm (2 hours)
https://loka.fun/ft-coffee-scrub-workshop-4may

Ipoh White Coffee Story & Heritage Tour [57 seat left]
4 May | 8am or 4pm (2 hours) | English & Chinese session
https://loka.fun/ft-ipoh-story-heritage-4may

More info is at Ipoh Food Fest Facebook page
https://m.facebook.com/theipohfoodfest/

 

Well, what are you waiting for? Come join in the fun 🙂

March 2019

February 2019

January 2019

Somewhere in Ipoh…

By |2019-01-18T10:05:00+08:00January 18th, 2019|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|

Thanks to Ipoh Remembered, we have the above photo to keep you entertained this weekend.

Some of you may have already guessed WHERE this place is. Can you also guess the year?

And just for fun, we’ll let Ipoh Remembered keep tally of your score….. 😉

December 2018

November 2018

October 2018

September 2018

August 2018

Rare photo

By |2018-08-27T16:24:28+08:00August 27th, 2018|Categories: famous brands, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: |

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courtesy of: Charlie Choong

What’s so rare about this one? If you look closely, you can see the words “Chan Sam Lock Photo Service” on the blinds (below the large Chun Mee signboard). Yes, Chan Sam Lock started out as a half-shop along Brewster Road once upon a time….

Tourist Trails of Old Ipoh

By |2018-08-15T16:49:06+08:00August 15th, 2018|Categories: Events, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage, tourism|Tags: , |

“Fancy travelling down the memory lanes in Ipoh?

Commander Ian Anderson would bring you through the tourist trails of Old Ipoh, to allow you to relive the good old glorious Ipoh. 

The speaker will guide the audience along the first published tourist trails of Ipoh in 1914, continuing with a look at the differences created by development in the trail of 1921.

The lecture will conclude with a look at the development of today’s Old Town Heritage Trail.”

Mark your calendars, folks. Come by to STG Ipoh Old Town this Sunday 19th August 2018, from 2.30pm – 5pm.

For more details, check out the link below:

https://www.samasamaperak.my/jom/tourists-trails-old-ipoh/

 

July 2018

Ipoh, 1990s

By |2018-07-25T12:37:38+08:00July 25th, 2018|Categories: Ipoh Town|

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Yes, folks. This is Ipoh back in the early 1990s. Compared to the skyline of today, not many tall buildings were around back then.

June 2018

Hotel Bali

By |2018-06-29T16:33:18+08:00June 29th, 2018|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town|Tags: |

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Heard of Hotel Bali? It was located at Jalan Ali Pitchay. This picture was taken from their business card. On the back of the card is the following description: “Stylishly furnished modern hotel; all rooms with telephones and bathrooms; ample parking space; air conditioned bar and restaurant with beautiful waitresses in attendance; excellent Chinese and European food; special monthly rate available; moderate charge prompt service.”

Ever been to Hotel Bali?

ANY Gift House?

By |2018-06-22T15:56:58+08:00June 22nd, 2018|Categories: famous brands, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

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Here’s another one from the Yeoh Family album. I know…it’s a funeral procession (no, we’re not feeling morbid today). What caught my eye was the signboard on the extreme right – ANY Co Gift House. I’ve certainly never heard of it (perhaps too young to remember… 😉 ). Do any of YOU remember this shop?

Table Tennis Winners

By |2018-06-13T15:36:16+08:00June 13th, 2018|Categories: Events, games, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , |

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picture courtesy of: Haji Musa & family

Yes, those in the leading car in this parade were the Perak State Table Tennis Team. Incidentally, the team won the National Table Tennis Championship back in 1967. The winners went on parade through Hugh Low Street – passing the premises of the Oversea Chinese Banking Corporation. The President of the Perak Association, Towkay Chong Kok Lim (later Tan Sri) was said to be in the leading car. Does anyone remember this parade?

Perak Academy Talk

By |2018-06-07T09:59:12+08:00June 7th, 2018|Categories: Ipoh Town, Perak Academy Talk|

perakacademy

Synopsis

GE14 marked an end to half a century of a “one-party state” paradigm, which started with a Malay Tsunami (not a Chinese Tsunami!) in 1969.  Tun Razak’s “one-party state” paradigm came with two heavy drawbacks.   First, UMNO/BN’s unchecked power bred corruption and abuse of power, which culminated in the 1MDB global scandal.   Second, by attempting to eliminate Malay opposition parties, UMNO unwittingly radicalized PAS.

 

The 2018 Malaysian Tsunami swept away UMNO’s synthesising the state of the party.   But are we seeing a “two-party system” now?   Even if we can have a “two-party system”, will it benefit Malaysia?    Will the elimination of UMNO reduce or worsen communalism in Malaysia?   Should Pakatan Harapan make a conscious effort to choose and nurture its loyal opposition?

 

Be prepared to have many of your established ideas and conventional wisdom challenged and examined by a speaker who is known for counter-intuitive ideas and unconventional analysis.

 

Interested? Contact FT Lum for reservation, latest by 11 June 2018

 Tel/Fax:    05-241 3742
Mobile:    016-221 3742
Email: contact@perakacademy.com

 

April 2018

March 2018

Sketch of a familiar landmark

By |2018-03-23T12:26:32+08:00March 23rd, 2018|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage|

A long time ago, a featured two sketches from a local artist (who’s also an alumni of ACS). Some of you may recognise his work (see picture below). Yes, this is another drawing from Amiruddin Mohd Daud’s collection. Together with his wife, they are quite involved with charity and fund raising activities; 10% of the sale of his drawings will go to MAKNA (Malaysian Cancer Council). For more information on Amiruddin and his works, you can contact him via email: rat.adventure@yahoo.com

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February 2018

Club Road, Ipoh

By |2018-02-23T14:55:12+08:00February 23rd, 2018|Categories: Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage|Tags: , |

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Remember the time when palm trees lined up Club Road? Neither do I  😉 Jokes aside, I’m sure those trees stood there for quite a while, before bowing to ‘development’. Since the Town Hall can be seen in the background, I’m making a wild guess as to the date of this postcard; I’m thinking…1920? Perhaps the experts out there could correct me..

Hugh Low Street & Bridge – Then and Now

By |2018-02-02T14:27:29+08:00February 2nd, 2018|Categories: Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, Restoration, tourism|Tags: , , |

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Left picture: Tinted photograph from 1950 Right picture: Same bridge and street from 1989 (courtesy of Ngai)

Yes, we’ve featured this famous bridge and street numerous times. But what I’m curious about is the building next to the Lam Looking building. In the tinted photo, it looks like just another shophouse.  In the 1989 photo however, this same building seems to have undergone a massive makeover. Can anyone tell us more about this building?

January 2018

Outside Grandma’s house…

By |2018-01-30T16:02:15+08:00January 29th, 2018|Categories: childhood, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|

Today’s blog picture is from Sybil de Roquigny (via email). She tells us that this is the embankment (with a flight of steps) in front of her grandmother’s house; if you stand at the top, you get a good view of the Kinta River.  Sybil’s grandmother – Chow Yoon Soo – was the second wife of Leong Eng Khean, and she lived at No. 8 Clayton Road. The house of course is no longer there. It was demolished and now standing in its place is Cititel Express. This picture was taken in 1950.

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November 2017

October 2017

September 2017

August 2017

“Hello? Is it me you’re looking for?”

By |2017-08-16T10:43:35+08:00August 16th, 2017|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , |

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Here’s another NST picture, showing the ‘hello girls’ (as they were called). These girls worked at the Ipoh Telephone Exchange once upon a time. Dewi (wearing a checkered dress), and her sister Jamilah (face towards to camera) both worked 6-hour shifts at the Exchange. This picture is dated 1st November 1953.

July 2017

June 2017

Exploring Ipoh on a trishaw

By |2017-06-21T09:09:58+08:00June 19th, 2017|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, People|Tags: |

 

re-mon_blogclick to enlarge

We thank Ruth Rollitt for this 1957 photograph. The lady in the trishaw is Mrs Iversen – yes, the same Iversen who built a number of iconic buildings in Ipoh (like the Telekom building along Cockman Street, the Geological Museum, as well as quite a few cinemas).

Do you see the building in the background? Recognise it? If you do recognise it, do let us know what it is…and WHERE it is 🙂

April 2017

March 2017

January 2017

Sharikat Sim Lim?

By |2017-01-23T16:53:23+08:00January 23rd, 2017|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town|

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Have you heard of this company before – Sharikat Sim Lim (M)? It used to be along Brewster Road (as seen in the picture above).

For those who are still staring at this picture in disbelief, yes…Brewster Road used to be a two-way street once….

We thank Chan Kok Keong for the above picture.

Ipoh By The River

By |2017-01-06T12:57:40+08:00January 6th, 2017|Categories: Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, nature, tourism|

fullsizerender29photo from: Lay Jin Chew

Here’s another river scene, from one side of the Hugh Low Bridge. Can you see the wooden bench near the lamp post? I doubt there’s such a thing there today. Even the bridge is different now. But don’t let all the changes discourage you from enjoying this nostalgic photograph.

December 2016

The way it used to be…

By |2016-12-16T10:44:50+08:00December 16th, 2016|Categories: childhood, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , |

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Looking at this picture (from Lay Jin Chew), I couldn’t help but wonder how much Ipoh’s landscape has changed over the years. Could that bridge (far left) be part of the Hugh Low Bridge, or part of the Birch Bridge? I would also like to draw your attention to the area on the left of the shop houses (other side of the bridge). Any idea what that building is?

November 2016

Remember ‘Paris Bakery’?

By |2016-12-08T09:26:22+08:00November 11th, 2016|Categories: childhood, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

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The photo doesn’t really show this once famous bakery, but you can see the sign on the wall (extreme right). I vaguely remember this bakery, which was a family-run business. One of the daughters (or maybe the grand daughter) was my classmate in primary school. Sadly, we lost touch in later years. I never got a chance to ask her about the history of this bakery. Does anyone know the story behind this famous shop? We thank Lay Jin Chew for this photograph.

 

We also received this photograph from Ruth Iversen Rollitt – showing the Paris Bakery Factory.

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The ‘Other Festival’ is back!

By |2016-11-10T10:44:33+08:00November 10th, 2016|Categories: Events, festivals/celebrations, Ipoh Town, tourism|Tags: , , , |

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Of late, Ipoh old town has been getting increasingly popular — it’s great, but everyone also goes to the same spaces for the same experiences.
We know there is plenty to learn of Ipoh old town, many more places and stories to explore and uncover. So we’ll be working with Doodle Malaysia to draw out a map — let’s bongkarkan all the secrets the place may hold. 

Read more here.

 So, mark your calendars, folks….this 13th – 20th November 2016 is going to be exciting!

A Parade in Ipoh Town, 1947

By |2016-11-02T14:22:47+08:00November 2nd, 2016|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, People|Tags: |

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From what we know, there was a parade in Ipoh town back in 1947 – in support of the Kuomintang. We believe the above picture (from Lay Jin Chew) was taken at the same parade, which ran through the streets of Ipoh. Can anyone guess which street this is? On that note, do you know what business Barlow & Co Ltd was?

October 2016

Old Town News…

By |2016-10-13T14:32:13+08:00October 13th, 2016|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, Restoration, tourism|Tags: |

Recognise this place?

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Familiar, right? Perhaps the next two pictures will give you more clues.


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In case you’re wondering why we put these up, this is just to show you what’s become of those food stalls in the area. They have their very own food court now….and as you can see, the area is so CLEAN! Hope it stays that way…

September 2016

August 2016

July 2016

Souvenir Shopping Bag

By |2016-07-13T10:27:26+08:00July 13th, 2016|Categories: childhood, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, tourism|

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From past blog posts, we’ve had Readers sharing their memories about some of the many smaller departmental stores in Ipoh. With the coming of hypermarkets and malls, these small businesses eventually folded. On that note, does anyone remember Angel Departmental Store? Do you remember where it was located?

June 2016

A WIN for heritage!

By |2016-06-29T14:33:34+08:00June 29th, 2016|Categories: Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, Restoration|

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We featured the above picture in a previous blog. Do you know what this looks like today? The pictures below are courtesy of Charlie Choong.

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Here’s more proof…that with a little hard work and determination (and love for heritage as well!), historical buildings like these CAN be restored (instead of being demolished).

May 2016

Tales from the Ho Yan Hor Museum grand opening…

By |2016-05-09T10:32:51+08:00May 9th, 2016|Categories: Events, history, Ipoh Town, Restoration, tourism|

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On the morning of 30th April 2016, Treacher Street was all abuzz with activity. That day marked the grand opening of the Ho Yan Hor Museum – a museum which tells the story of Ho Kai Cheong, who began as an operator of a humble tea stall and later became a famous entrepreneur and philanthropist.

People from all walks of life were there, some even came from overseas. As can be seen from the picture, many were fascinated with our vehicle collection 🙂 We were happy to have helped in one way or another for the restoration of the Ho Yan Hor Museum. More about this event can be read at this link.

April 2016

Top marks for restoration :)

By |2016-04-24T19:26:30+08:00April 24th, 2016|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Restoration|

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On a car-free morning in Ipoh, I just happen to pass through Hugh Low Street and noticed this building. It’s at the corner of Hugh Low Street and Jalan Che Tak. I’m not sure what building this is…but I’ll say kudos to their restoration work! Does anyone know who / which company owns this building? For that matter, what was this building originally used for?

March 2016

Do You See What I See?

By |2016-03-31T10:31:56+08:00March 28th, 2016|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, Restoration, tourism|

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Do you recognise these panels? They can be found on the four sides of the Birch Clock tower. Still wondering what I’m talking about? Well, the next time you pass by the clock tower, take a closer look 🙂

THE J W W BIRCH MEMORIAL CLOCK TOWER PANELS
The Growth of Civilization.
The following is a description of the figures represented in the painted panels:
PANELS A AND B: Prehistoric Times to the Time of Christ.
PANEL A NORTH.

The Stone Age – A Hunter.
A Fisherman.
A Woman spinning.
The Iron Age – Man and Woman.
The Early Eastern Peoples – A Nubian with gold and ivory.
A Chaldean Astrologer.
A Woman making pottery.
An Egyptian.
An Assyrian.
A Persian.
PANEL B WEST.
The Eastern Meditteranean – Judaism.
Moses.
David
A Phonecian.
A woman representing the Agean civilization.
The Far East – Confucius.
Buddha.
Lao Tzu.
Greece and Rome – A woman representing Greek Art.
Alexander the Great.
A Greek Philosopher.
Augustus.
PANELS C AND D – From the Time of Christ to the Present Day.
PANEL C SOUTH
The Byzantine Empire – Constantine the Great.
Islam – Mohammed (pbh).
The Age of Chivalry – A Crusader.
The Age of Faith – St. Clara.
Gothic Art – A Bishop with a model of a Cathedral.
The Renaissance – Science – Galileo.
Art – Michael Angelo.
Literature – Vittoria Colonna.
Enterprise – Columbus.
The Reformation – Luther.
The Elizabethan Age – Shakespeare.
PANEL D EAST – Modern Science, Art and Social Services.
Physics – Newton.
Medicine – Harvey.
The use of steam – Watt.
Easter Art – Embroiderer.
Music – Beethoven.
Engineering – Stephenson.
Photography – Daguerre.
Social Service – Miss Nightingale.
Natural Science – Darwin.
Electricity – Edison.
Humane Surgery – Lister.

Comfort Food?

By |2016-03-24T15:24:52+08:00March 24th, 2016|Categories: food, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town|

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Some go for sweets, some go for salty snacks. Yet there are others who crave something like this (picture above) – Dry Curry Noodles!

Our photographer had this (at RM 5.30 per serving) from the Ma Jie curry mee stall in Restoran Yee Lock, opposite Bridal Collection along Anderson Road.

So, dear Readers……what’s YOUR comfort food?

What’s Happening Here?

By |2016-03-14T10:11:05+08:00March 14th, 2016|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage|

Sometime ago, we featured this building – the former Oriental Hotel, which was turned into an electrical store.

One of our readers, Charlie Choong, sent us the following photographs recently.

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Looks like the electrical store is closing down….or perhaps they are relocating….we don’t know. Does anyone know what’s going on?

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February 2016

A Monday Mystery For You!

By |2016-02-29T14:52:11+08:00February 29th, 2016|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Restoration|

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I’m sure you have driven past this building in New Town Ipoh. This is the side view of a former hotel – which is now an electrical store. This building is opposite the Kamdar textile store, just in case you’re wondering. I’m sure some of you already know which building I’m talking about. What we would like to know is what those Chinese characters on the upper wall mean. Below is a close up of the words.

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A Tribute To One Half Of The Dynamic Seenivasagam Duo

By |2016-02-19T09:39:14+08:00February 19th, 2016|Categories: history, Ipoh Town, Memories, orbituary, People|

It was a solemn and heart-wrenching occasion, as the people of Ipoh (and even from others towns in Perak) came to pay their last respects to D R Seenivasagam. Some estimate the crowd of mourners to be well into the tens of thousands!

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We’d love to hear from anyone who witnessed this event – perhaps you could also tell us who these gentlemen (pictured above) are. I’m sure they must be some of the many VIPs who came to D R’s residence to pay their respects.

And just so you know we were not exaggerating about the funeral crowd, the picture below was taken during the street procession, which passed through Brewster Road.

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We thank Chan Kok Keong for sharing these photographs with us.

January 2016

The Finished Product!

By |2016-01-15T16:15:47+08:00January 15th, 2016|Categories: Events, Exhibitions, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, Restoration|Tags: , , |

Sometime last year we gave all of you hints about a project of ours – at No. 1 Treacher Street (Jalan Bijih Timah) in Old Town. Yes, the blue building next door to Han Chin Pet Soo.

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The story is in today’s Star Metro (15/1/2016) – “Telling A Tale Of Tea”. This new exhibit will be fully open to the public by Chinese New Year. Stay tuned for more updates!

December 2015

September 2015

Preserving heritage buildings…a burden?

By |2015-09-25T18:44:49+08:00September 25th, 2015|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, Restoration, tourism|

metp_my_2509_pg2_yvonneleemy_9picture courtesy of Star Publications

We admit that it was not easy, but through much hard work and determination we managed to restore the Han Chin Villa (Han Chin Pet Soo) and turn it into a museum. As can be seen in the above picture, the restored Villa stands proudly amidst the other shops. Our up-and-coming project is the blue building next to it (a secret we shall reveal in the near future, so stay tuned!).

From what today’s Star newspaper says, restoring / maintaining such buildings can be a burden to the owner(s). What do YOU think? We’d like to hear your views on the matter.

You can read the full Star article here.

Tapestry at Sarang Paloh, Ipoh

By |2015-09-22T16:43:22+08:00September 22nd, 2015|Categories: concerts, Events, Ipoh Town, tourism|Tags: , |

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ONE NIGHT ONLY!

Tapestry performs for the first time in Ipoh at the Event Hall of the Sarang Paloh Heritage Hotel. Come experience an evening of songs in this beautiful and striking heritage space.

Friday, 9 October 2015 @ 8:30 PM

Tickets are priced at RM35 (free seating), and can be purchased from Sarang Paloh, and also from our website:

 http://www.wearetapestry.com/index.php/tapestry-events/

or, you can follow us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/events/1450288048610502/

July 2015

Town Planning British Malaya, 1921-1929

By |2015-07-08T14:34:35+08:00July 6th, 2015|Categories: Books, history, Ipoh Town, People|Tags: |

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This book provides a fresh perspective and deepens previous studies of his [Charles Compton Reade] town planning ideas…..Charles Reade’s obscure and unattributed position in the history of Malayan town planning is now accorded its due recognition…a pioneer and founder of the town planning service in British Malaya (1921-1929).

 

Here’s a book by Kamalruddin Shamsudin (KLDIN) who was the Deputy Director General of the Federal Department of Town and Country Planning in Malaysia (2006-2014). Since the 1990s, he has both written and given talks about Reade’s contributions to Malaya during the British Administration.

Tentatively, the launch date for this book will be on 15th August. The book will be available after this date, but details will be confirmed later. We’ll keep you updated!

 

June 2015

May 2015

Who Remembers the ‘Nautilus Inn’?

By |2015-05-15T14:04:10+08:00May 15th, 2015|Categories: food, Ipoh Town, Memories|

cafe_receiptreceipt courtesy of: Charlie Choong

 

Back in the 1980s, there was a place called The Nautilus Inn along Leong Sin Nam Street. As shown in the receipt (above), a seafood cocktail cost $3.90 – it’s probably 3 times the price today!

Does anyone remember Nautilus Inn? Who owned this place? What was their specialty?

Of Hidden Paths and Secret Tunnels!

By |2015-04-30T15:41:42+08:00May 4th, 2015|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage|

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Yes, folks. This trap door opens up to a tunnel!

The door can be found in the court room floor of the Ipoh High Court building, and it leads to the Town Hall. During the Emergency, it was used to moved prisoners in temporary lock ups in the Town Hall (which at that time was a police station) to the court house. These prisoners were from the Taiping and Batu Gajah prisons. Today however, there is only a few metres of tunnel left as it has been blocked.

 

April 2015

‘Lady Justice’, at the Ipoh High Court

By |2015-04-29T16:06:08+08:00April 29th, 2015|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, Restoration|

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“Lady Justice is most often depicted with a set of scales typically suspended from her left hand, upon which she measures the strengths of a case’s support and opposition.She is also often seen carrying a double-edged sword in her right hand, symbolizing the power of Reason and Justice, which may be wielded either for or against any party. Since the 15th century, Lady Justice has often been depicted wearing a blindfold. The blindfold represents objectivity, in that justice is or should be meted out objectively, without fear or favour, regardless of money, wealth, power, or identity; blind justice and impartiality.”

This icon can be seen on the outer wall of the first floor, of the Ipoh High Court (the wall facing the flag poles).

March 2015

Han Chin Pet Soo – Featured in the Star Metro!

By |2015-03-12T09:30:26+08:00March 12th, 2015|Categories: Exhibitions, Ipoh Town|

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Once an exclusive place meant only for the higher class tin miners and triad members, the Han Chin Pet Soo (Han Chin Villa) at Jalan Bijeh Timah in Ipoh is now opening its doors to the public.

The villa underwent a 15-month restoration work and has been turned into an exhibition centre that showcases the history of the Han Chin Miners’ Club and the tin-mining glory days of yesteryear.

The centre’s curator and project manager, Ian Anderson, said the villa was formerly a double-storey building before it was rebuilt into the three-storey structure it is today.

(more can be read here – http://www.thestar.com.my/Metro/Community/2015/03/11/Remembering-the-past-Ipoh-folk-proud-to-work-together-to-showcase-their-unique-legacy/)

 

We’re not ones who blow our own trumpet, but we are proud of this project of ours.

For those of you who haven’t visited Han Chin Pet Soo / Han Chin Villa do make your reservations at: www.ipohworld.org/reservation

 

 

February 2015

January 2015

Winners of the Singing Contest

By |2015-01-16T16:39:46+08:00January 16th, 2015|Categories: childhood, concerts, Events, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , |

We all know Elvis Presley had his share of impersonators; some were almost as good as the ‘King’ himself  – with the deep voice AND the gyrating hips!

Frank Sinatra (or Ol’ Blue Eyes, as some know him) had his share of impersonators too. Speaking of which, does anyone remember the Frank Sinatra singing contest back in 1959? It was held at the Lido Theatre…perhaps this picture might refresh your memory!

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If you’re one of those in the photograph, do share with us your memories!

Happy Ponggal!

By |2015-01-15T16:49:35+08:00January 15th, 2015|Categories: festivals/celebrations, greetings, Ipoh Town, tourism|

All kinds of everything: Shoppers buying items for the Ponggal fest at  Jalan Lahat.

‘As Indians prepare for Ponggal, which falls today, earthen pots were snapped up at Little India in Jalan Lahat recently.’

Shoppers had the choice to either buy the plain pots or those with colourful designs.

Besides the pots, other essential items for the harvest festival that shoppers bought were sugarcane, milk, brown sugar, firewood, cashew nuts, raisins and Indian traditional sweets.

Wooden spatulas to cook the sweet rice were also in demand.

Ponggal, which is celebrated over three days, is a harvest festival marked by Indians all over the world.

The festival is to mark the auspicious month of Thai in the Tamil calendar.

It is held to mark the harvest of crops and also as a special thanksgiving to God, the sun, the earth and the cow that produces milk.

More can be found here.

December 2014

Anderson Road in Ruins?

By |2014-12-10T15:29:34+08:00December 10th, 2014|Categories: Events, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , , |

Much has been said about preserving our heritage buildings in and around the Kinta Valley. But alas, profit always seem to over ride conservation efforts.

The following photos (taken this afternoon) is yet another incident whereby pre-war shop houses are forced to make way for more modern structures….

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One of our local dailies covered this story too. I’m sure some of you would have seen the demolition taking place – along Anderson Road (Jalan Raja Musa Aziz).

November 2014

Family Outing

By |2014-11-11T15:23:32+08:00November 11th, 2014|Categories: childhood, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , |

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Back then, some folks in Ipoh counted the cinema halls and the famous Ipoh Race Course as part of their usual hang-outs (of course this was before Parkson and Aeon/Jusco came about!). What I found interesting about the above photo – of the race course nonetheless – is the outside of the Grand Stand. Note the potted plants along the steps. I wonder if the Grand Stand looks the same now. Anyone been to the race course lately?

I believe the little girl in the photo is none other than our donor Ruth Iversen Rollitt. 🙂

October 2014

For the Rotarians out there!

By |2014-10-31T16:07:45+08:00October 31st, 2014|Categories: history, Ipoh Town|Tags: |

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We’ve featured pictures and articles from various clubs and associations before. This time, we’d like to present (what we believe to be) a page from the Rotary Newsletter. The picture below is a close-up view of the Ipoh Branch meeting details.

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Rotarians out there might recognise some of the names. We thank Nicholas Jennings for the picture.

September 2014

August 2014

Going Back in Time!

By |2014-08-06T15:56:56+08:00August 6th, 2014|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, movies, Restoration|Tags: |

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This is not an “artist’s impression”…it is the real thing 😉 This is indeed the Ruby Cinema – all done up for a recent advertisement by Petronas. For those of you who didn’t know, this is what the Ruby Cinema used to look like once upon a time. Also take note of the old movie posters along the side of the building.

July 2014

Time for some Bubur Cha-Cha!

By |2014-07-24T17:42:47+08:00July 24th, 2014|Categories: food, Ipoh Town|

This stall is along Cowan Street….some of you may be familiar with this place.

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It’s known for their desserts – or thong sui, as the locals call it. One of them is the famous Bubur Cha-cha (pictured below). Our photographer paid RM 1.70 for this 🙂

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Craving for Nasi Kandar?

By |2014-07-03T17:12:29+08:00July 3rd, 2014|Categories: food, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , |

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According to our photographer (Leong), this place is near the Birch Memorial Clock Tower. Judging by the crowd, I’d say this is a very popular stall 🙂

Could this be the same Nasi Kandar stall which once started out under a shady tree in the same vicinity? We’ve heard stories about the old stall; one tale states that a former judge from the nearby court house was a regular patron – often sending a ‘runner’ to pack some lunch for him.

June 2014

Rojak!

By |2014-06-24T16:17:40+08:00June 24th, 2014|Categories: food, Ipoh Town|

Could this be the once famous Ipoh Padang Rojak stall?

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We think it is….perhaps the Foodies out there might know better 😉

Ipoh’s Heritage Trail is Full of Surprises

By |2014-06-22T17:00:17+08:00June 22nd, 2014|Categories: Ipoh Town, tourism|Tags: |

Yes, you really never know what you might find to surprise you on our heritage trail. This delight was more than a little surprising just after we passed Concubine Lane at the Treacher Street (Jalam Bijeh Timah) end.

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Yes it is, it really is – a water meter right in the middle of the pavement! At first I thought someone had thrown it away, but no it is firmly fixed in position. Thank goodness I saw it otherwise my last night’s  little jaunt into Old Town and its heritage may have turned out differently.

Dare I ask what are the “authorities” doing to produce such a monstrosity?

By the way, speaking of heritage trails, there are now a range of printable Heritage Trail Maps available on ipohWorld’s database, including Ipoh Trail Map 1 in English, Malay and Japanese, Ipoh Trail Map 2, Gopeng Trail Map, Batu Gajah Driving Trail map, Kuala Kangsar Trail. Please use then as that is what they are there for.

But my apologies are in order for we failed to include this water meter in Ipoh Trail Map 1.

Happy Trailing.

 

 

 

Tai Seng Restaurant

By |2014-06-11T15:38:28+08:00June 11th, 2014|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories|

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Some of you out there may remember this restaurant. I wonder if it’s still there….or, perhaps it’s been replaced by another business? According to the images on this souvenir matchbox, Tai Seng Restaurant had two branches within Ipoh – one at Theatre Street and another at Green Lane. If anyone know more, we’d love to hear from you 🙂

May 2014

Something is Going Up in Panglima Lane

By |2014-05-29T17:41:59+08:00May 29th, 2014|Categories: Ipoh Town, Restoration, tourism|Tags: , |

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Some years ago this site held two of the original Panglima Lane homes from 1893. Then one literally fell down into a pile of bricks. Fortunately no one was hurt. Then because the second one was considered dangerous it was also taken down.

For a while it became a sort of recreation site but soon the Lalang took over and it became an eyesore.

Just in the last few days a team of contractors moved in and this is what the site looked like this morning.

From the position of the concrete and reinforcement it looks like a double unit is going up but the big question is what will they look like from the Lane? As this is one of the main attractions of the Ipoh Heritage Trail, have the Town Council insisted on an old style matching facia to blend in with the old homes still there or have they approved some monstrous, faceless structure as they have done so often before?

Time will tell but I know what I would like to see.

Sad but True

By |2014-05-11T19:56:16+08:00May 11th, 2014|Categories: Ipoh Town, tourism|Tags: |

The Ipoh Railway station forecourt  underwent a major renovation recently and one of the first things the tourist sees when he arrives is a large round fountain area surrounded by nicely constructed boundaries which hold engraved pictures and words about the delights of Perak. I took friends down there and here is a sample of what I found. They are all as bad as each other.

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This is a picture of Cunung Lang and the original colour can be seen at the top.

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Now we proudly present Ipoh!

Pasir Salak

Pasir Salak!

Pangkor

And finally Pangkor Island.

Now I promise you that these were taken this afternoon in the bright sunshine and they have not been meddled with in PhotoShop or in any other way.

Now it is not for me to judge but I do believe that somebody in authority should ask if the money was well spent.

What do you think?

A Malay Funeral

By |2014-05-02T16:06:01+08:00May 2nd, 2014|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , |

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Yes, this is indeed a Malay Funeral procession. This was taken, with kind permission, from the Imperial War Museum London. The photo was taken from a colour transparency, back in the 1950s. If you look closely you can see the Ipoh East Post Office in the background – that should give you a clue about the location.

We thank Mario Francis Armadass for giving us the link.

April 2014

Did you see the Merdeka Float Parade?

By |2014-04-09T15:57:22+08:00April 9th, 2014|Categories: Events, festivals/celebrations, history, Ipoh Town, Memories, tourism|Tags: , , |

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From the pictures, we think that this float was one of the many at a Merdeka Parade back in 1967. Does anyone remember this parade? If you do, where was it held – at the Stadium, or along the main streets of the town?

Also notice the old Malay used in the description and the labels on the float.

March 2014

December 2013

What’s Happening at Sam Tet?

By |2013-12-13T16:35:26+08:00December 13th, 2013|Categories: Events, history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|

We’re hoping some alumni from Sam Tet, Ipoh, would be able to help us out with this photograph (see below).

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This was taken from the 90th Anniversary Magazine of St Michael’s Church (which is next to Sam Tet School). Does anyone remember when this photograph was taken? We don’t seem to have a caption for this photo, so we’re hoping someone out there could fill in some details for us.

We look forward to meeting some former Sam Tet students on our blog 😉

November 2013

Surprise!

By |2013-11-08T16:15:13+08:00November 8th, 2013|Categories: childhood, Events, games, history, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , |

In our previous post, we had a reply from the brother of the pretty lady sitting on the sports car. We now know her as Joan Lau. After some searching, we found a picture of Lawrence Lau (see below).

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The caption for the above picture is as follows: “Adrian Boudville looking on, Barry Jansz acting as Time Keeper and Lawrence Lau acting as Starter.”

This was taken on 18th August 1971 at the Ipoh Railway Station. Anyone remember this event?

October 2013

Sri Perak Darul Ridzuan

By |2013-10-11T14:25:48+08:00October 11th, 2013|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, Restoration|Tags: , |

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I remember passing this building quite often on my way to St Michael’s Institution. But I never really paid attention to what it was. All I know is that this is the Sri Perak building. Any idea what’s inside? Was it one of those government offices? Or, was it like the present UTC (former Super Kinta)?

We thank Hasbi for this picture-postcard.

September 2013

MORE Scenes from Brewster Road

By |2013-09-18T14:45:48+08:00September 18th, 2013|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , |

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One look and most of you can already guess what this iconic building is. Of course, so much has changed now: the small field in front of this cinema is no longer there; instead there’s a row of food stalls. Also, right next to the cinema is one of the entrances of Sam Tet School. Lately, I did notice that there seems to be some construction going on at this very site. Are they restoring/renovating Odeon?

Photograph courtesy of John McAuley, a former serviceman who worked in Malaya in the 1950s.

From the Days When Ipoh Had Style

By |2013-09-07T14:12:54+08:00September 7th, 2013|Categories: history, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, nature, People|Tags: , , |

Blog iverside

Just look at this grand old postcard from  the 1920’s. Recognise the place?

Well I guess most of you will not be able to pin this down, but as the postcard caption shows, it is the People’s Park, Ipoh. Historically the land was gazetted as the ‘People’s Park’, a gift from the government to the people of Ipoh. At the time the land was valued at $70,000 and was used to display a fantastic collection of Chinese plants presented by Yau Tet Shin. The Park was officially opened on the same day as the Birch Memorial Clock Tower was dedicated in 1909.

Today we have what is known as the beautified park, with its red yellow and blue plastic etc. For me I prefer Mother  Historically Nature as it used to be.

What about you?

Something to remember…

By |2013-09-02T14:55:21+08:00September 2nd, 2013|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: |

…and that ‘something’ is none other than the ‘ol Radio & General Trading Co Ltd!

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So, what’s happened to this store? Was it taken over by another company? Or, has this row of shop houses been demolished (like the many unfortunate ones around Ipoh Town)?

This photograph was probably taken in the early 60s (but we could be wrong). We’re hoping someone out there could tell us more about Radio & General.

August 2013

Dressing ‘Ipoh’ Style?

By |2013-08-14T08:27:46+08:00August 12th, 2013|Categories: childhood, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People, tourism|

IpohGals

One look at this photograph and you will notice that not only were the Ipoh Girls pretty, they also dressed in style 😉

If you look close enough, you can probably deduce where in Ipoh Town these buildings are. But we’d like to draw your attention to the sign behind the lady with the handbag – ‘Dress Maker by Chan”. Is this tailor/dressmaker still around?

[We thank Charlie Choong for this photograph]

July 2013

What is Happening Here?

By |2013-07-27T13:55:09+08:00July 27th, 2013|Categories: Ipoh Town, Restoration, tourism|

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A couple of days ago I happened by chance to meet up with a group of KL tour guides in Old Town. They were with a Perak member of our Tour Guides’ Association and I joined up with them for a while to tell the heritage story as per ipohWorld.

When we were close to Kong Heng they noticed the above buildings, just a couple of shops away, all behind new fencing and asked what was happening. I had to say I did not know but would try to find out. My guess was that they will be demolished! They were shocked and asked why. I have no answer, do you?

The buildings include the old Modern Photo Shop on the left (Market Street) and continue round the corner of La Beaute and the two shops next door in Leech Street.

The signs on the fencing reads RENT!

Can anyone offer me a clue as to the future of this famous old part of the town?

Ipoh’s Finest Transport – The Trichair

By |2013-07-26T09:22:14+08:00July 26th, 2013|Categories: Ipoh Town, People|Tags: , , , |

New Transport blog

Yes here it is having just passed over the Hugh Low Bridge. Proceeding at a steady, somewhat leisurely, pace, the Trichair turned left and looked as if it was going to the nearby market. The photo was taken around 10.00 am on 23 July 2013 when I overtook them on the bridge and having pulled over sharply, jumped out of my car and caught them with the iPhone. They were totally unfazed with my performance, with the lady lightly gripping the side bars – completely comfortable in her plastic chair. By the time I had got back in my car they had disappeared into the traffic..

With the Trishaw no longer allowed to ply for fares in Ipoh, the Trichair is clearly the way ahead for those who don’t have cars, but I wonder what MBI would say if a few dozen of these hit the streets.

Vendors Outside the Cinema

By |2013-07-24T15:09:51+08:00July 24th, 2013|Categories: childhood, Ipoh Town, Memories, movies, People, tourism|Tags: , , , |

john macauley005a

We thank John McAuley – who was once part of the British Military serving in Malaya, back in the 1950s – for this photograph. Yes, folks it’s none other than the Majestic Cinema :). Although it doesn’t show up clearly, but if you zoom in you can actually see some vendors just outside the entrance of the cinema. Anyone remember them? What did they sell?

June 2013

A Day Without the Haze…

By |2013-06-26T16:29:01+08:00June 26th, 2013|Categories: history, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , |

Yes, folks – this is none other than Anderson Road!

john macauley005g

Taken in the mid 1950s, you can see that not only is the traffic light…the skies are clear too! Here’s hoping that the haze situation resolves itself soon.

By the way, anyone know what building that is on the far right corner? From the words, it looks like a hotel….

What Does It Say?

By |2013-06-21T15:12:45+08:00June 21st, 2013|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage, Restoration|Tags: |

“Sited at the key junction of Hugh Low Street, Gopeng Road, Tambun Road and Brewster Road it welcomes travellers to Ipoh from all directions.”

Yes, we’re talking about the Sultan Yussuf Fountain (see picture below). While many of you have interesting stories about this unique landmark, we’d like to draw your attention to the plaque. Any idea what was written on it? As far as I know, that plaque is no longer there (or perhaps it’s hidden among the flowers?).

fountainIpoh

We thank Edwin Seibel for this photograph.

The ‘Magnificent’ 7!

By |2013-06-19T16:20:44+08:00June 19th, 2013|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, Restoration|Tags: , |

john macauley007d

No, I’m not referring to the famous cowboy series. I’m talking about this row of shops along Hugh Low Street. At present, seven of these shops have been painted according to the seven colours of the rainbow. This picture however was taken back in the 1950s.

We’re not offering any prizes for guessing, but all the same can you name any/or all of  the seven shops in particular?

We thank John McAuley for this picture.

Can you spot them?

By |2013-06-12T13:47:49+08:00June 12th, 2013|Categories: childhood, history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage, People|Tags: , |

john macauley003a

This isn’t a hard one to guess. Yes, it’s another photograph of Ipoh Motors Ltd. What I’m curious about is the street vendor – far right of this photograph (click to enlarge). What was he selling at that time? Can you also spot the petrol pump (below the sign Fargo Truck)?

This photograph is part of John McAuley’s collection. McAuley served in Ipoh in the mid 1950s.

May 2013

The old man and his wares

By |2013-05-29T08:22:29+08:00May 29th, 2013|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|

wednesday_blog_edited

Here we have a cigarette vendor somewhere around the Ipoh Market. This photo was taken back in 1972 by Cheang Kum Seng, ARPS, a local professional photographer who has kindly allowed us to publish it. Do you recognise this man? Perhaps someone out there has seen him back in the 70s. I wonder what’s become of him now….

Rare Sightings…

By |2013-05-08T14:56:26+08:00May 8th, 2013|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|

…no, we’re not talking about UFOs! Look closely at the shop house in the middle. Yes, the shop that says ‘Chop Thong Heng’…

john macauley007e

Are those petrol pumps? I’ve never come across such a scene before. Does anyone remember these? On another note, does anyone recognise the row of shop houses or the street?

This was taken back in 1956/57 by John McAuley, a former British serviceman.

April 2013

Ipoh’s Common Folks?

By |2013-04-05T16:12:59+08:00April 5th, 2013|Categories: childhood, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|

Sometimes we’re so caught up with ourselves that we don’t ‘stop to smell the roses’ 😉 Here’s a look at what used to be a common sight in Ipoh – probably in the 1950s or 1960s. I do wonder if such a sight is present in this day and age…..but, like many of us I too am sometimes guilty of not observing my surroundings….

We thank Keith Nelson for this gem!

people

March 2013

Do You Remember…

By |2013-03-22T15:55:58+08:00March 22nd, 2013|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, movies, Natural Heritage, Restoration|Tags: , , |

isisTheatre

…what the Isis Theatre looked like? My generation have most likely never heard of this cinema hall. We’re more familiar with it’s ‘new’ name – Rex! Yes, for those of you who don’t already know, Isis was renamed Rex when the Shaw Brothers renovated it 😉

Which Corner is This?

By |2013-03-18T16:26:14+08:00March 18th, 2013|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town|

blog-ideas

Based on feedback from our previous blog posts, we know some of our Readers know Ipoh SO WELL that they give us such detailed answers for every question we throw at them! Thank you for all the feedback and encouragement 🙂

Here’s yet another puzzle for you – do you know which street corner this is? I don’t recall seeing such a large shady tree anywhere along the main road of Ipoh today. Perhaps the building will give you some clue(s).

“Long Live the Queen”

By |2013-03-11T16:36:07+08:00March 11th, 2013|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, tourism|Tags: , , |

arch_brewsterroad

This arch was put up by the Perak Chinese Celebration Committee (you can vaguely make out the fine print if you zoom in).

Today, there’s still an arch above Brewster Road (roughly the same location as the above picture states). I wonder who decorates it now? Does the Celebration Committee still exist?

Ipoh’s First Waiters’ Race

By |2013-03-09T11:37:28+08:00March 9th, 2013|Categories: festivals/celebrations, ipoh, Ipoh Town, People, tourism|Tags: , , , , |

ScreenHunter_09 Mar. 08 22.35

 

Despite Ipoh’s long romance with all things food-related and the abundance of hotels, restaurants and clubs in town, Ipoh has never before taken part in the international tradition of the waiters’ race. On the 25th of May 2013, that is about to change.

Organised jointly by the Ipoh City Council (MBI), Perak Tourism Association (PTA), Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH), Perak Chapter, and the International Waiters’ Race Agency, Ipoh will be hosting its first International Waiters’ Race in D.R. Seenivasagam Park.

The Waiters’ Race (www.waitersrace.com) is a tradition originating in France, created to exhibit the skills of the famous French garcons by challenging them to race a street course while balancing a tray of beverages on the palm of one hand.

The earliest photographs of a Waiters’ Race were taken in the London Race of 1901, but the French roots of the race are over a century old.

Today, Waiters’ Races are held all over the world, including several held in Malaysia in the past. This is, however, the first time one will be held in Perak.

Demonstrations of ice-carving, flower-arranging, food-carving and a barista competition in coffee decoration will be held, along with a mini-treasure hunt, children’s race, parade of Perak school bands, and cheerleader demonstration for younger participants.

Over one hundred waiters and waitresses from Perak’s favourite eateries will be running the 1 ½ kilometer course through the park in three different races.

Visiting participants will be included from Ipoh’s sister city in Japan, Fukuoka, and Ipoh’s “friendship cities” Medan, Pusan, Hangzhou and Guangzhou.

Each runner will attempt to gain the fastest time while balancing their tray on one hand, without spilling any items. Running alone is worthless; winners have to arrive with a full tray or close to it.

The first race will be a Full Service Waiters’ Race where competitors run in traditional waiters’ attire over a challenging course including the steps leading to the bridge and a turn through the Japanese Garden.

The Quick Service Waiters’ Race will include hotel students as well as professionals and allow running shoes. Both races are open to men and women, prizes to be given separately to the best gentleman and best lady.

The third race will be an Amateurs’ mixed relay with teams comprising two men and two women each, dress code open to any attire.

Organizers hope to make this an annual event, celebrating Ipoh’s waiters, waitresses and culinary heritage for locals and tourists alike.

ScreenHunter_10 Mar. 08 22.36

In & Around Ipoh Town

By |2013-03-06T16:15:38+08:00March 6th, 2013|Categories: childhood, concerts, Exhibitions, Ipoh Town, Memories, People, Perak heritage Society, tourism|Tags: , , |

Family_0015

Here’s a nice one from a family album. We thank Alexander for this gem. According to him, the girl (standing) is his grandmother Madam Ursula. Behind her are her parents Mr Arokiasamy and Mrs Iruthayamary. The little one on the car is Ursula’s sister Kolanda Theresa. Incidentally, Mr Arokiasamy was involved in the textile & liquor business.

Anyone else have similar memories of their childhood to share? We’d love to hear from you 🙂

February 2013

…at the corner of Brewster Road and Cockman Street…

By |2013-02-15T17:16:54+08:00February 15th, 2013|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage, tourism|Tags: , |

Eastern Hotel, Ipoh

Special thanks to Ruth Rollitt for the one – yes, you read it right….this is none other than the Eastern Hotel. This was taken in the 1940s; according the Ruth, he father (Danish architect B M Iversen) had an office here. Today, the facade seems so different – and the hotel is now known as D’Eastern Hotel (last I checked)!

Finished Today, Ipoh’s Latest Artwork

By |2013-02-10T23:30:59+08:00February 10th, 2013|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

Mural 1 Mural 2 Mural 3 Mural 4

Well folkjs they were promised for the New Year and here they are, the last brush strokes being co,pleted just a few hours ago. They may be found between Hugh Low and Hume Streets across the road from  the multicoloured shophouses in Hugh Low Street. Maybe this picture will give you a better idea of location.

Mural 5

We thank Charlie Choong for keeping his finger on the pulse and alerting us to these.

 

Can You See It?

By |2013-02-08T15:38:20+08:00February 8th, 2013|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, Restoration|

Ipoh building 4

See that little circle below the arch? If you look closely, you can make out the Freemason symbol. This was probably one of the buildings used by the masons before a permanent one was built (along Tiger Lane, next to the Royal Perak Golf Club). Last I checked, the building was still there….but I didn’t take notice of the symbol. I do wonder: is it still in place or has it been removed?

December 2012

Can You See It?

By |2012-12-21T16:33:22+08:00December 21st, 2012|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , |

Some may call it artistic…some might say it’s just a badly angled photograph. But if you look closely, you will notice a fountain in the middle of a roundabout. Familiar? To those who are still squinting, this is none other than the Chamberlain Road Fountain 🙂

We thank Ko-chi Wai for this 1963 picture.

Congratulations for a job well done

By |2012-12-16T18:40:50+08:00December 16th, 2012|Categories: Ipoh Town, People, Restoration|Tags: , , , , |

I have chosen to feature this photo today to honout the owner, Mr. Lim of the Lim Kopi kopitiam in Hugh Low Street, who has done an outstanding restoration job on this building, inside and out. For those of you who are not aware this is the de Silva building in Belfield Street, Old Town, Ipoh which was derelict less than a year ago.

If only there were more owners like him.

Dying Tree? A Report by Ipoh Echo

By |2012-12-08T20:46:59+08:00December 8th, 2012|Categories: Ipoh Town, nature|Tags: |

Noting the concern of some of ipohworld’s loyal followers about the apparent near-death state of the famous Ipoh Tree in the Station gardens(!) I contacted the Ipoh Echo with a request that they investigate.

James Gough immediately swung into action and today (8 December 2012, posted a report on the Echo Website at http://ipohecho.com.my/v2/2012/12/08/dying-ipoh-tree/.

Basically it appears that this is a normal situation from which the tree will recover. The report tells us:

“A check with MBI’s Director for Landscape and Recreation, Encik Meor Abdullah Zaidi Meor Razali dispelled any fear of the tree dying. Meor stated that the tree was undergoing a wintering season or ‘musim luroh’ when the tree sheds its leaves before growing new ones. “This had happened to the tree at Taman DR a year ago”.

Do read the whole report so that you are fully in the picture.

 

 

156, Hugh Low Street, Ipoh

By |2012-12-07T10:47:27+08:00December 7th, 2012|Categories: childhood, history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , , |

From what our donor (Ko-chi Wai) tells us, this is a “view from inside Choon Seng shop house along 156 Hugh Low Street, ground floor front. Shows the structure of the horizontal sliding metal grill/shutter door, and an old heavy-duty weigh (in green, left bottom). My brother, sister and myself on the old Honda cub.”

This picture was taken in 1979. I wonder if the shop house is still there….perhaps another establishment has taken over? Those of you familiar with the layout of Hugh Low Street might be able to tell us more 🙂

November 2012

Once Upon A Time….

By |2012-11-14T13:59:46+08:00November 14th, 2012|Categories: childhood, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , |

…such a scene (picture above) was a common sight around Ipoh Town. I never had a pair of striped pajamas, but I do remember (as a child) walking about in cartoon-themed pajamas and bed-hair! This cute picture was sent to us by Ko-chi Wai, who also included this message:

My mum (Lau Siew Hwa), my uncle, and my cousin on the stairs at the side of the Rex Cinema building. On the right one can see the rear part of the row of shop-houses facing Hugh Low St. where my mum’s family stayed in one till late 1990s. One can see the back doors to the shop-houses, as well as the small trap doors at the bottom where the “night soil” buckets were placed. Taken in 1959.

Ipoh’s Uniquely Designed Fountain

By |2012-11-09T15:11:58+08:00November 9th, 2012|Categories: childhood, history, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage, nature, tourism|Tags: , , , |

Since this fountain was erected, many Ipoh-ites have posed for pictures at this very roundabout. I suppose it was possible back then when there wasn’t much traffic – imagine doing photo shoots here in this day and age!

And what about those buildings in the background? Any idea what they are?

How Well Do You Know Station Road, Ipoh?

By |2012-11-05T16:40:31+08:00November 5th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Restoration|Tags: , , , , |

As most of you can guess, this is Station Road. I’m guessing this picture was taken in the 50s (I could be wrong though).

We’d like to draw your attention to the row of shops on the right. What we’re trying to find out is: what was the shop on the extreme right (next to Charles Grenier)?

This picture was sent to us by Nicholas Jennings.

October 2012

The Chua Cheng Bok Building

By |2016-12-07T11:44:45+08:00October 19th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage, Restoration|Tags: , , |

 

This was taken off a postcard; the date on the stamp says 1938, so we think the picture was taken a few years earlier.

Nevertheless, on the far left of the picture is the sign that reads as Huttenbach, Lazarus & Sons Ltd. Did any other business take up residence at the Chua Cheng Bok building?

September 2012

August 2012

The ‘Round Market’ Saga

By |2012-08-03T12:31:12+08:00August 3rd, 2012|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Restoration|Tags: , , |

It was early in the new millenium when the Yau Tet Shin Bazaar was demolished. It now remains an empty plot and has since been turned into a parking lot 🙁 Recently we heard about some plans to rebuild it…

What the Bazaar looked like in the 90s (the Syuen Hotel can be seen in the background, far right).

The proposed design for the New Bazaar.

Has anyone heard the latest news regarding this project? Do tell us more.

July 2012

IpohBornKid Remembers…..

By |2012-07-19T13:11:41+08:00July 19th, 2012|Categories: childhood, history, Ipoh Town, Memories, movies|

We thank IpohBornKid for the above picture. In his email to us, he mentioned that this picture was from Brian Cole of Bath Spa (UK). The picture belonged to the Cole family patriarch who served as a British Army personnel (in Ipoh) in the early 1950s.

The movie being advertised (see the board outside the main entrance) is none other than the Tony Curtis movie ‘The Black Shield’. While a lot has been said about the Rex Cinema (and the other cinema halls in Ipoh), IpohBornKid drew our attention to the Omnibus Service within the city:

The Ipoh Red Omnibus displaying Menglembu-Pasir Puteh or Menglembu-Pasir Pinji route, took movie goers to the front door.  The bus route travelled from Menglembu (via Lahat Road) to Kidd Bus Station passing Ipoh ACS.  From that, it  headed toward the old Ipoh fountain, cut across Belfield Street into Leech Street,  right into Hugh Low Street, then right to Rex Theatre.  It then wound its way through Majestic Theatre (Dai Wah), and finally turned right into Jalan Pasir Puteh to its final destination.  Cost of travel from Menglembu to Rex is 15 cents.

There was a time….

By |2012-07-18T12:08:48+08:00July 18th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , |

…when you could buy a Chevy in Ipoh 😉

As some of you may have guessed, the building on the far left – with the large ‘Chevrolet’ sign – is none other than Borneo Motors. Next to Borneo Motors is Ipoh Motors (formerly Cycle and Carriage Co, Ltd.) and across the road is the Brewster Road Fire Station.

Note that: Yik Foong Complex is NOT in the pictur; which means this was definately taken before the 1960s. Also observe that Brewster Road was still a two-way street (and almost FREE from traffic jams!). Could it have been the 1940s? Or earlier? You tell us 🙂

We thank Dr Ho Tak Ming for this picture.

…the story continues…

By |2012-07-12T18:27:29+08:00July 11th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

We pick up where we left off in our previous post – regarding the Lido Cinema – where we were told that the the top two pictures were in fact the Rex Cinema and NOT Lido. Today, we present to you MORE pictures of the inside of Lido. 🙂 We thank Ruth Rollitt for her contribution.

This was taken by Ruth back in 2009 (see below). It is said to be the inside of the former ticket booth.

And now – the Lido Floor Plans as requested.

June 2012

When was THIS taken?

By |2012-06-25T11:17:05+08:00June 25th, 2012|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, nature|Tags: , |

[click to enlarge]

Dear Ipoh-ites…..can you guys guess the year this photograph was taken? The familiar landmarks may give you some clues 🙂

Here’s another hint: at the bottom left there seems to be some construction going on (at the back of Waller Court Flats) – this site later became S.K. Coronation Park 😉

Happy guessing!

Ipoh Motors

By |2012-06-22T13:22:19+08:00June 22nd, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , |

Here’s a photograph of Ipoh Motors – yes, the same Ipoh Motors which was once a familiar sight along Brewster Road. It is said that the building was previously the premises of Cycle & Carriage Co. Ltd.

Any idea as to WHEN this photograph was taken. We think it’s the 1950s – since Ipoh Motors did move off to another premise, leaving the building empty for some time…

And The Walls Came Tumbling Down

By |2012-06-19T19:25:30+08:00June 19th, 2012|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

Iris Cheng posted on our FB timeline this very sad picture of the Art Deco Majestic Theatre in the throes of demolition. We heard about it on Saturday but honestly I found it too depressing to bother to go and take a photograph. However as Iris did bother I felt it was only right that I should publish it here for those of you who do not follow us on Facebook.

I fear that before too long we shall have nothing left that actually has any traditional architectural styles to please the eye. But perhaps I am that voice in the wilderness – the dinosaur that refuses to lie down. I make no apologies for that and believe that one day the people might understand why I think like that.

The New Town Market, circa 1910!

By |2012-06-18T16:30:39+08:00June 18th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage, Restoration|Tags: , , , |

Believe it or not, the Pasar Besar in Ipoh New Town isn’t that ‘old’! This early 1900s picture (taken from the Kinta Valley book) is quite unique – has there been that much change since Towkay Yau Tet Shin built this place?

I’ve noticed that those large rattan baskets are still in use today….

No.93 Belfield Street

By |2012-06-11T16:11:21+08:00June 11th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , |

Back in the early 1900s, Hoot & Company were “direct importers of motor-cycles and tri-cars” (more can be found at our database). I wonder what has become of this shop lot today? It is also interesting to note that while Hoot & Co operated at No. 93 Belfield Street, their neighbour at No.95 was none other than Hinode Photographer.

The LaBrooy Building

By |2012-06-08T10:12:20+08:00June 8th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Restoration|Tags: |

Besides the Seenivasagam brothers, Ipoh was also ‘home’ for two brothers of the LaBrooy family – C H LaBrooy & H W LaBrooy. These brothers used to live at Dulcieville Lane, Ipoh (the area which is now Parkson Ipoh Parade).

We have here a 1980s picture of the LaBrooy Building. As you can see, it was once used by UMBC. Anyone know what the LaBrooy building is used for now? Has any company bought it/renting it?

A Lovely Old Hotel – Did You Ever Stay There?

By |2012-06-04T08:10:23+08:00June 4th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Restoration|Tags: , , , |

One thing I do not understand about Ipoh  is that here we have a beautiful hotel building used as an electrical store while so many entrepreneurs are knocking up ugly buildings all over the place which they happily call one of the three b’s – backpacker, budget or boutique hotels . Why didn’t one of them consider this fine building for restoration instead?

Do you have any thoughts on this anomaly or any stories about this building?

Parkson Ria?

By |2012-06-01T12:12:04+08:00June 1st, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage, Restoration|Tags: , , |

No, this is NOT a product of Photoshop!

There was a ‘Parkson Ria’ shopping mall in Ipoh, somewhere in the late 1980s/early 1990s. Does anyone remember it? Did it close because of the fire….or before the fire broke out?

[ For those of you still wondering, let me put you out of your misery – yes, this IS the famous Lam Looking Bazaar 😉 ]

May 2012

Do You See What I See?

By |2012-05-16T15:33:55+08:00May 16th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , |

Yes folks, your eyes are NOT playing tricks on you – that IS an F&N bottle on the rooftop of the Lam Looking Bazaar! This form of advertising seemed quite common back then; there was a similar bottle on the other side of the rooftop (front part of the building) – which can be viewed here.

We thank KKFoong for this picture 🙂

April 2012

….what it USED to look like….

By |2012-04-30T09:41:56+08:00April 30th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, nature|Tags: , , |

A while ago, we featured a post about the on-going ‘renovations’ of the Station Gardens. So far, we’ve heard no news about what’s going on behind those boards. Has there been any progress lately? If anyone has noticed anything, do let us know.

In the mean time, here is a 1950s picture of what the gardens used to look like. Picture by Ruth Iversen Rollitt.

‘Pejabat Pos Besar’, Ipoh

By |2012-04-25T09:31:16+08:00April 18th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , , , |

Here’s a rare picture of the former Post Office (behind the Ipoh Town Hall). Notice the stalls beneath the shady tree – and the crowd of patrons too!

We thank Ruth Rollitt for this gem 🙂

Charlie reminds us (#13 below) about Savings Stamps and immediately Hasbi sent us these scans. Thank you both so much.

I never cease to be amazed and fascinated by how well our readers support us. We are so glad to have you all with us. Thank you.

March 2012

The Station Gardens by Mark Lay

By |2012-03-17T17:03:53+08:00March 17th, 2012|Categories: Ipoh Town, Restoration|Tags: , , |

Mark, of Kinta Heritage Group took these two photographs that I failed to get earlier in the week. He first posted them on Facebook, but I am sure he will not mind them being also published here. Remember these were taken this week. They need no explanation.

But the question Mark has for you is, “Does anyone know if the MBI has plans to makeover Station Square along similar lines to the pre-war original landscaping design? Has anyone seen the final design plans? Did the MBI invite public submissions as to the final design??”

Can any of our readers give him an answer?

Update on Old Town

By |2012-03-15T00:09:41+08:00March 15th, 2012|Categories: About Us, history, Ipoh Town, Memories, Restoration|Tags: , , , , , , |

I had a brief ride around Old Town this morning to see what was happening. I couldn’t get any photo or update on the Railway Station Gardens as they are still hidden behind tall blue fencing. However apart from the Cenotaph and the Ipoh Tree there seems to be nothing of the gardens left. Not a great welcome for the tourists in “Visit Perak Year 2012!”.

Then I wandered along the road to see the Birch Clock Tower Garden renovation. What a surprise – as although it is unlikely that anything has been done to preserve the two statuues, Justice and Fortitude from falling down (see http://ipohecho.com.my/v2/2012/03/01/ipohs-virtues-in-danger/)   the tower has been repainted Black and White.

Although that may be approproiate ……… Black and white stands for mourning and cheerless occasions. For example, traditional garb for a funeral is black and white. Black for the loss, and white for their passing onto the heavens, ……… I must say I don’t like it, but then again I did not like the pink either, much preferring the 1909 odiginal version which was all-white. Clearly I am a traditionalist.

By the way, could someone suggest (again) to Datuk Bandar that he gets the clock working.

As you can see the gardens have not progressed too much either. Sigh, maybe they will be ready to celebrate the successful (?) end to our special tourism year.

We welcome your views.

A Facelift for an Old Lady

By |2012-03-11T09:24:22+08:00March 11th, 2012|Categories: history, Ipoh Town, Restoration|Tags: , , |

Just look what happened yesterday! I passed by in the morning and only the top half was painted but by the time I got around to going back with my camera the FB site “All About Ipoh” had beaten me to it and posted this photograph.

I am sure the authors won’t mind me using their photo as thay are clearly just as dedicated to the grand old lady as we are.

By the way the aforementioned site has many more “Likes” than we do. It is time to remind all your FB friends about us. Don’t hang back – “Just Do IT!”

February 2012

Back in the 1980s…..

By |2012-02-29T13:42:45+08:00February 29th, 2012|Categories: festivals/celebrations, history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, People|

…..folks in Ipoh witnessed the 9-Goddess Celebrations. The procession passed through one of Ipoh’s busiest roads, back in 1982/83.

As you can see in this picture, they are passing by the Perak Chinese Foundry Association (building on the left). Anyone have any idea about the other building in the background – the one under construction?

Here’s another picture of the procession.

In this picture you can see the crowd standing at the sidewalk. And for those of you who (still) don’t recognise this street – check out the building on the left: yes, it is none other than the Times of Malaya building!

We’d like to thank Shuen Huey Foo (of Ipoh) for these pictures 🙂

These Doors Remain Closed.

By |2012-02-19T11:39:34+08:00February 18th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Restoration|Tags: , , |

But can anyone tell us when they will open again please. The world misses this famous hostelry which has been closed for restoration since 1 March 2008 – almost 4 years!

But what a night the 29th February was – the last night. Were you there?

By the way, for more photos of this grand old building and its history I have just put up a new album on our Facebook page.

Photographs kindly supplied by Weng Ong Lee.

Can You Guess WHERE It Is?

By |2012-02-17T11:50:41+08:00February 17th, 2012|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town|

One look at this picture (click to enlarge), and I’m sure many of you out there are already grinning – yes, this is a VERY familiar street in Ipoh 🙂 But what we’d like to know more about is the shop in the background (far right) – ‘Any & Co Gift House’. What’s become of this shop?

We thank the Yeoh family for this picture – which is actually part of the Funeral Procession of the late Yeoh Kuon Joo, back in 1947.

January 2012

December 2011

Remember This?

By |2011-12-28T11:25:20+08:00December 28th, 2011|Categories: history, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , |

Yes, this archway was decorated specially for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

Notice the building that says ‘Borneo Motors’ (which is now a restaurant/pub called ‘OverTime’). Brewster Road was rather quiet in those days, wasn’t it? 😉

I wonder…..when was the facade of this archway renovated to it’s present design?

November 2011

‘Apple’ in Ipoh!

By |2011-11-28T09:26:35+08:00November 28th, 2011|Categories: childhood, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: |

Ladies and Gentlemen, we present to you 99 Anderson Road, Ipoh!

This building was originally owned by Foong Seong. Later, the Cheong family bought it. When the Cheongs lived here, the front part of the building was a men’s hairdressing salon while the back portion was a famous tailors shop from where hundreds of made-to-measure school uniforms would emerge. Any of the old girls remember Mdm Loong Foon Yoong who used to measure all the girls herself?.

The Cheong family then moved away, thus the shop became a computer shop.

This picture was taken back in the late 1970s, when Utama Computer Centre sold Apple Computers. Probably the only Apple Store in Ipoh then – unless you know different!  🙂

What is it now?

N.B. The story of the Cheong family growing up in Anderson Rioad is in the book  “Ipoh, My Home Town”.

Where Is It?

By |2011-11-14T13:58:42+08:00November 14th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , |

The shop 3rd from left is ‘Chop Cheong Chin’; next to that is ‘Syarikat Perak Travel Agency’, which is also an agency for Singapore Airlines. That’s about all we could make out from this picture. Now, across the street from this row of shop houses…..(see picture below)

….is another similar row. Notice also that at the end of this street is what seems to be the roof top of the Market.

Could anyone help us with the name of this street. While you’re at it, what is that tall building in the background (seen in both the pictures)?

Birthday Party at Kam Loong Restaurant 1962

By |2011-11-11T08:04:23+08:00November 11th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , , , |

These two photographs were taken on the 60th birthday of Chow Yoon Soo at Kam Loong Restaurant, Ipoh in 1962. Chow Yoon Soo is featured on our database at http://www.ipohworld.org/search8/result.asp?strid=4334. The photographs are part of a set of eight we have recently received from her granddaughter, Sybil, togetherl with the details below:
Both photos were taken on the patio of the restaurant. They had put up the piece of cloth and a screen to hide their equipment.
Kam Loong was famous for its Sharksfin Soup and Suckling Pig and Su-ming mentioned this in her “Ipoh, My Home Town” story (page 268). However, the irony of the place was that the older ladies were seated upstairs (imagine the older legs struggling up step by step) while the drinkers (in their prime of life) sat downstairs. Kam Loong certainly had foresight, taking the risk of having the older ladies getting into difficulties on the stairs, against the likelihood of the drunks falling downstairs after dinner.

Now the question is, do you recognise any of these partygoers from 1962. After all, it is only 50 years ago!

Alternatively, do you have any tales of dining at Kam Loong?

 

 

October 2011

Northern Writers 5th November 2011

By |2011-10-30T10:31:11+08:00October 30th, 2011|Categories: Books, Heritage Books, Ipoh Town, People|Tags: , , , |

The next session of Northern Writers takes place at No5 Gopeng Road at 1030, Saturday 5th November. New books, new readers and a little food. Do come along. It’s very interesting.

And this month we have the special treat of the Poi Lam Choral Speakers, now internationally known.

Contact yusufmartin51@googlemail.com for more information.

Ipoh, 1946…

By |2011-10-12T12:12:51+08:00October 12th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|

Recognise this street?

Well, put those thinking-caps on, people 🙂 I’m sure some of you are grinning madly…while typing away your answers!

This picture is part of the late Geoffrey Clark’s collection. (We featured one of his pictures in a previous blog post) Clark served in Malaya from about 1945-1947 under the 4th Regiment Signals Troop (which arrived in Malaya just after the Japanese surrendered).

September 2011

3 Friends at the Grand Theatre

By |2011-09-30T10:40:45+08:00September 30th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , , , , |

The quality of the picture may not be that good….but I’m pretty sure that the building in the far right is the back portion of the Grand Theatre (which once stood at Brewster Road and Cowan Street).

Of course many of us remember that the Grand Theatre was also part of Jubilee Park; with that in mind….I’m taking a wild guess as to the date of this picture – perhaps 1930/1931? Keeping in mind that the Shaw Brothers began Jubilee Park around 1932, hence I feel that this picture was before the Jubilee Park was built.

Anyone with other theories? Perhaps someone out there could tell us MORE!

What’s Become of This Place?

By |2011-09-28T15:17:27+08:00September 28th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage, Restoration|Tags: , , |

Here’s a picture of the PCADA (Perak Chinese Amateur Dramatic Association) Building, taken on the day of the association’s Golden Jubilee. At the time the picture was taken (some time in 1953) the 3rd floor had been completed.

Foh Sun restaurant used to occupy the groud floor, before it moved. I do wonder what’s become of this building now? Care to tell us MORE?

A Sidestreet in Ipoh…but Where?

By |2011-09-26T15:05:35+08:00September 26th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

This was taken by the late Geoffrey Clark, of the 4th Regiment Signals Troop (one the the early British army groups to arrive in Malaya after the Japanese surrendered). Clark served here from about 1945-1947, and sadly passed away in 2006.

Look at the picture carefully…..WHERE do you think this place is? We’re stumped ourselves, but we know some of you out there know Ipoh so well – so, start typing out those answers! 🙂

Now Here’s a Poser!

By |2011-09-23T19:21:42+08:00September 23rd, 2011|Categories: Exhibitions, Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, People|Tags: , , , |

This photo was provided by the Cheong family for use in “Ipoh, My Home Town” but it was not used as there were much more appropriate images to use for their story.

The banner reads something like “Professor Shu Tong Zen, Exhibition of his Chinese Paintings including an exhibition of his Malaysian Students’ Work”.

Now the questions are: where was this Guild, when was the photograph taken, who are the people and where does the Guild have its premises today?

No prizes, just the glory of being able to show that you know the Ipoh of days gone by.

Same Street, Different Year!

By |2011-09-23T12:50:06+08:00September 23rd, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , |

Some time ago, we featured a picture from the Jennings Collection – showing part of Panglima Street, which was under water in 1919. Here we have another look at the same street.

This was taken in 1926/1927, when yet again Ipoh suffered another great flood. Notice any difference from the 1919 photograph and this one?

August 2011

Wah! We Have Gone to Print

By |2011-08-17T17:45:47+08:00August 17th, 2011|Categories: Books, childhood, Heritage Books, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , |

Yes, at last Ipoh, My Home Town has gone to the printers.

As you may know, I have been working on a new book for the past 20 months or so, editing and compiling original stories of people growing up in Ipoh over the last 90 years. It is entitled “Ipoh, My Home Town: Reminiscences of Growing Up in Ipoh, in Pictures and Words”.  In hard cover ‘coffee table book’ format,  with colour on every page, there are 64 different stories from a broad spectrum of society encompassing all the main Peninsula Malaysian races, plus Caucasians and even an Iban. Together they represent Ipoh past and present.

There are stories from a “Flying Tiger” who grew up in Market Street in the 1920s, Professor Wang Gungwu, a Greentown boy before the war, Lat (who has also written the Foreword) and a number of others from stage, screen and radio plus of course successful businessmen and women, housewives and mothers, but interestingly, no politicians. Our oldest contributor is 92 and the youngest 12. The book therefore is really a history of life in Ipoh through the eyes of young people. With 276 pages and a wealth of original photographs and illustrations it has been a fascinating exercise for an expatriate, ably supported by his Malaysian wife.

The book will be launched by Tun Lim Keng Yaik on the morning of Saturday 17th September at the Royal Ipoh Club so if you can be in Ipoh that day that will be the place to be. Details of the programme and invitations will be sent out as soon as possible, but if you don’t get one and would like to attend, please just let me know.

Regarding the price, as this is a self funded project we have been able to keep the price down to a bare minimum with no profit taking. Hence the book will be on sale in the bookshops at RM100 and direct from us at RM90 excluding postage and packing. There will be plenty for sale at the launch, but if you cannot make it then you can always pre-order via info@ipohworld.org , providing your postal address. We can then advise you of the total cost as soon as the book is in our hands. 

I look forward to seeing you at the launch.

Aerial View of St Michael’s Institution

By |2011-08-05T13:15:38+08:00August 5th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , , |

Here’s a lovely coloured postcard of St Michael’s Institution. Care to guess the date of this picture? Needless to say, those palm trees aren’t there anymore….and the space behind the school building is now where the new Primary Block is.

You can also see St John’s Anglican Church; notice also a green-roofed mansion (top most of the picture). Wonder whose house it was?

July 2011

Rex, Ipoh – Movie Advertisement

By |2011-07-22T13:53:54+08:00July 22nd, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, movies|Tags: , , , |

Yes, it was WAY BACK in 1957…..when we saw Gregory Peck play the role of Captain Ahab!

They don’t make movie posters like they used to…..same can be said for the ‘cinema-experience’ that made cinema halls like Rex, Ruby, Lido, etc. favourite haunts.

The poster we have here is from Edwin Siebel.

June 2011

Renovation…or down right DEMOLITION?

By |2011-06-24T11:21:19+08:00June 24th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

This was brought to our attention by Mark Lay of Kinta Heritage.

Apprently, there’s been some ‘activity’ going on along Jalan Mustapha Al-Bakri (New Town) recently. From the notice that MBI put up, it appears to be “small renovation works”. Really? Well, we’ll let the pictures (below) be the judge of that!

So much for Ipoh garnering a place as ‘UNESCO World Heritage Site’……. 🙁

Station Road, during the Great Floods of Ipoh!

By |2011-06-03T10:38:18+08:00June 3rd, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

From the recent comments we’ve had, some of you love looking at old photographs. Well, today you’re in for another treat!

We estimate the date of this photograph to be 1926, around the time of the great flood. The picture shows part of Station Road – notice the sign on the far right “Charles Grenier & Co Ltd”.

May 2011

Medan Kidd, back in the 1960s!

By |2011-05-30T09:43:17+08:00May 30th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , |

I’m sure many of you are grinning and nodding your heads at this picture!

Yes, this is what Medan Kidd looked liked in the late 1960s. Some of the buses shown in the picture have seen better days, but they still make their way round the town 🙂

There was some talk about giving this place a ‘face-lift’……I wonder what’s become of it?

Remember Capitol Cinema?

By |2018-10-11T15:35:15+08:00May 25th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , |

We have here a rare picture of the Capitol Cinema, which was along Anderson Road, Ipoh. From what we’ve found out, this cinema was a ‘victim’ of a fire almost 20 years ago. Since then, the vacant site was turned into a car park. Sometime last year, the car park closed and the site is now under construction for a row of shop houses.

Can you guess the date of this picture? One clue would be the Kuomintang Flag flying above the large sign. Another clue would be the movie poster.

The ‘Demolition-Plague’ strikes Ipoh again!

By |2011-05-24T11:20:38+08:00May 24th, 2011|Categories: ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|

Mark Lay of Kinta Heritage recently informed us about the demolition of these pre-war shophouses – along the corner of Jalan Sultan Abdul Jalil and Jalan Lau Ek Ching . (see pictures below)

Notice that in the second picture (above), the frames of the door and windows are STILL in good condition. Sadly, they will soon be torn up and stacked on the ground (like the pile of planks in front).

In and Around Ipoh….

By |2011-05-11T08:52:54+08:00May 11th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , |

We have here a picture of Cedric and an antique car (note the number plate!). This picture of Cedric and the Austin 7 was sent to us by Nicholas Jennings.

Now, what about the building in the background, which is under construction? Here’s a tiny clue: this picture was taken around 1961….so, this building was opened to the public the year after.

I know some of you have the answer already! We’ll be looking forward to your comments 🙂

Brewster Road, late 1960s

By |2011-05-09T11:59:55+08:00May 9th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , |

I’m sure some of you remember what this part of Ipoh looked like – way back in 1967/68.

Of course, now….a LOT has changed! The SHELL station has been renovated a number of times. As for the row of shop houses beside the SHELL station; well the half nearer to the junction is now Maybank, while the other half has been demolished (sadly). Across the road is Jubilee Park, which seems to be a shadow of its former self. 🙁

So, what was it like in the late 1960s? We’d love to hear your many stories!

April 2011

Don’t Miss “The Battle of the River Plate”.

By |2011-04-23T09:48:37+08:00April 23rd, 2011|Categories: About Us, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , , |

Ruth Rollitt was so incensed by the multicoloured Cathay that we featured, she sent us this photograph of how the Theatre looked when it first opened in those days of Movies and Mercedes. She included a newspaper article from 1958, the first part of which is inserted below. The whole article will appear on or database archive before too long. Unfortunately we received it to late to catch the movie! Did anyone out there see it?

“Special  Cathay Supplement

A Milestone in Cinema Entertainment

 

Ipoh’s New Cathay Theatre

 

To build a luxury theatre in Ipoh has long been a wish of the Cathay Organisation. This is in keeping with their policy to provide the best that there is available in cinema comfort and entertainment.

 

Costing over $600,000 their new Cathay, Ipoh will be officially declared open by His Highness the Sultan of Perak, Raja Sir Izzudin Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Abdul Jalil, KCMG, OBE, before a distinguished and cosmopolitan gathering at 8 pm tonight, the eve of  Chinese New Year.

 

Out of a piece of rubber estate land there has risen a handsome steel and concrete structure housing one of the best equipped theatres in the state of Perak.

 

Among the guests who will attend tonight’s opening ceremony will be State and Town Councillors, community leader, heads of Government and other personalities.

 

Cathay Organisation personalities include Mr Loke Wan Tho, Head of the Organisation, whose inspired leadership and farsightedness has provided Ipoh town with the handsome and imposing entertainment landmark.

 

Mrs Loke will accompany her husband and Mr John Ede, Director and General manager of the Cathay Organisation will also be present.

 

This new theatre – a worthy acquisition to the large number of theatres already controlled by the Organisation – was designed by Mr B M Iversen, the well-known Ipoh architect.”

 

More about the Cathay can be found here.

‘Japanese Curios’ – in Ipoh!

By |2011-04-15T11:04:19+08:00April 15th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , |

Back in 1919, there was a terrible flood in Ipoh town (as you see in the picture here, sent to us by Nicholas Jennings). This part of Ipoh is just off Panglima Lane (or Concubine Lane, as it were). What we’re curious to know more about is the name of this particular shop in the background – Japanese Curios. I believe the building is still there today (though I could be wrong); I do wonder what’s become of it?

March 2011

February 2011

The Barber of Belfield Street

By |2017-08-25T15:41:50+08:00February 18th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , |

Today’s feature is none other then the Star Barbershop, at Belfield Street.

 

Star Air-Conditioned Hair Dressing Salon,

97 Belfield Street (now Jalan Sultan Yussuf) IPOH 30000

 

The Star Hair Dressing Salon came into being in 1927, it was started by Megarai Karuppiah with just 2 barbers – Katchiappan and Manickam – and the premises were shared with a Japanese tailor before it was fully owned by the barbers.

It is a very old and well- preserved hair salon, with two 4th generation barbers still working. One of them started working at the salon in the 1953. The exterior of the shop is quite old and the building is old though there were few changes made to the structure of the shop over time. The shop has a unique style of tilted mirrors which run across the right side of the wall when entrance is made

through the front door, according to Thirunavu Karasu a/l Krishnan, the 4th generation barber, the mirrors were tilted for a better view for the customers. Right opposite that wall, there are 2 gorgeous ceramic basins without any damage of cracks over all these years.

There are electric hair trimmer and hair dryers ( Italian made) in the shop though rusty and old but still in working condition. There are few remaining chairs in the shop which look absolutely fine and strong, these chairs were imported from Japan, with the grey embossed letters “TOKYO – TAKEHANA CO – KURAMAE” on the metal frame of the foot rest, where Kuramae meaning “as strong as a sumo wrestler”.

Leaning against the back wall of the shop is a wooden cabinet with slots cut on the drawer fronts. These slots were used by each of the barbers to put in the daily takings from the customers.

Initially there was no electricity supply in the shop, so the cooling used to be provided with a Punkah Wallah to fan the customers before the ceiling fans were installed. Then in 1954, a ducted air-conditioning system was installed which was then replaced by 3 window air-conditioning units after 10 years.

The shop once employed 14 barbers and they used to live above the shop where they were provided with food as well. Their records were adequately kept and at the end of the month, each barber would be entitled to a salary depending on number of haircuts achieved, minus food and laundry allowance.

There is a framed group photograph (above) of all the barbers and the valued customers, hung from the top edge of the mirror and dated 1965. In the centre is Dr. Moreira who would normally ask for a barber to visit him in his office.

The salon has been given a notice from the property owner which means that there has to be end to its service after 84 memorable golden years.

This is a summary of the full story and a great selection of photos submitted by Peter Shaoming Wang. The full story and photographs may be found here.

 

On the left, we have Mr Thiru’s grandchildren. A traditional family they are seen saying their prayers. On the right, is Thiru (today) with his wife and granddaughter, Saathana.

Driving Through the Town

By |2011-02-16T16:34:51+08:00February 16th, 2011|Categories: About Us, Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , |

Some of our fans out there love old photos. Hence we decided to feature this one on our blog today.

Here’s one of J A S Jennings (Editor of Times of Malaya) and his wife Freda – being chauffeur driven round the town. In the background is the first Times of Malaya Building.

‘Day’ and ‘Night’, at Cockman Street

By |2011-02-09T08:24:57+08:00February 8th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , |

 

Here’s a Day and Night shot of Cathay Theatre (when it was STILL a cinema) – notice that the mall behind Cathay was Ocean (now, it’s The Store). We thank Valerie for these pictures who has now provided the following additional information:

“The dayshot was taken in the morning of October 1998 when the street was not busy.

 

 The building was just freshly repainted with new color shemes that combine the

 best of traditional art deco and modern day glitziness.  The “C” on the right hand

 side of the marquee is the Cathay logo that was not yet put back up after the paint job

 but was up for the night shot.

 

The nightshot was taken that same day right after Ocean turned off their lights

to close up for the night.  The timing of the nightshot was perfect as it made the glittering lights of Cathay stand out elegantly without the distractionof Ocean in the background.”

 

Thank you Valerie.

January 2011

What’s Happened to the Milano Tailor?

By |2011-01-10T09:33:49+08:00January 10th, 2011|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , |

I’m sure the Ipoh-ites out there are grinning at this picture (courtesy of Jeffrey Liew) – especially those who frequently travelled along Club Road (Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang)!

Remember the Milano Tailor? I wonder where he is now…..since this building is no longer around (so much for ‘development’). Yes 🙁 sadly this is now an empty lot which houses abandoned/wrecked cars.

Anyone care to fill us in with MORE information?

Heritage Trail Map (1st Map)

By |2020-01-13T09:25:05+08:00January 7th, 2011|Categories: ipoh, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage, Uncategorized|Tags: , , |

Here’s a copy of the 1st Heritage Trail Map. This trail covers Old Town and is held every Saturday morning at 8am, starting at the Ipoh Railway Station.

A full size printable copy of this map is now available on our database athttp://db.ipohworld.org/view/id/3875 in PDF format.

                                               

December 2010

The Brewster Road Fire Brigade

By |2010-12-20T09:45:13+08:00December 20th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage, People|Tags: , , , |

Remember the old fire brigade at Brewster Road? Here we have two pictures of the fire brigade’s compound – showing the girls from the Main Convent.

These girls were part of the Firefighter Cadets Club, which was established in the school in the 1980s.

The fire brigade has moved to another premise (opposite the Perak Stadium), but the old building still remains. Anyone know what’s become of the old building?

Thank you to Puan Zora, a former student and teacher from the Main Convent, who lent us these pictures!

News from the Bridge

By |2010-12-03T08:37:42+08:00December 3rd, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

A watch tower? Or maybe (yet) another clock tower? I’m sure you’ve noticed this tower, which is still under construction. The question is: Why? We’re clueless ourselves – why build, not 1 but 4, towers along the Hugh Low Bridge? If you have more information on this project, do let us know!

Std. 5C, 1968 – from the Anglo-Chinese School, Ipoh

By |2010-12-01T08:49:07+08:00December 1st, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , |

The Anglo-Chinese School (ACS) was the first English school (and first Christian mission school too!) in the Kinta Valley. This school was established by the Methodist Episcopal Mission in 1895. It was said that just five days after his arrival, Rev W E Horley opened ACS in a small attap-roof Malay house rented from Datoh Panglima Kinta Muhammad Yusuff.

Here we have Std. 5C, from 1968. Our donor Mr Sundralingam is somewhere in the picture. What about you? I’m sure we have some former ACS boys out there (especially from this class!). What about the teachers shown here – are they still around?

November 2010

The Times of Malaya – The 1st and 2nd Building

By |2010-11-29T09:35:27+08:00November 29th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage, Uncategorized|Tags: , , , , |

This is the first Times of Malaya building, which was along Post Office Road. The first issue of Ipoh’s first newspaper was published on 9th March 1904. 2 years later, the newspaper was taken over by J A S Jennings – who remained the paper’s most influential editor for a good 30 years!

In the early 1930s, the Times of Malaya moved to a new building, along Brewster Road (see picture below).

After the war (after 1945), this building was used by the Public Works and the Department of Drainage and Irrigation. What’s become of it now? Can anyone fill us in on the latest?

We thank Nicholas Jennings – the grandson of J A S Jennings – who sent us a copy of these rare pictures.

What’s Happened to Lido?

By |2010-11-27T15:40:33+08:00November 27th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Uncategorized|Tags: , , , , |

This picture was sent to us by Ruth Rollit, the daughter of the Danish architect B M Iversen.

Familiar? No? This is what the interior of the Lido Cinema looks like today – as you can see, it’s not longer a cinema. Lido has now been converted into Florex Restaurant.

In this picture, the raised level shown was where the bar used to be. Has much of the interior changed? I noticed that the original floor tiles are still there. What about the rest of the place?

Cathay Opens in Ipoh!

By |2010-11-26T08:49:28+08:00November 26th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , , , |

At that time, this $ 600,000 cinema was considered luxurious. It was declared open by His Highness Raja Sir Izzudin Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Abdul Jalil (the Sultan of Perak), on the eve of Chinese New Year. Designed by B M Iversen, this fully air-conditioned cinema (with its ‘colossal 75-foot tower of jade tiles’), stood proud along Cockman Street – the same area which was once ‘home’ to rubber trees!

This picture was taken on the opening night; after the grand ceremony, the patrons were treated to Darryl F Zanuck’s ‘CinemaScope 55’ production of – you guessed it – The King and I. How many of you out there were at the opening ceremony? How many of you ‘fell in love’ with the movie?

We’d like to thank Ruth Rollit (the daugther of B M Iversen) for sending us this precious photograph.

It’s PARTY-TIME!

By |2010-11-24T09:00:42+08:00November 24th, 2010|Categories: ipoh, Ipoh Town, People|Tags: , , , , |

Calling ALL Convent-Alumni!!!

As stated in the flyer, there will be a Christmas Party on 11th December 2010, organised by the Convent Old Girls Association (COGA). This party will be at the Convent Primary Hall, from 4 pm till 7 pm. Besides good food and some fun games, this is a chance to revisit your dear alma mater; maybe even a time to catch up on the latest! We were also told that Convent’s very own band – Tradimode – will be performing too.

Those interested may contact Florina Ng, the Convent Music Teacher. Start marking your diaries, girls!!

Cycling Along Cockman Street

By |2010-11-12T08:43:16+08:00November 12th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

Those were the days: when the traffic in Ipoh was rather scarce, and riding around the town on a bicycle was SAFE! Here we have some youngsters riding past the Lido Cinema. This Iversen building is no longer a cinema now; if I’m not mistaken it’s been turned into Florex Restaurant.

Playing in the cinema at that time (1958) was ‘Rock, Pretty Baby’. This movie starred Sal Mineo, John Saxon Shelley Fabares, Luana Patten and Edward Platt. It was a simple story about a teenager who, despite his father’s objections, formed a rock and roll band with his friends. He later tried his best to obtain bookings.

Did anyone out there watch this movie? Did the movie start a trend among the younger generation – as in starting their own band? Or, perhaps it started a fashion trend?

The 2nd Ipoh Heritage Trail Map

By |2010-11-12T08:17:34+08:00November 10th, 2010|Categories: ipoh, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage|Tags: , |

This is the 2nd FREE map in this series – the first one was featured in this blog late last year. This map/brochure is published by Kinta Heritage Group Sdn Bhd, in collaboration with Perak Tourism and the Perak State Government. Inside shows another heritage trail which covers: Belfield Street, Cross Street, Leech Street, Treacher Street, Jalan Datoh, and along the river into Jalan Mesjid (Hume Street).

Also featured in this map/brochure is a short history of the Eu Chateau, as well as Dato Panglima Kinta. Copies of this can be obtained from leading hotels, the Railway Station, Tourist Information Centres, and also the Perak Academy Office.

At the Ipoh Airport…

By |2010-11-03T08:58:58+08:00November 3rd, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , , |

Here’s a scene from the old Ipoh Airport. As you can see in the background, there’s an airplane with the words ‘Malayan Airways’ on it. Hence we think this picture was probably taken in the early 1950s – by 1963, the airline was renamed Malaysian Airways Ltd (MAL).

I remember in the late 1980s or early 1990s, there were joyrides for the public at the Ipoh Airport – needless to say, my brother and I never stopped talking about it after our first ‘adventure’ in the air!! Don’t know if they have this service anymore. I wonder what’s become of the Ipoh Airport these days; heard that they’ve started a flying school there (but I may be wrong…).

What were YOUR memories like? Perhaps someone out there could tell us more about the Ipoh Airport…..

October 2010

The Famous Arch, over the Hugh Low Bridge

By |2017-07-25T09:41:09+08:00October 27th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , , |

This arch was set up over the Hugh Low Bridge, in Ipoh, somewhere in 1947. This was before the grand parade – which was held in support of the Kuomintang Party (led by General Chiang Kai Shek).

Notice the three flags at the top of the arch: the Perak Flag, the Kuomintang Flag and the Union Jack. To what we know, this parade was jointly sponsored by the Chinese Assembly Hall members and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

How many of you out there remember this arch? Anyone witnessed the parade, or maybe took part in this parade?

Do You Recognise This One?

By |2010-10-18T12:04:51+08:00October 18th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

Not a very difficult question for you on this bright Monday morning, but of all the grand old buildings in Ipoh that have been torn down, I think this is the one I miss the most.

Fortunately we have this photograph as a memento of what, in my humble opinion, should never have been demolished. But it was – suddenly and without warning – for that is how we do things under Malaysia Boleh. I think it was lost to us in 2002 but I may be wrong. Does anyone know when it was built or have any history about it? More photographs would also be welcome.

Felicia is sick today so some interesting replies would certainly brighten up her day.

Out with the old, in with the new?

By |2010-10-06T14:27:23+08:00October 6th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town|Tags: , |

Clearly the ‘old’ and ‘new’ don’t match here…..one looks like it may fall apart anytime soon, while the other has been left uncompleted!

These two ‘neighbours’ live at Brewster Road, Ipoh. We do wonder what the modern building is. Also, we noticed that the building has been ‘windowless’ for some time now!

Any ideas? What was there BEFORE the modern structure came up?

September 2010

1Malaysia Lantern Festival 2010

By |2010-09-20T09:59:26+08:00September 20th, 2010|Categories: ipoh, Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , , |

This Friday (24 September 2010), there will be a Heritage Unity Walk – starting out at the Ipoh Railway Station. It’s a special event for 700 underprivilaged Perakian children; these children will be treated to games and a food carnival prior to the walk. And since it’s the Mid Autumn Festival, we’ll be carrying lanterns while we walk the heritage trail. The schedule for this event is as follows:

  6.30pm –  Arrival of participants
                  Registration

  7.00pm –  Arrival of Children & Guests
                  Games for Children & Food Carnival

  7.50pm –  Arrival of YBhg Datuk Bandar Ipoh & EXCO Tourism

  8.00pm –  Arrival of Menteri Besar Perak

  8.05pm –  Welcoming speech by MC
                  Welcoming Dance
                  Speech by Organising Chairman
                  Speech by Menteri Besar
                  Official launch of the celebrations by Guest of Honour

  8.30pm –  Start of Heritage Trail of Unity Walk (with Lanterns)

  9.45pm –  End of walk
                  Supper for VIPs

10.30pm –  End

All are welcome to join this event – bring your own Lantern!

The ‘Residents’ of Leech Street, Ipoh

By |2010-09-10T12:24:43+08:00September 10th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , |

These ‘friends’ live at Leech Street – opposite the low cost flats, next door to the old Kinta Aerated Water building.

Who owns them now, we wonder….and what’s become of them? We see the one on the extreme right has been painted pink; which now sells groceries (at wholesale price). What about the others?

Anyone with more information, do let us know.

August 2010

Meet the ‘Artists’…

By |2010-08-30T11:12:16+08:00August 30th, 2010|Categories: ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage, People|Tags: , , , , , |

Meet Mr and Mrs Tan – the diligent and creative couple, who produce ‘lion heads’ (and ‘bodies’ too).

We featured Mr and Mrs Tan’s store in a previous blog; we can’t help but feature them again – together with some of their masterpieces (pictures below).

Such an art seems to be fading as time goes by. It’s a pity, since these vibrantly coloured ‘lions’ and ‘dragons’ never fail to entertain us – especially during the Lunar New Year!

We thank Charlie for these pictures.

The ‘other side’ of Jalan Laxamana

By |2010-08-25T09:00:10+08:00August 25th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , , |

Those who frequent the Pasar Besar (Main Market) of Ipoh might be familiar with these (picture below)

Yes, these shop houses have stood the test of time; and they’re STILL going strong! The 3rd shop from the left is particularly interesting – the one painted yellow, with the words ‘Market Terrace’ at the top.

As can be seen (picture above, left), it’s a double shop; the shop with the grey shade makes ‘lion heads’ (picture on the right). It’s rather fascinating to know that this trade is still being carried on, even till today!

Has anyone been there? Do share your thoughts; perhaps some of you have met the owners….

The Foong Seong Villa

By |2010-08-16T11:32:09+08:00August 16th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , , , |

This place was said to have a large hall on the top floor. During the war, the hall was a Japanese mah jong den. Later (after the war), it was turned into classrooms for the Sam Choy Primary School – this was during the day time; at night, it was the venue for the Chinese Opera!

We know some of you out there need no introduction to this famous landmark! We’d like to hear from anyone who has MORE information. As in the picture, the ground floor is being fully utilised – but what about the hall?

…a Mystery no more!

By |2010-08-11T09:47:38+08:00August 11th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , , , |

Most of us are familiar with the Birch Clock Tower (along Post Office Road). In one of our previous posts, we were wondering what building seemed hidden in the background, far left of the picture (see below).

Well, the mystery has been solved – the building is none other than the old Court House!

Yes, this was what the court house looked like in the late 1800s. This court house was built in 1888 and remained a court house till 1909.  The court moved to another location, but later settled at its present place – Club Road. This structure, however, remained there till the 1960s; it later paved way to the construction of the Perak State Mosque.

My grandma’s classic collections……祖母的古懂收藏

By |2010-08-07T12:04:49+08:00August 7th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories, People|

My grandma Yim Mun had a penchant for classical things. This was due to a privileged upbringing in her childhood home. As the daughter of a wealthy and respectable man, she had an eye for high quality and lasting items.  She always went for good brands.

  

This was a vintage Singer treadle sewing machine which grandma bought in 1928. She paid RM130 for it, quite a princely sum back in those days.

Based on its serial number Y 3254573, I managed to trace its origin. It was manufactured in Clydebank, Scotland in the year 1925. That makes it almost 85 years old.

Grandma used it to do some light patchwork. Many years later, she gave it to her daughter who was a tailor. After many years of heavy usage, it could no longer function so smoothly.

My aunt simply abandoned it and bought a new electronic machine. It was left to gather dust and stand idle at a corner for many decades. However, being a possessive woman, she does not allow anyone else to touch her mom’s property.

It was not until 1973 after my grandma’s death that my dad decided to overhaul it and bring it back to life. He felt it was a waste to leave it idling around.

First, he traced the details of the machine into a piece of blank paper and marked them accordingly. Next, he took out part by part and sorted them into different categories. Since they were very rusty due to years of neglect, Dad soaked each part in kerosene for some time to remove the rust. Then he painstakingly polished them until they were shiny again. Every nuts and screws were given a touch up.

It was truly a labor of love. He wanted to give it to Mom who really needed the machine to sew some clothes for us.

Every night, after he had finished sharpening scissors, he would labor on this machine. It took him almost two months before he could restore it back into its original glory. Once it was finished, it was as good as new! Today, it could still function so well.

Mom was so thrilled to finally have a sewing machine and we could have some clothes to wear instead of old hand me downs. Especially for me, because as the youngest child, I always got fifth hand clothes!

  

Beside this sewing machine, grandma also bought a vintage Bush Radio which was manufactured in London around 1940s. This radio was bought in 1945 after my dad opened Nam Foong Coffee Shop at 188 Hugh Low Street. It was actually sold to her by a regular customer.

This customer was a hardcore gambler and he lost heavily at the Race Course. Desperate for some quick money, he took his family’s radio and made an offer to my grandma who could not resist this gem. She wanted to buy it so that the patrons of the coffee shop could have some entertainment. It was a good decision.

While enjoying the smooth and aromatic tau foo fah, the customers were serenaded by music and songs from all over the world. During its prime, we can actually tune in to stations from the USA, Europe, Africa and most parts of Asia. It was on from morning till night. It served us until mid 70s, a total of almost 30 years. Due to heavy usage, it eventually broke down.

I found out that it can still be repair but it has to be done in London where the manufacturer has a department to repair and restore its vintage radios. And they also have a website for buying and selling such vintage gems.

There were many other valuable items which my grandma bought throughout the years. Among them was a big grandfather clock, a vintage typewriter, a gramophone, a charcoal iron and some porcelain wares. My family had sold them off to antique collectors to raise fund to treat my youngest uncle in China. He eventually died from a tumor in his neck at a very young age. Today, only these two items were left to remember my grandma.

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow?

By |2010-08-04T08:31:07+08:00August 4th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , , , |

Looks familiar? To those who (like me) often visit the Hilltop Cafe (the orange building at the far end, right side of the shady tree), you would have noticed these rows of shop houses – particularly the ones on the right of the picture. (Hilltop Cafe is along Hugh Low Street). These shop houses, on Jalan Chung On Siew, were once used in a movie. (see picture below)

This is what the shops looked like, when they were touched up/painted/decorated. This was done to portray a ‘scene in old Shanghai’ – specially for the Ang Lee movie ‘Lust, Caution’. (more about this can be found here)

But alas, these shop houses won’t be able to live up to their ‘fame’ – for they are being torn down!

Has anyone heard anything about this? Maybe someone out there knows what’s going on; and maybe what’s going to be built there once these shop houses go……..

July 2010

‘Drawn’ to Ipoh…..

By |2010-07-30T09:10:14+08:00July 30th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , , , |

Remember this shop? Here’s a clue: it’s at Market Street…..

If I’m not mistaken, I think the shop is still there – going strong after all these years! They specialized in Kain Pulikat, (the locals might know it as sarong) which was said to be made in India. They also sold Kain Batek (Batik).

Here’s another landmark – our local Indian barber, which still does business at Belfield Street. My late grandfather used to visit him every month or so; I don’t think grandpa went to any other hairdresser in his lifetime!

These two sketches are part of Amiruddin Mohd Daud’s collection – titled ‘Ipoh Old Town’. Amiruddin is a self-taught artist from Ipoh, and also a former student of ACS. Together with his wife, they are quite involved with charity and fund raising activities; 10% of the sale of his drawings will go to MAKNA (Malaysian Cancer Council).

For more information on Amiruddin and his works, you can contact him via email: rat.adventure@yahoo.com

Oh No! Not Just the Roof ……….

By |2010-07-28T00:01:14+08:00July 28th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , , , |

We featured this building in http://www.ipohworld.org/?p=1712 where we showed the original mansion that belonged to Dato Seri Lau Pak Kuan OBE JP and what the owners of the Coliseum Club had done to deface this beautiful building.

In the comments on that blog mashi74 reported that the stylistic roof had been removed and, as you can see from this photo it has been replaced with something far less easy on the eye. But worse! Look what they have done to the stonework! Garish is not a strong enough word for this abomination.

And finally, it appears that have torn the whole inside out and are to renovate with modern (Ugh!) materials.

Have these people no eye for beauty, history and heritage. Maybe they just have no soul!

Hugh Low Street (Jalan Sultan Iskandar) in the 80s

By |2010-07-26T10:00:07+08:00July 26th, 2010|Categories: ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , |

Hugh Low Street was once a 2-way street, and a very busy one too…even today! This picture was taken from a postcard, dated 1985. At the far end, just before the bridge, there used to be an arch – it’s not there now, wonder when it was taken down?

Also notice that there were many shops (on either side of the street), selling everything; from jewelry, to groceries, to Chinese herbs – there’s even a Bata shoe store! Anyone remember other famous stores? Have any new ones come up lately?

We look forward to hearing from you, so DO tell us more about this part of Hugh Low Street!

The weaver girl from Shun Tuck.她来自顺德.

By |2010-07-27T13:57:52+08:00July 24th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , , , , , , |

Chan Tai 陈黛, the charming girl in this photo, used to live in a small village in the district of Shun Tuck 顺德 in the province of Guangdong, China in the 1920s. This district was renowned for producing silk. Her family owned a small silk worm farm. She helped them to cultivate silk worms and weave the silk thread into cloth.

One day, a professional matchmaker called “mui yan poh 红线人” approached the family with a marriage proposal. A guy in Ipoh, Perak, Malaya, needed a wife and was looking for a girl from a decent family.

In those days, many families in small villages in China dreamed of having their daughters marrying off to faraway lands and lead a better life. At that time, Perak was famous for tin and it was very fashionable to come to this land of plenty.

The prospective groom was a guy called Chow Yee Phooi 周毅錇, from the district of Phun Yee番禺. He has already migrated to Malaya together with his brothers many years before. He was the youngest among the brothers and the only one still single and eligible.

They opened a shop selling fruits in Ipoh. This shop, called Chow Hang Kee 周亨记 , distributed fruits to other fruit sellers in the market nearby. The shop was located between Yik Foong Complex and Lam Looking Bazaar, facing the back portion of the present Pasar Besar Ipoh.

Life was good to him. Flamboyant and carefree, he always frequented gambling dens in his spare time. He was particularly fond of mahjong and “pai kao”, a game of black tiles.

In the past, a girl has no say in her marriage. Everything was decided by her parents.  The Chinese called it “Mang Fun Nga Kar 盲婚哑嫁” meaning a “blind and mute marriage”. She has neither meet the groom nor can she voice out her opinion about the match. As a daughter, she just has to follow everything planned for her.

Her parents gave their approval at once and a simple wedding ceremony was conducted in her village, minus the groom. In his place, a cockerel was used in the ceremony although I don’t know why they chose this animal to represent the groom!

After the wedding ceremony, she left her village and boarded a steamer, stopping at Singapore first and then later, Malaya. Next, it was to Ipoh.

Upon her arrival, this photo was taken. The purpose of taking this photo was to send it back to her family in China to show them that she has arrived safely to her new home. There were only two such photos. One she sent back to her family and the other appeared in this blog, which she kept as a keepsake. Later, it was handed down to my mom who was her eldest child. Mom gave this photo to me. Today, this is the most prized item in my collection because it is the oldest and the only photo of my maternal grandmother.

From this photo taken circa 1920s, you can see that she was a very stylish lady, an epitome of an Oriental beauty of her time. She sewn the white samfoo and black knee length skirt herself, using the silk cloth which she had weaved. It was part of her wedding wardrobe, looking prim and proper to face her new husband and his family. Her hair was combed neatly into a bun. She was also wearing a pair of white leather high heeled shoes and carrying a white fur handbag. Such a graceful blend of East and West.

The family stayed in Kampung Kuchai, Ipoh. Needle work was her main forte. She sew baby’s clothes and accessories like gloves, booties, caps and carriers for some extra pocket money although her husband’s income was sufficient to support her. She was a very quiet and gentle person, yet fiercely independent, earning her own keeps.

But alas, her life was tragic! In 1930, she gave birth to my mom. Soon, another daughter followed and the next was also another girl! Three girls in a row and soon her mother –in law began to show her displeasure. No son was produced and that was a bane for the family. Under mental pressure, she conceived again although her health has deteriorated. But by now neither her husband nor her mother-in law show any concern. In their mind, it will be yet another girl. Girls were so unwelcomed in a Chinese family at that time. They preferred boys to carry on their surname and attend to the family altar. This was a typical Chinese mindset at that time. Luckily, it was not like this anymore.

Her parents came from China to Ipoh to visit their daughter. After a brief stay, they went back to China, bringing my mom together with them to lessen their daughter’s burden of looking after the children in her fragile condition. It was 1938 and my mom was only 8years old then. She spent the next four years in Shun Tuck together with her grandparents, helping them to feed the silk worms with mulberry leaves.

Not long after her parents left Ipoh to go back to China, one day, my maternal grandmother experienced a terrible stomach pain at home. She was already in her seventh month of pregnancy. She sent her two young daughters out to search for their father and asked him to come home at once. That day, he was not at the shop. Instead, he was at the mahjong parlor near home. He was an addicted mahjong player and was too engrossed in his game to bother about his pregnant wife at home.

“Go home and don’t bother me! Ask her to apply some medicated oil and get a rest!” he barked at his young daughters as they pestered him to go home quickly to attend to their mother.  The mother –in law was nowhere to be found. The two young girls were at a lost as to what to do seeing their pregnant mother in pain. Finally they called their neighbor for help.

It was late at night when my maternal grandfather finally came home. His face was as dark as “Kuan Kung 关公”from losing money at the mahjong parlor. A midwife had just left the house. On the bed were a stillborn baby boy and his dead wife, paled and cold from losing too much blood. His two young daughters were sobbing at a corner, traumatized at seeing their dead mother and baby brother. My maternal grandmother was about 28 then. What a young age to die and in such a tragic way. 

To a Chinaman at that time, losing a wife is akin to losing a shirt. I really don’t know how he must have felt at that time but according to my aunts, he looked very cool and calm. After burying his dead wife and stillborn baby, he approached a matchmaker to look for another wife and in a few months time, a new one was found and life was back to normal again, at least for him.  My poor mom and her little sisters found themselves with a stepmom but luckily she was not exactly the type from hell. But nevertheless, life was not the same anymore without your own mother.

According to my mom, one night, while she was sleeping in a dimly lit room in her grandparents home in Shun Tuck, she was awoke by an apparition of a lady beside her bed. She opened her eyes and saw that it was her mom. The apparition was sobbing softly and was trying to pull a blanket to cover her young daughter. It was gone in a blink of an eye. At that time, my mom has not learnt about her mom’s death yet because she was far away in China. A month later, a letter from her father in Ipoh reached her, informing her of her mom’s death.

Many years later, my maternal grandfather was blinded by firecrackers being carelessly thrown out from the window of a shop near Foh San Restaurant at Osborne Street. He was just coming out from a mahjong parlor at that time. That incident stopped him from playing mahjong ever again.

In 1980, on his death bed, while breathing his very last, in a very weak voice, he asked his daughters for their forgiveness for neglecting his first wife and depriving them of their mother’s love. His last words were, “I deeply regretted my folly. I still loved her very much. She was a good wife. She is beside me now, waiting for me. Please forgive me and goodbye. I am going to be with her again.”

My mom and her sisters have finally forgiven their father and came to terms with their profound loss.

‘King of Fruits’ at Osborne Street

By |2010-07-19T15:26:53+08:00July 19th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

It’s that season again; where all Malaysians young and old, some foreigners too, join in the fun.

To the die-hard fans out there, yes…we’re talking about DURIANS! Here we have a picture of durians being sold along Osborne Street, Ipoh (in the early 1970s). Were there many stalls selling durians in those days? We’d like to hear from you – of your fond memories with the King of Fruits!

One journey has ended. Another is about to begin…… 今世毕. 来世始…..(Final Part)

By |2010-07-27T14:00:11+08:00July 17th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories, People, Uncategorized|

All the last rites performed for the dead in the funeral parlors along Hume Street were a fusion of Taoism, Confucianism and Buddhism beliefs.

The core belief is that death is universal. When a person dies, the soul will leave its body. But it will not realize immediately that death has occurred upon itself. This detached soul will hover above the body, become very distress to find itself in a new dimension. It will take a week for the deceased to finally realize its departure. And it took about 49 days for the next rebirth to occur.

Therefore, it is paramount to offer guidance in the form of prayers to comfort this disorientated soul and steer it to the path of another rebirth. Hence, a wake will be conducted to chant prayers to pacify the soul and lead it to a safe realm.

After the family had purchased all the necessities, an undertaker washed the corpse with scented water and dusted it with talcum powder. It was then dressed in the silk longevity suit and for a female, “make up” will be applied to its face. All these tasks were done on a hay mat. Once complete, the deceased will be placed into the coffin, with feet facing out towards the door. The coffin will be put on a stand about a feet from the ground.

A small piece of ancient coin is placed between the lips. The face will be covered with a small piece of yellow silk cloth. Another bigger piece of blue silk cloth printed with mantras or Buddhist scriptures will be used to cover the corpse. A paper umbrella is opened up and placed on the coffin. To prevent the body from decaying, dried ice will be pumped into the coffin.  

An altar will be set up at the foot of the deceased. Foods were placed in front of the deceased’s large portrait. A large urn to hold joss sticks will be placed in the middle. A pair of big white candles will be placed on either side. The pair of male and female servants made from papers were placed on either side of the coffin. All around the coffin were blue and black cloth banners with words of condolences. Floral wreaths were also displayed around the altar.

Two large white paper lanterns with the deceased’s surname and age written onto it were placed outside at the doorstep of the funeral parlor. For a married woman, both the surname of her husband and herself will be written. The husband’s surname will be written first follow by her own. It is interesting to note that three additional years were added to the actual age of the deceased. One year each for Heaven, Hell and Earth.

Nearby, a separate table will be set up against the wall for the “nam moh lou” to conduct prayers. On the wall, you can see a large scroll with the paintings of three very important figures in Buddhism. They were the Sakyamuni Buddha in the middle representing enlightenment. On one side is the Avalokestivara Boddhisattva (Guanshiyin Pusa) who had vowed to release all sentient beings from sufferings. And on the other side is the Ksitigarbha Boddhisattva (Dizang Pusa) who is in charge of karmic retributions. The prayers to evoke the blessings from the above three for the deceased were chanted accompanied by the clanking of cymbals, blowing of trumpets and beating of gongs.

It is proper for all the children to be at the bedside when a person dies. Sometimes many could not make it in time. For those who could not, they were required to kneel down and crawl towards the coffin. It is a form of asking for forgiveness for not making it. Later, the children and grandchildren would sit on straw mats beside the coffin, burning paper money in a large urn throughout the night.

Those attending the wake are required to light incense and bow to the deceased as a form of respect. They will also place some money called “pak kam” or “white gold” into a donation box to help defray the cost of the wake and funeral.  The bereaved family will give two pieces of sweets tied to a red string or a red packet with the words “toh cheh, yau sum” meaning “thank you for your sympathy” to the donor.

Other relatives and friends would help fold some gold and silver paper ingots for the deceased. Some would indulge in a game of cards or mahjong to stay awake during the wake. Normally, a wake lasted for 2 nights from 7pm to 11pm.

All the paper offerings were burned on the second night. This was done after the “nam moh lou”, using an ink brush with some red ink at the tip, activate the paper offerings and chant some prayers. These offerings became valid and they will serve their new master or mistress diligently. Doesn’t this sound like a fairy godmother using a magic wand to turn all things into real?

When the ceremony was finished for that night, everyone will leave. All the lights at the parlors went off and doors slammed shut. The two large white paper lanterns with candles inside still remained at the door, leaving the lights of the candles flickering in the dark. In the dead of the night, stray dogs loitered around and began howling. The ambience is so spooky and eerie, enough to make your hair stand on ends. In moments like this, I will quickly shut my bedroom window and jump into bed, pulling the blanket over my head!!

At the funeral, everyone present got a last glimpse of the deceased and according to their ranks, made a final bow. The deceased favorite possessions and more hell bank notes will be piled into the coffin. Amidst the crying and wailing of the family, all looked away as the coffin were sealed with yellow papers and then carried out onto the hearse by pallbearers. The spouse of the deceased will stay behind and not allowed to follow the procession. The deceased and the spouse are in the same rank. In olden days, a spouse is called “half way spouse”.

It is customary for all the son-in laws, who were the closest “outsiders”, to hoist up together, a long piece of red cloth held by a pole. This act is called “hei chew”. This auspicious act will bring them good luck. Next, they were also given the honor to lead the procession with two friends carrying the two white giant lanterns. The hearse will follow from behind.

The eldest son of the deceased will sit next to the coffin in the hearse. He will hold a large lighted joss stick and a paper tablet bearing the deceased’s name.

With their hands holding to a long piece of white cloth and their heads pressing firmly against the hearse, the rest of the grieving family followed closely from behind, weeping and wailing. 

Friends and relatives will follow from behind, many holding umbrellas under the basking sun.

A few meters in front, the bereaved family will stop and turn around to face these friends and relatives. They will have to kneel down and make a deep bow to these “guests” as a gesture of thanks and appreciation for turning up for the wake and funeral. After this, the procession will continue on….

The “nam moh lou” will lead them, chanting prayers and sprinkling small white rectangular papers into the air, bribing the malign spirits along the path to “move aside and make way”.  The funeral band played some solemn music as the cortege winds its way slowly along Hume Street…….what a sorrowful last journey on earth!

Perhaps the only consolation for the bereaved family is the belief that this death is not the end of it all. Death and rebirth is a continuous cycle, without a break, until Nirvana is attained. Nirvana means the cessation of birth and suffering. It is Enlightenment.

 

Part 2 ~ The most extravagant journey in life…..人生最昂贵之旅程

              http://www.ipohworld.org/?p=2064

Part 1 ~  Unfolding a Panorama Called Hume Street….伸展“谦街”的一幕

               http://www.ipohworld.org/?p=1956

The most extravagant journey in life…..人生最昂贵之旅程 (Part 2)

By |2010-07-17T01:02:01+08:00July 10th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|

 Hume Street is also known as “Koon Choy Kai” in Cantonese, meaning “Coffin Street”. Do you know why?

Phun Yue Wui Kun 潘禺会馆 , the tall building at the far right, is one of the busiest funeral parlors along Hume Street. It caters to those who died away from home and also one who died young and unmarried. It is “fully occupied” the whole year. Sometimes two families even “shared” the premise at the same time. So, can you imagine how many people died in a single day?

Above this funeral parlor is a convalescent home, which is a dreadful place to stay. It is a place for the aged and sick to wait for the Grim Reaper. Many families send their old and sick relatives here to live out their last days after which the deceased is carried down stairs for the last rites.

It is very expensive for a Chinese “to die”. Unlike other cultures, this “once in a life time” event called for spending on many expensive items which are “unavoidable”. 

On the extreme right are some casket shops. The owners of these casket shops are very aggressive and competitive. With a walkie-talkie in hand in those days, and a mobile phone in modern times, they waited at hospital mortuaries, clamoring for business when they spotted a bereaved family. Some even “combed” the ICU wards to search for potential customers! Each will try to offer their best “deal” or “package”.

Most of them doubled up as priests or “nam moh lou” who will conduct wakes and funerals. It is a skill that took many years to master and is usually handed down from one generation to the next. In those days, a “nam moh lou” is usually a middle aged man but now you can find young and handsome guys, their sons, perhaps. Ever heard of overseas university graduates with degrees in accounting or business management coming back home to take over their father’s trade as “nam moh lou”?  I have. It is that lucrative!

Do you know how a casket is chosen? According to the casket shop owner whom my family knew, when somebody dies, the “nam moh lou” together with the kin, will light up a joss stick, chant some prayers and “lead” the dead soul to the casket shop where they will wait for a signal, normally a faint knocking sound coming from the casket which the deceased “fancies”! Throwing 2 small pieces of wood on the floor will confirmed the choice.

In those days, the casket was made in the traditional style, a long rectangular box with 3 humps. It was big and heavy, normally made from teak or pine wood. It is very frightening just to look at them. But today, they are very modern and westernized. Just a rectangular box with gold flower handles and came with a small glass window where one can see the deceased’s face as he or she laid inside.  A casket is normally expensive, costing several thousand dollars each.

A bereaved family will always try to indulge on the deceased. A suit made from expensive silk cloth with dragon and flowers motifs were usually bought to dress the deceased. They came in silver, gold or blue color. A cap and a pair of sandals of similar material and color were normally chosen to complete the look for a “grand exit.” The richer and older the deceased, the grander his or her suit will be.

The casket shops also offer to bathe and dress the corpse for a fee. Another spin off trade is to provide “make up” for female corpse. Arch eyebrows, blue eye shadow, pink cheeks, red lipsticks and hair neatly combed into place. Yes, all women like to look beautiful, even in death! After the bathing and make up session was done, a special ancient Chinese coin is placed between the lips of the deceased for him or her to bribe the guards in the hereafter! Yes, they even practice corruption in hell!!  

An umbrella made from oiled paper in light brown color is purchased from these shops. It is opened up and placed on top of the coffin to provide “shelter” for the deceased on the way to the hereafter.

For those who chose cremation, rows of marble and porcelain urns were available in these shops to choose from. They came in white for marble while the porcelain ones are normally in maroon, green or yellow. There were intricate designs of dragons, unicorns and flowers on the urns and Chinese characters “sau 寿” meaning “longevity” were crafted on them. For those who chooses burial, they will have to buy a plot of land and it is even more expensive, especially those with good “feng-shui 风水”.  Expect to pay between RM50,000 to RM80,000 especially in memorial parks with beautiful landscapes. Normally the owners of these casket shops will act as middle man between the family and the developer of these memorial parks.

These shops also sell mourning clothes. Normally black clothes, sack vests, white hoods over the heads  and white waist bands were reserved for the children and daughters –in laws to show that they are the closest and grieved the most. It is blue clothes and white waist band for grandchildren and great grandchildren. The son-in laws wears light color clothes and white waist bands because they are considered “outsiders” since they have no blood relation and did not shared the family surname with the deceased.

There were a few shops specializing in making paper offerings for the deceased. Among the things a dead person needed in the afterlife was a big double storey mansion completed with a pair of male and female servants, a big limousine with a driver and of course everyday items like TV set, fan, mahjong table and chairs, suitcase with clothes, shoes, accessories like watch and jewelries and not forgetting hell bank notes, lots of them! They said if one cannot have luxury on earth, at least one can after death.

In those days, a lorry is often used as a hearse. A large portrait of the deceased is put in front of the vehicle at the center and surrounded by a flower garland. Nowadays, modern vehicles like MPV were used. Two white lanterns with the deceased’s surname and age written were hang on each side of the hearse, ready for the last journey on earth. And in this case, that journey starts from Hume Street!

Don’t you agree it is a rather long and expensive shopping list, one that will surely burn a hole in the pocket?

Final part ~ One journey has ended. Another is about to begin…… 今世毕. 来世始…

                     http://www.ipohworld.org/?p=2131

Part 1       ~  Unfolding a Panorama Called Hume Street….伸展“谦街”的一幕

                     http://www.ipohworld.org/?p=1956

Unfolding a Panorama Called Hume Street….伸展“谦街” 的一幕(Part 1)

By |2010-07-17T01:02:57+08:00July 3rd, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories, People, Perak heritage Society|Tags: , , , , , , , |

A stone’s throw away from #188 is Hume Street, now known as Jalan Mesjid. Along this short but interesting street, one can find many traditional trades co- existing harmoniously with modern ones.

Let’s start with this building at the junction of Hume Street谦街 ” and Jalan Yang Kalsom. This building once housed the Century Omnibus Station (百年车站). It was there for many decades. Their red coloured rickety buses plied from town to Taman Chempaka, Ampang, Chemor, Tanjung Rambutan and the Race Course along Tambun Road. Back in the 60s and 70s, this was a bustling place, along with some taxis in front.

There were rows of long wooden benches outside. A jukebox in the coffee shop next to the bus station always blasted out English songs which my mom loved although she did not understand a word of English. The most memorable ones were those favorite songs sung by Elvis, Beatles, Bee Gees, Osmond Brothers, Jackson Five, etc.

One night in the early 80s, a big fire gutted the station and a few buses were destroyed. Many people came out to watch the fire and even the FRU were called in to control the swelling crowd. Those staying in the vicinity were worried that the fire might spread because of the electrical wires linking the bus station to the row of shops opposite. Luckily that did not happen and the fire was eventually brought down. A few years later, the bus station closed down and today, this place is taken over by travel agencies and a locksmith.

A few steps away, one can see many shops dealing in various traditional trades like making paper offerings, lorry tarpaulins, sofa covers, curtains, car upholsteries, tailoring, hair dressing and motor workshops.

Just opposite were some funeral parlours with convalescent homes on the upper floors and of course, a few shops selling coffins.

Further down is the iconic Rex Cinema which faces Brewster Road. In its heyday, this cinema was filled to the brim with patrons watching mainly Cantonese movies. You could find stalls selling sugar cane juice, yellow steamed peanuts, kacang putih and even plastic toys outside. Inside the cinema, there were stalls selling light snacks like sweets, chewing gum, sour plums, salted groundnuts, dried red ginger and prawn crackers.

Today, this place is occupied by a furniture shop and a car park. The stone benches in front are not there anymore. Dad and I would sit there to eat “kuaci” or melon seeds, yellow steamed peanuts and “lin toong” or seeds of the lotus plants after a movie.

Across from the cinema you will find some coffee shops, clan associations, mahjong parlors, a pet shop, an optical shop and one that makes car plates and rubber stamps. You will also find the Kinta Small Traders Association here. At the isolated end of this street is the Panglima Kinta Mosque near the Kinta River bank, the oldest in Ipoh.

Unfolding the panoramic Hume Street brought back some fond memories. When I was about 5 or 6, some nights after my eldest siblings were asleep, the owl in me would pester my dad to take me out for walks around the neighborhood. Dad called it “jalan jalan” or “sau kai” in Cantonese.

First, he took me to Jubilee Park for a ride on the musical carousel and the breathtaking giant wheel. After that, we will head straight to Hume Street for a light supper at the “luk luk” stall in front of the shop next to the coffee shop in brown paint. I usually chose a few sticks of fish balls and squid and dipped them into the boiling water. Next, I would apply some red colored sweet sauce or “tim cheong” on them before eating. Hmm, yummy, yummy!

After that, it was time to go home when we had had enough.

Many shops along Hume Street were already closed by then, so was the bus station. We quickened our steps as the place was dark and quiet. If we were out too late, Mom would scold us because she believed some malicious spirits were lurking at the corners along this street and these would make children fall sick!

Ah, if only I could turn back the clock and walk down this path again with dad holding my hands, just one more time……

Final part ~ One journey has ended. Another is about to begin…… 今世毕. 来世始…

                   http://www.ipohworld.org/?p=2131

Part 2       ~ The most extravagant journey in life…..人生最昂贵之旅程

                   http://www.ipohworld.org/?p=2064

 

 

Note : Special thanks to Aaron Ong who kindly took these photos and shared them with us here. 

Old Town Heritage Walk Every Saturday

By |2011-08-09T19:12:27+08:00July 2nd, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , |

This blog is published at the request of Kinta Heritage Group

PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL ENQUIRIES SHOULD BE PASSED TO

MR RAJA, +6012 524 2357

 

 

Ipoh Heritage Walk (Old Town)

 

Come and experience the grandeur of this beautiful city and learn why the town that tin built became known as the City of Millionaires.

 

Departing every Saturday from the main entrance of Ipoh Railway station at 8:00 AM.

 

Conducted by Mr. Rajasegaran, a licensed Tour guide and member of Kinta Heritage Group.

 

Fee is RM 20 per person – All are welcome!

 

 

JEJAK WARISAN IPOH (PEKAN LAMA)

 

MARI MENGALAMI KECANTIKAN BANDAR IPOH DAN SAMBIL BELAJAR BAGAIMANA IPOH MENJADI BANDAR YANG DIKENALI RAMAI SEBAGAI PEKAN JUTAWAN HASIL DARI PERKEMBANGAN BIJIH TIMAH.

 

PERJALANAN AKAN BERMULA DARI PINTU UTAMA STESYEN KERETA API

 SETIAP HARI SABTU PADA PUKUL 8:00 PAGI.

 

ROMBONGAN ADALAH DIBIMBINGI  OLEH ENCIK RAJASEGARAN, PEMANDU PELANCONG BERLESEN DAN JUGA AHLI DARI KINTA HERITAGE  GROUP

 

PENYERTAAN RM 20 DAN SEMUA DIJEMPUT.

 

 

怡保旧街场文化遗迹之

 

让我们共同欣赏怡保独有的山城之美,同时了解这座原是貌不起眼的小镇如何通过锡米发展蜕变成富豪之城。

 

此趟文化遗迹之行将由近打文化遗迹队会员资深导游拉惹锡加兰先生 (Rajasegaran带领我们深入体会。

 

就让我们约定您每逢星期六早上八时,从怡保火车站门口一起踏上不一样的文化遗迹之行。

 

欢迎各方踊跃参与

 

PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL ENQUIRIES SHOULD BE PASSED TO

MR RAJA, +6012 524 2357

June 2010

A Monday-Mystery…

By |2010-06-28T03:39:32+08:00June 28th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

We have here a postcard, from roughly the 1930s. At the top, right, it says “Belfield Street”.

The mystery here is this: on the far left of the picture, is a building that says ‘E.W. FMS Hotel’. Was this the location of the 1st FMS Bar and Restaurant?

Notice too that almost across the street from the said FMS building is Mikasa Photo Shop (which seems to be promoting a ‘cheap sale’). Along the same row of this FMS building is also Abdullah Cigarettes, Hock Hin & Co, and a shop lot owned by Labrooy (which probably was Caxton Press).

We hope our fans out there can shed some light on our mystery……..

The forgotten skillful scissors sharpener of Ipoh….

By |2010-07-03T08:23:19+08:00June 25th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , |

Dad has only a primary education. Without a stable job, it is difficult to feed a large family. We have already pawned whatever that can be pawned. We were close to living in poverty.

Finally, Grandma let out the front portion of #188 to a couple who turned it into a mahjong parlor.  Many whores, massage ladies, bargirls, pimps, hawkers, taxi drivers and housewives came in for several rounds. It became a very noisy place, sometimes extending into the wee small hours. Many times fights broke out and the police were called in to break them up. What was once a home to us suddenly became a vice den filled with cigarette smoke and vulgar languages.  Sometimes we could not even hear our own voice with all the noises around us.

We kept to ourselves, spending our time mostly upstairs but it was already filled to the brim with tenants. There is hardly any space left for us to study in. This was the last straw for Dad. In a fit, he kicked all the mahjong players out and took back the shop for us to study in peace.

In his early days, Dad was trained in a mechanical work shop in Batu Gajah before the Japanese invasion interrupted his apprenticeship.

      

 He quickly got hold of some motor parts and assembled them into something you see in these pictures. I really do not know what to call it. There is no name for it. We simply called it “the motor”.  It was this device that gave our family hopes again. More importantly, it put food on our table and saw all of us through school.

You see, with this device, Dad started another business. He cycled to all the tailor shops, hair salons and garment  factories in Ipoh town, offering to sharpen their scissors.  In the beginning, business was quite scarce. Nobody would trust him with their cutting tools. After all, he was just a new kid on the block in this trade.

There were some established ones in town. There is one at Cockman Street, next to the shop that sells joss sticks and paper offerings. Others operated along back alleys in the old town area, doing their business long before my Dad appeared in the picture.

However, with patience and skill, he soon won them over. Before long, they discovered that the sharpness lasts longer compared to those done by others. Moreover, Dad charged the same like the rest, RM1 for a pair. Within 2 years, he managed to build a base of regular customers.

He even painted his own signboard and put it in front of the shop every morning before he started work. I remembered it was a big scissors with a light blue background. The blades were painted in silver while the handles were in black. It was just a picture, without words.

Dad used sharpening stones or whetstones to sharpen the scissors.  Some came in the shape of a small circular wheel which was fixed to the motor. Others were simply blocks of rough or smooth stones.

 

They were used separately or in combination, depending on the size, length and quality of the scissors. Normally the bigger, longer and superior blades were sharpened using the motor while the smaller, shorter and inferior ones were done by hand only, to prevent them from breaking.

Yes, the blades can break under intense pressure! I have seen this before and in the end, Dad has to compensate his customer with a new pair of scissors.

To sharpen a pair of scissors, Dad unscrewed the bolt and nut to separate the two blades. Dipping the scissors and sharpening stone into a pail of water to make them wet, he would slide the beveled edge on one side of each blade against the stone.  He has to slide the entire length of the blade many times before the scissors is sharp enough to be oiled and screwed back.

Sometimes it took 2 or 3 hours to sharpen one and sometimes, in less than half an hour, depending on the scissors. He also sharpened kitchen knives and all kinds of cutting tools.

It was hard work. It was a one man show. With so many scissors to be sharpen and everyone wanted it done quickly, Dad has to work from morning till night, standing on his feet. He could not get the work done sitting down because, to slide the blade, he needed to use force.

Therefore, his feet would get swollen by the end of the day. His hands numbed and his back pained by the many hours of bending over the work table. Sometimes he accidentally cut his fingers and bled. With a bandaged hand, he continued with the work because he has datelines to meet and many mouths to feed.

Many customers told Dad he was the best scissors sharpener in town. They wanted him to sharpen their scissors in the quickest possible time. Of course Dad could not meet their demands because he has so many scissors waiting for him to sharpen. It is piling up by the day.

“If you wanted it to be sharpen quickly, then please go to other scissors sharpener. Here, you have to wait longer as you can see the pile of scissors and I am doing the work alone!” he could AFFORD TO SCOLD his customers. Many were fearful of him but they loved his skill.

In the end, they meekly gave in and left their cutting tools with Dad. Many bought extra scissors to use while waiting for Dad to sharpen theirs. They preferred to wait for several days rather than go elsewhere. They knew they left their tools in good hands. Throughout all the years, no customers complained about Dad’s work, except that he was rather fierce when pressured!

When I was in Std 6, some foreign tourists past by Dad’s work place which was at the back portion of the shop. They were fascinated to see such a trade done in a traditional manner and decided to video and photograph him as he goes about doing his work.

Many people in the neighborhood called Dad “Scissors Sharpener Uncle” and Mom “Scissors Sharpener Aunty”. When I took taxis in front of Rex Cinema, many taxi drivers who knew Mom and Dad even called me “Scissors Sharpener Daughter”!! LOL.

Dad toiled on until all his children finished school and were able to stand on their own. By then he was old and haggard, having slogged most of his life. As a result of working too hard, it put a toll on his health. His heart became weak, his hands stiff with arthritis and his legs from rheumatism.

Dad retired in 1996 after 25 years in this business.  He spent the remaining years nursing his health and staying home resting after working hard most of his life.

This article is a tribute to Dad, a very determined man who believed in nothing and no one, except his own pair of hands and who overcame all odds that life threw into his path, without any help from anyone. I am very proud of him.

I am still keeping this motor with me as a remembrance of Dad who was once a very skillful scissors sharpener in Ipoh. It is a waste that his hand painted signboard became rusty after 25 years and he threw it away when he finally called it a day. But he gave me a pair of scissors and a few whetstones to keep as well.

 

A Great Looking Lam Looking

By |2010-06-22T23:49:51+08:00June 22nd, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories, Restoration|Tags: , , , , , , , , |

Yes ladies and gentlemen the exterior restoration of the Lam Looking building is complete, and it really is looking good. But before you feast your eyes on the wonderful building please allow me to show you what it looked like about 60 plus years ago when still in operation.

Well there you are, with the Celestial Hotel, Cabaret and Restaurant upstairs and the bazaar on the ground floor, this was a really happening place through the 30’s and 40’s. Even the Japanese partook of the delights of the upper floors and turned part of it into a high stakes gambling casino.

Later as the clientele diminished the hotel was turned into a cinema, The Movieland Theatre, specialising in Korean and Cantonese Opera movies. But soon that also went to the wall and after the fire we all thought the old girl was finished. How wrong we were and may I present a GREAT LOOKING LAM LOOKING, photo courtesy of Peter Wang Shaoming.

Ruth Iversen, daughter of the original architect, Berthel Michael Iversen must be delighted, and so are we for at last a major building in Ipoh has actually completed its restoration. Now we await completion of the Old Post Office. Let us hope the trend catches on.

But one final thought. “I wonder what they are going to use the building for?”

Way back when….

By |2010-06-14T03:43:38+08:00June 14th, 2010|Categories: ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , , |

…the Sun Cinema was still in one piece!

This picture we have here is from around 1985, a little after the Sun Cinema closed its doors to the public. It was located at the corner of Brewster Road and Hale Street (behind the building was the Kinta River). Incidentally, sketches of this cinema were done by our very own cartoonist Lat (in ‘Town Boy’).

Built in 1917 as the Oriental Cinema, by Leong Eng Khean (the son of Towkay Leong Fee), it was leased in 1920s to Run Run Shaw (of the Shaw Brothers). Shaw renamed it the Sun Cinema. Meanwhile, the Oriental Cinema rented the Harima Hall (1910-1917).

Sun was managed by Ho Ah Loke and in November 1929 showed ‘The Rainbow Man’ – the 1st of the “talkies” (movies with sound). ‘The Rainbow Man’ used a travelling movie company; after its success, Ho Ah Loke installed his own equipment. By the 1930s, Sun was deemed the most modern “talkie” theatre in Malaya!

Sadly, it closed down in 1983 – only to be replaced by a car park…..

A Bold Step …………

By |2010-06-13T03:25:49+08:00June 13th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

At last Perak State has made a bold and positive step in the UNESCO direction by declaring that Perak is preparing the nomination dossier for five locations to be presented to UNESCO to list them as World Heritage Sites.

In this firm and welcome statement, State Chairman for Industry, Investment, Industrial Development and Tourism, Datuk Hamidah Osman, said a committee had been formed comprising of the National Heritage Department, Tourism Perak, Ipoh and Taiping local councils, district offices, related government agencies together with the heritage societies to prepare the nomination documents. Under the nature category, the sites are Royal Belum (Tropical Rainforest and Biodiversity Heritage) and Gua Tempurung (Limestone Heritage), and under the Nature and Culture Category the locations identified are Taiping (Heritage Town), Kinta (Tin Heritage and encompassing the area between Ipoh, Batu Gajah and Kampar) and Ipoh City (Cultural Heritage).

Of course that is great news, particularly for those of us whose main interest is Ipoh and the Kinta Valley, but let us understand, UNESCO do not give away these accolades easily and in the case of Penang/Melaka the whole process took masses of work from all concerned over many years. So the people of Perak must be prepared to help wherever they can and be prepared for a long haul.

Now have a look at the following photos, all taken recently in Ipoh Old Town and you will see areas where planning and control by the authorities together with landowner responsibility have completely failed. Areas like these will make negotiations with UNESCO an uphill struggle unless they can be overcome. The pictures are not intended to highlight any one person or organisation but are just shots taken at random. There are dozens more examples in the same area.

Close to the defined heritage area and the river bank we have a permanent lorry park and ugly renovations.

Close by there are gaps like pulled teeth and turned into rough and unsightly car parks.

Buildings are abandoned and collapsing.

And many are simply neglected.

So having taken the first bold step the government/City Council now need to take another one and enforce planning and maintenance rules that accord with the UNESCO requirements from TODAY, for the fear is that landowners, afraid of UNESCO regulations will simply demolish their old buildings rather than risk additional expense in the future. They have taken such action before and no doubt will do it again unless prevented by law and the severest penalties.

And for us, the readers, please do support the various organisations like the heritage societies and tourist association in the above committee, I am sure they will welcome your help.

The day the curtain came down for Nam Foong Coffee Shop.

By |2010-07-04T00:58:36+08:00June 11th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|

 

 

Sometimes life can be cruel.

It was late 1969. Dad has a younger brother staying with us at #188. He was a carpenter at a furniture shop in Ipoh. A young man of just 23, he was healthy and full of life vitality. Everyone liked him. He was steady with a pretty girl next door and they dreamed of a happy life together. In fact, they were busy planning for their big day.

One night, looking into a mirror while combing his hair and getting ready for a date with his sweet heart, he saw a small lump on his neck, the size of a 5 cent coin.

Thinking it was an insect bite, he just applied some cream onto it and left it to heal by itself. But it did not, instead it got bigger by the day. Before long, it ballooned to the size of an adult’s fist. It was a malign tumor.

Dad was very worried for him. Being the eldest brother, he felt it was his duty to send him for treatments and  was prepared to bear the costs. Treatments were sought for him in Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur at private and government hospitals but to no avail.

In Singapore, doctors there advised Dad to send his brother for treatments in Canton, China. Overseas treatments are expensive but Dad did not mind paying to save a young life.

At first, he got better and stayed on for a year there for further treatments. But the tumor recurred and in the end, he passed on, after several unsuccessful operations. A wedding it was not to be but a funeral instead for this unlucky young man.

A few months later, paternal grandpa, a heavy smoker, was diagnosed with lung cancer. Again, as the eldest son, Dad did what is necessary for him but grandpa also lost the battle. The old man was given a proper last rite and burial. By then, Dad was almost broke to the bones.

Before he can even recover, along came a notice from the Ipoh municipality. Three conditions must be met before business license can be renewed again.

Firstly, operators of all eateries must tile the walls of their shops to 6 feet high. As the bucket system will be phased out in a few months time, all toilets must be converted to the flush system. Lastly, the whole shop must be repainted with white paint.

Dad simply cannot afford it anymore. Most of his savings were spent to treat his loved ones.

He went to see the shop owner, hoping to get some help. The shop owner stressed that he only let out an empty shop and will not bear any renovations done to it. It was clearly stated in the tenancy agreement and he was unmoved by Dad’s predicament. To add salt to injury, the rental was raise too. It has been a long time since the last raise, he pointed out.

As fate would have it, even the faithful stone grinder failed him too. After 25 years of heavy usage, the handle, made from hard wood, broke down. In fact, the whole thing, from wear and tear, is out of shape. It is time to order a new one from China. This will also cost a lot, especially the transportation’s fee.

Dad was at his wit’s end. No license. No tools. Rental has gone up.

Finally, he threw in the towel. The curtain came down on Nam Foong Coffee Shop in 1971, after 26 years of operation.

Our carefree childhood days abruptly came to an end when Dad lost his livelihood. What followed were the bleakest days of our lives. There were 8 hungry mouths to feed. We lived from hand to mouth for the next 2 or 3 years.

We did not celebrate Chinese New Year simply because we cannot afford to. It was just like any normal day for us.

No reunion dinner. No new clothes.

I still remembered how on the night of New Year’s Eve in 1971, Dad went out to buy 2 packets of fish ball noodles and asked Mom to divide it out among the children. Each of us would get a small portion it hardly filled up our hungry stomachs. That night, we all went to sleep early.

We could hear the fireworks outside welcoming the New Year and the children in the neighborhood running up and down merrily, playing firecrackers after their reunion dinner.

Her eyes red, Mom told us softly, “Go to sleep. Once you are asleep, you will forget you are hungry.”

I still remembered these words till this day.

Back in the 1970s, many people held their wedding banquets in Perak Ku Kong Chow Association at Jalan Yang Kalsom. Mom went there to work as a cleaner after the dinner has ended, to earn a few dollars. She would bring home some left- over food for us.

Succulent prawns, crispy fried chickens and tasty mushrooms which some people cannot take in anymore, we gulped these down hungrily. Sometimes, we could find some toothpicks and used tissue papers inside the gravy.

Despite the hardships, Dad held the family together and reminded us to study hard. He said, no matter what, we still have to go to school and learn. He believed, with a pair of strong hands, we will not be hungry again.

 

Note:

My late uncle was standing 3rd from left at the back row.

The couple in the middle, back row, were my parents while my grandpa was seated in the middle, front row. 

The original photo has been framed up and hung on the wall.

Ipoh’s Little India to be “Spruced Up”

By |2010-06-11T07:19:36+08:00June 11th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

The Ipoh Echo recently reported that Ipoh’s Little India is to be spruced up. The work is to be completed before Merdeka Day on August 31. The area being spruced up under a project financed by the Federal Government covers from the entrance of Jalan Leong Boon Swee into Jalan Lahat and carrying on into Jalan Sultan Yussuf (Belfield Street) up till the intersection with Jalan Sultan Iskandar Shah. The idea to give a facelift was mooted when the Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin visited the area last year and approved a RM1.5 million grant for the facelift. Plans for the facelift was drawn up by Ipoh City Council and presented to the residents in the area at a dialogue held last month to explain the changes about to be undertaken and to get their approval.

Among the changes to be made are replacing the interlocking bricks of the present pavements, laying interlocking pavers with motifs characteristic of Little India on the roads, installing decorative lamps and landscaping of the entire stretch. An arch will also be erected at the Dataran Little India (the small square in the centre of the area).

The existing memorial fountain (What memorial fountain?) will be demolished and in its place a stage will be constructed. A police pondok will also be located there to provide security.

Blocks of shop-houses within Little India will be painted with its original colours once all the rest of the sprucing up work has been completed.

Having read all of that I thought it would be usefdul to post the above picture of the square as it is today so that we may gain a comparison with the finished job.

And this is what the same place looked like in 1948.

Wouldn’t it be nice if all those terrible advertising signs be removed and the building allowed to show off their new paintwork as they originally did.

…and the Lucky Patron is….

By |2010-06-07T01:00:53+08:00June 7th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , |

Back in the 1950s, cinemas were a popular (probably the only) source of entertainment – television sets were not common and not everyone had a radio either! Hence, the cinema-experience was a real treat – especially for the little ones!

We received an interesting e-mail from Ignatius Chiew, regarding the ‘soft’ opening of Ipoh’s Cathay Cinema.

From the picture, we see the Lucky Patron (patron No. 500 000) receiving her double pass (for 1 month) as she arrives at the booking office. According to Ignatius, Cathay opened its doors to the public on 30th January 1957 – the eve of Chinese New Year – which was considered an auspicious day for business. Incidentally, Ignatius’ father was then the (first) manager of Cathay cinema.

Does anyone know WHEN exactly the half million patron mark was reached? We would like to know the date, and probably any other extra bit that you may know…..maybe someone might even know WHO the pretty lady in the picture is!

Nephew – May He Rest in Peace

By |2010-06-05T16:05:31+08:00June 5th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , |

Nephew of FMS fame was not only the well loved barman of the FMS, but he was friend and confidente of literally thousands of people from all over the globe who dropped in the FMS for a ‘quick one’ over his sixty years behind that famous old bar. Sadly he passed away this week and will never serve us a beer or one of his delightful meals again. An icon of Ipoh and part of the city’s history, he will be sorely missed when the FMS reopens its doors next year.

We pass ipohWorld’s condolences to his family.

“Oh No! …………..”

By |2010-06-04T09:34:14+08:00June 4th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, What is it?|Tags: , , , , |

“Oh No!” I can hear you say, “Not the clock tower AGAIN!”, but please be patient because this postcard sent to us as a scan was bought here in Ipoh in 1955 and there is something quite different about it.

“Different! What is different?”

Well, out of the many similar pictures we have seen from the inauguration in 1909 to today, we have never seen the wooden building at the bottom left of the picture. So please enlighten us by telling us what it was and when it was there.

We know that with so many readers with great memories of Ipoh, somebody will be able to tell us.

The “Lions” of Hugh Low Street…

By |2010-06-02T02:07:13+08:00June 2nd, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , |

This is a front view of No.188, Hugh Low Street – which used to be Ipohgal’s home. The picture was taken by Aaron Ong, who was inspired by Ipohgal’s description of her colourful childhood. The design of this house deserves a special mention – particularly the 2 lions on the roof (see picture below)

Like Ipohgal has mentioned, there are 2 lions on either side of a globe (in the centre). Were the lions part of a certain trademark? Or perhaps a unique ‘signature’ of a famous person? I do wonder if there are anymore of such designs on other buildings around Ipoh – maybe it was part of a series of buildings built by a particular architect! (for instance, the shop houses that Yau Tet Shin built all have a similar design).

We thank Aaron for the pictures, and also Ipohgal for sharing her fond memories with us.

May 2010

The Ipoh Town Hall

By |2010-05-31T08:10:50+08:00May 31st, 2010|Categories: ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , , |

Designed by A B Hubback, who also designed the Ipoh Railway Station, this work-of-art was completed in 1916. The east end of the building was used as the Post and Telegraphs Office in 1928. This building is still used today – be it for concerts, wedding banquets, official functions, etc. It’s also had some restoration work done over the years. At present, its neighbour the (former) Post Office is going through a much needed ‘make-over’.

We do hope this splendid work-of-art lives on for many more years……

” Tau Foo Far ” from Nam Foong Coffee Shop 南风茶室之豆腐花 – A taste from the past

By |2010-07-04T00:28:56+08:00May 28th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , , , , , |

    

         Bush Radio                       Marble Table                           Wooden Chairs

 

Besides being a home to my family, 188 Hugh Low Street was also once a coffee shop.

In 1945, an English man who was working and staying in Batu Gajah, retired and planned to return to England for good. He has a collection of marble tables and wooden chairs in his rented house. Unable to bring them along, he gave them away to the villagers nearby.

Dad got some tables and chairs and hired a small lorry to transport them to his newly rented shop in Ipoh. He bought a Bush Radio from a second hand dealer a few years later. Two hanging fans and fluorescent lamps were added to complete the ‘old world charm’ look. And voila, Nam Foong Coffee Shop南风茶室 was born!

Nam Foong is famous for its tau foo far, served with essence of almond in a small porcelain bowl. They are served either warm or chilled. It was sold at 5 cents a bowl in the 40s and 30 cents during the 60s.

It was hard work to make tau foo far. First, soya beans were soaked before being placed in between 2 round stone slabs to grind them. It is then cooked in a big wok using slow fire. Once it is boiled, it is filtered and poured into wooden tubs. Roasted lime stone powder is added to give it the right texture. Finally, they were scooped into hundreds of porcelain bowls.

Dad could take the easy way out by cooking gula Melaka or rock sugar to go with tau foo far, like what you are getting nowadays. But he will have none of this. To him, tau foo far is best eaten with essence of almond and nothing can convince him to think otherwise!

To produce the aromatic and sweet essence of almond call for skill. They were steamed and pounded to extract the essence which if done incorrectly, will give a bitter taste instead.

In those days, everything was done by hands. No machine is use, unlike now. The work was done by my parents and paternal grandma from night till dawn when everyone was sound asleep.

And do you know that the outcome is not the same every day? Dad was very strict with the end result. He will not settle for anything less. If he was satisfied with the texture, he will sell them. Otherwise, he would just pour them away and for that day, he will sell the normal stuff like coffee or toasted bread only.

The best soya beans came from Indonesia and Vietnam. Different batch of beans from the same source yield different results. The secret lay in choosing the right beans and using the right amount of each ingredient. It was a skill he learned from paternal grandpa who is very skillful in making soya bean products.

Soon words spread around about the smooth and aromatic tau foo far . Before long, it sold very well and on a good day, almost 200 bowls were sold. Patrons would park their cars near the shop to have a taste of this delicious dessert because back then, Dad would not allow take away in plastic bags. He insisted the tau foo far to be served in porcelain bowls to bring out the best in taste, aroma and texture.

A myriad of customers came in for this dessert. My elder brother’s headmaster, who is a Christian brother at Sam Tet School, occasionally cycled over for a few bowls in the hot afternoon. He came in his white robes and all!

Then there is the old blind masseur who roamed the town offering his service. When he called it a night, he would drop in for a bowl or two. Whenever I saw him coming, I would quickly ran and squatted under tables or hid behind doors because the sight of him wearing big dark glasses with bells in his hands simply petrified me. I was about 5 or 6 then.

The policemen from the police station opposite would come for the tau foo far too. Some of them would ask Dad, “Eh, towkay, apa benda ini hah…….sungguh sedap?”

Dad would reply, “ Ini tau foo far !”

“Apa….oh….tau foo farrrrrrrrr…..” and everyone would laugh.

Business was stable and the family could make a decent living.

However, some 25 years later, one day, Dad received a notice from the Ipoh municipality which changed our lives completely……

 

Note: The photos above showed a marble table, some wooden chairs and the old radio from Nam Foong Coffee Shop. Except for the radio which was broken down, the rest are still in use till today. During its prime, we can listen to stations all over the world, just imagine that!

188 Hugh Low Street – The home I once knew

By |2010-07-04T00:34:24+08:00May 21st, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , , , , , , |

Does this building looked familiar to you? It was located right in the middle of new town, along busy Hugh Low Street. It faced the junction of Cowan Street and Jalan Yang Kalsom. Just opposite is the new town police station. Adjacent is Hume Street.

Yes, I knew it looked abandoned and in a dilapidated condition. It stuck out like a sore thumb but it held many childhood memories for me. It is my childhood home. I have spent 24 years living in it.

Standing from the road and looking up, you will see two stone lions playing with a globe perched on the roof. I always used to wonder who the designer of this structure is and what it represented. Anyone knows of a similar structure elsewhere in Ipoh?

In its heyday, this building sported whitewash paint with green colored wooden windows and doors. On the upper floor, there are 6 rooms, a kitchen and a bathroom. This is where my paternal grandma, aunt, uncle, cousins, elder siblings and some tenants lived.

According to my parents, among the tenants is a beautiful cabaret girl working at the nearby Jubilee Park along Cowan Street. She is a mixed Chinese and Thai girl called Ah Hung. Other tenants would stand near the window and watched her bade him good night. Later, her brother got a tin mine to operate and she herself migrated to England and did not come back anymore. I am not sure if she has any kin around.

On the ground floor is a front hall, a room, a kitchen, a bathroom and two toilets. This is where Mom, Dad and I stayed.

In the early days, we used the bucket system. Night soil collectors in an orange coloured truck used to come every other evening to collect the waste using black rubber buckets. We always covered our noses whenever they come! Mom even lighted up a cheroot to fight the lingering stench. Only in the late 70s it was converted to the flush system.

The staircase, room partitions and upper floorings are made from very solid timber. It is a spacious and airy place. Such a joy to live in except for the toilets!

As children, we would come out and play in the evenings. We liked to play hide and seek among the pillars outside. We also played hopscotch and tops along the corridors. Sometimes we used to cycle along the back lane behind the shop with kites in our hands. After a shower of rain, we would throw paper boats into the drain outside the shop or catch small fish. Once, I fell into the drain together with a bicycle when a boy next door pushed me as we fought over some marbles. I lost my two front teeth!

An unforgettable incident happened on Chinese New Year’s eve in 1972. Grandma woke up early that morning to find an Indian man who worked as a shop assistant next door, hanging from a pillar in front of our shop. He was already dead for a few hours. She screamed and fainted at the sight.

Only a few days earlier, his toddler son fell into the same drain in a very heavy downpour. Before anyone could do anything, he was swept by the strong current into the connecting monsoon drain that flows into Sungai Kinta. His body was never found.

Back in the 70s, Dad let out the corridor outside to an Indian barber called Subramaniam. Sometimes, his son Morgan would help out when business is good. And their business is good most of the time.

Every year, the Nine Emperor Gods procession will pass by the shop on its way back to the Tow Boo Keong Temple at Jalan Tokong. We have a good view from our windows as people crowded the street below jostling for a better view. Under the hot blazing sun they looked up at us enviously!

My family stayed here for a total of 55 years. It was only like yesterday but actually so long ago. I hate to see it being demolish someday…..

Ipoh’s ‘Puduraya’?

By |2010-05-21T04:14:03+08:00May 21st, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , |

I’m sure many of you out there recognize this place!

Today, it’s mainly a stop for the inter-city buses – since Medan Gopeng now handles the inter-state services. But the place is still BUSY!

Such buses (as in the picture) are still around today, along with the new air-conditioned buses too! The roundabout has had a make-over of sorts: with a peculiar arrangement of labu sayong and flowering plants. Those trees on the top left corner have made way for a petrol station.

Has anything else changed?

天长地久 ……Forever and ever…….

By |2010-07-04T00:44:05+08:00May 12th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , , , , |

          

“To have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part.”

 After the Japanese left Malaya in 1945, Dad had wanted to resume with his apprenticeship at the village workshop in Batu Gajah but found it was burnt down. The owner and his entire family were killed by the Japanese soldiers.

He was already 25. So the next step would be to move to Ipoh to start a new life. With RM300 in his pocket, he rented a place and started a coffee shop with his mother and sisters. That was how Nam Foong Coffee Shop at 188 Hugh Low Street began.

As time went by, business began to pick up and he needed an extra pair of hands. It was also time he needed a companion too. So he was looking for two persons rolled in one.

At the same time, Mom was hoping to escape from childhood poverty and a nagging stepmother. She was a young girl of 15 staying in Kampung Kuchai.

Through a match maker, photos were exchanged and a meeting arranged for them. And it turned out to be love at first sight for them both. Months later, they were engaged.

During their courtship they like to stroll along Hugh Low Bridge, People’s Park and Birch Bridge in the evenings. Sometimes they would go to cinema halls to watch a movie or two and to Jubilee Park for amusement. They often took a ride around town in a rickshaw because Dad could not afford to buy a car.

Mom and Dad eventually got married on November 22 1950 immediately after she reached the age of 20. It was a modest wedding attended by family and friends from both sides. A wedding luncheon was held at the Nam Hoi Wui Khun (Nam Hoi Association) along Clare Street.

Like any couples, they had their fair share of quarrels and fights but nothing could rock their strong and solid union. Despite everything, they stayed glued together to weather out all the hardships and obstacles that came their way in raising a large family.

In April 2000, Mom was diagnosed with end stage kidney failure. Dad was very devastated. He just broke down and cried. It was almost like his whole world collapsed on him. Knowing her end was very near, he helped me to take loving and tender care of her although he was already 80 and frail.

Mom succumbed to a heart attack on 24 November 2000 at home with Dad and me by her side. It was only 2 days after their 50th golden wedding anniversary which they could not celebrate due to her illness. Dad was beyond consolation. He had lost a partner of 50 years and the greatest love of his life. A loss so profound he could not recover from, even after many years.

When he passed on later, after 7 lonely years, their ashes were finally placed side by side at the Paradise Memorial Park in Tanjung Rambutan.

                      天长地久 ……Forever and ever……..

 

* HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY 母亲节快乐      http://www.ipohworld.org/?p=1585

* At the doorstep of hell….well,almost.   http://www.ipohworld.org/?p=1489

A Cry For Help

By |2010-05-12T16:08:42+08:00May 12th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town|Tags: , |

Hi,

 

The Ipohworld’s World blog is wonderful.

 

I tried to find in your posts information about one building which is located near the roundabout at Gopeng Road and Jalan Tambun, diagonally opposite Yuk Choy Primary School, but I haven’t been able to.

 

A large furniture shop is now built in front of it (Kota Furniture). I knew that formally the building that has a large compound belonged to Kok Kee Restaurant but who owned the original building? The original owner was probably a Cheong family, since there’s a gate with the inscriptions “C” and Cheong.

 

I have attached a few photographs taken last year at this place, but regrettably, I did not manage to get a picture of the front of the building because the furniture shop owner built extensions out from the front of the building, concealing the front porch of it.

 

 

I am hoping someone can provide the history and show photos of the original stone building.

 

Sincerely,

Choymun

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY 母亲节快乐

By |2010-07-04T00:48:53+08:00May 7th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , , |

 

A TRIBUTE TO MOM  献给天下间的母亲

Dearest Mom, how can I ever forget

the simple joy of nestling in your loving arms

and suckling contently at your milky breasts

that gave me the nourishments of life.

Dearest Mom, how can I ever describe

your kind smile that I saw through my tears

as I took a fall and you whispered to my ears

that it is sometimes alright to take a tumble in life.

Dearest Mom, how can I ever thank you enough

for the wisdom that you taught me as I grew up

and the love you gave me so unconditionally

which is the sweetest nectar I have tasted in life.

The lovely lady in this photo is my beloved late mom, Madam Chow Chiew Sai. This photo was taken in 1945 for match making purpose. It was taken at an unknown studio in Ipoh, most probably near Kg Kuchai where she stayed during her younger days. In those days, match making was the norm upon reaching marriageable age.

In this photo she sported the “abalone” hairstyle made famous by the popular mainland Chinese songstress, Zhou Xuen周璇. Mom was a big fan, always humming her songs as she goes about doing her chores. For this photo session, she also sewed herself a set of samfoo to complete the pretty look. Needless to say, she won my dad’s heart straight away!

From cradle to grave, Mom never had it easy. Her own mother died when she was only six and being the eldest child, she had to take care of her siblings and doing all the house work even though she is still a child herself. And in those days there were no electricity or tap water, much less gas stove! So she has to draw water from the well and chop fire woods as a child.

After marriage, she had to face abusive in- laws and in old age debilitating illness.But Mom is a very resilient and gentle person. She has never throw a tantrum nor even rise her voice. Despite the many hardships, she and Dad managed to give my siblings and me a decent childhood and for that we are forever indebted and grateful to them both.

This coming Sunday is Mother’s Day. Even though she is no longer with me but she is always in my heart and in my mind. And I like to take this opportunity to thank her and also to wish her a Happy Mother’s Day and may she rest in eternal peace.

Of course, I also like to wish all the wonderful moms in the world a HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY. Mothers are our guardian angels. As the Jewish proverb puts it aptly “God cannot be everywhere, therefore he created mothers.”

…..perfect for a hot afternoon!

By |2010-05-09T11:48:49+08:00May 7th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , , , , , , , , |

My name is Mohammed Salleh, age 39, married with three children. I am one of the many hawkers in town selling ‘chendol’ for the past 22 years. You can find me daily at the Magistrate Court compound in the morning; around Railway Station at one o’clock; and at Hale Street (opposite Town Padang) from 3 pm. I finish work at about 5pm.

He used to be one of the many hawkers who served locals (and probably foreigners too!) back in the 70s. Anyone tried his famous ‘chendol’?

April 2010

Ipoh’s General Hospital

By |2010-04-30T07:10:58+08:00April 30th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , |

The former Out Patient department of the Ipoh General Hospital. We think this picture was probably taken in the late 80s (if we’re wrong, let us know!). At present, this building has been given a more modern ‘make-over’.

Also notice in the background – far right, the Municipal building (Majlis Bandaraya Ipoh).

How ‘Majestic’ !

By |2010-04-23T03:43:50+08:00April 23rd, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

This art-deco styled cinema was designed by B M Iversen and built in the late 1940s. It was said to be a popular Chinese movie cinema, which later went on to show English, Malay, Hindi and Tamil movies in the 80s. The theatre finally closed in 1998. The elegent building now stands alone at Chamberlain Road.

This picture, of one of Iversen’s beauties, was taken in the 1970s – when the theatre was still in use.

A Page from the Past

By |2010-04-21T00:56:06+08:00April 21st, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, People|Tags: , , , , |

This road block was at the junction of Brewster Road and Cockman Street. Judging from the uniforms, we think this happened in 1975 – if we’re wrong, let us know!

In the picture, there is the famous United Optical Company and the Ipoh branch of Straits Echo.

We’re looking forward to your comments…..

The Eastern Hotel

By |2010-04-12T08:27:15+08:00April 12th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , |

The location was good; at the heart of town, with neighbouring banks, theatres, commercial buildings and within easy communication. Back in the 70s, the room rates were quite affordable – $55 for a Twin-sharing De Luxe room! The air-conditioned rooms even had TV sets installed!

Besides the luxuries it offered, there was also a restaurant and dining room which served both Chinese and European food. I remember it as ‘Rondezvous’ and it was on the ground floor of the hotel. Last I checked, the restaurant was gone – anyone know what it’s called now?

Ipoh’s ‘Tall Tower’!

By |2011-01-12T10:37:50+08:00April 9th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

This cinema was built in the 1930s, adjacent to a Christian graveyard – rumour has it that if you took off your shoes inside, you might not find them again when the lights come on! The picture shown here was taken in 1971, after the cinema was renovated.

I’m sure most of you know this Brewster Road cinema! Wonder what’s become of it now? After the fire in 2007, it seems to have just ‘stood still’……..

“..the way we were…”

By |2010-04-07T02:17:43+08:00April 7th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, Natural Heritage|Tags: , , , |

Here’s a section of Ipoh Old Town, said to be taken from the top of the state mosque’s minaret. In the background (left) is the Ipoh Padang and a row of giant common ru. Further back, are the limestone hills – something Ipoh has always been noted for!

This was what the area used to look like, back in the early 1970s. Of course now, things have changed a bit – for better or worse, depends on personal opinion I suppose. But, from what we’ve discovered lately……the Birch Clock Tower has been painted pink!

Has anything else been ‘altered’ dramatically in this area?

The E W Birch Fountain

By |2010-04-05T07:36:57+08:00April 5th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

This all-marble fountain was built in memory of E W Birch, Perak’s British Resident from 1905-1910. It was at the south end of Belfield street – sadly, now another fountain has replaced this beauty!

We were once told by a senior resident of Ipoh, that during the Japanese Occupation the four corners of the fountain were ‘decorated’ with severed heads!

Also, later in 1957, the Town Council had a sign put up at the base – to prevent people from drying their laundry/chillies/and other such food stuff by the fountain!

Anybody out there have ‘other’ such memories of this fountain? I also wonder what’s become of the original marble fountain…….

It’s Qing Ming Tomorrow!

By |2010-04-04T10:23:55+08:00April 4th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories, People|Tags: , , , , , |

The Qing Ming Festival, the Clear Bright Festival, Ancestors Day or Tomb Sweeping Day is a traditional Chinese festival which falls on the first day of the fifth solar term. It denotes a time for people to go outside and enjoy the greenery of springtime and tend to the graves of departed ones. This year it falls on 5 April – tomorrow.

Consequently we thought we should feature Ipoh’s most unusual grave, tucked in between MGS and a used car saleroom in Jalan Chamberlain Hulu, right in the middle of the city. But don’t worry for this has no bodies buried there nor spirits to wander in the dead of night for this is the Guandong Grave as the inscripion shows.

It reads “Worshipping altar of the Guandong grave” and was placed there to allow all the Chinese immigrants in Ipoh to pray to their ancestors as they could not do so at the graves in their home villages. The second inscription below (gold on grey) gives the history as being built during the reign of Emperor Guangxu (1878 to 1908). Consequently, when this grave was built there was no Ipoh New Town and it would have been among the padi fields and pig farms. Unfortunately the actual date is in a classical Chinese form that we have not yet been able to translate. The inscription also records that the grave was restored by the Perak Guangdong Association on 18 August 2003. 

This final picture shows the inscription on the small altar to the right (just visible on picture one). This is the symbolic grave of the God of the Earth for those who wish to pray to him. No doubt all the mining coolies needed his help!

This is a real piece of Ipoh’s heritage as it has probably been there since 1895 or before!

Ipoh’s ‘Round Market’

By |2010-04-02T01:29:51+08:00April 2nd, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

 

This famous Ipoh landmark opened in 1962. Designed by Booty Edwards & Partners, the place offered each trader equal space for his/her shoplot.

The Yau Tet Shin bazaar was known to the locals as Pasar Bulat (Round / Circular Market); it offered everything from suitcases and travelling bags, to Pomelo and Groundnut stalls, and it also had 3 Chinese Restaurants – one of which was featured in our previous blog post.

40 years later (in 2002) this landmark was ‘flattened’ and now turned into a car park. I remember 2 stalls there which I once visited – a Chinese tailor, and a bag stall where I bought my first school bag.

I’m sure some of you out there visited the bazaar, before it ‘vanished’……

March 2010

Chow Kee Restaurant, Cowan Street, Ipoh

By |2010-03-31T07:01:11+08:00March 31st, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

This restaurant was said to be famous for Chinese Delicacies and Tanjong Tualang Fresh Water Prawns. Probably one the few air-conditioned restaurants at that time (1970s), it was located at the Yau Tet Shin Market & Shopping Centre; along Cowan Street in Ipoh.

Sadly, the Yau Tet Shin Market is not there anymore (now turned into a car park). Maybe someone out there has been to this restaurant?

A Festival and a Parade – Cowan Street, Ipoh

By |2010-03-26T00:43:05+08:00March 26th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

It was a bright sunny morning when these men in white went round the town carrying this float. We were told it was in conjunction with the 9-God Festival. In the background is a famous Ipoh food-haunt – Wan Nan Hotel and Restaurant. The restaurant is still there – still crowded on weekends and public holidays (recently, I’ve somehow become a fan of their Dim Sum!).

This second picture was taken further down Cowan Street. It’s the Chingay parade, and we think both these pictures were taken around the year 1947 – we could be wrong, so YOU decide!

Do let us know if any of you out there have witnessed such festivals / parades…especially in Ipoh!

One for the Album….

By |2010-03-19T07:32:49+08:00March 19th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, People|Tags: |

Here we have two gentlemen posing outside the Perak Chinese Rubber Association. We think the picture was probably taken after 1959, since that was the year the building was built.

Since we know nothing about the place, we’d like to ask any of you out there: Do you know where in Ipoh this building is? (or if it’s not in Ipoh, then which other town).

‘…Mama, don’t I look cute? ‘

By |2010-03-17T04:19:29+08:00March 17th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Uncategorized|Tags: , , , , , |

This little girl is standing by the famous Sultan Yussuf Fountain. This fountain is at a roundabout; which connects Brewster Road, Tambun Road, Gopeng Road and Hugh Low Street. The fountain was donated by the Turf Club, as part of their attempts to beautify Ipoh. The Turf Club also came up with the Japanese Garden – which is along Tambun Road.

Ipoh’s Airport, 1978

By |2010-03-15T07:49:38+08:00March 15th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories, People, Uncategorized|Tags: |

The Ipoh Airport started out as a private airfield in the 1930s. It was only in 1947 that the first commercial flight was introduced. Later, in the 1980s, the airport runway was extended.

Here we have a photograph of a family at the Ipoh Airport, taken in 1978. In the background (top, left) is the airport’s control tower. Recently, there were plans to further extend the runway as well as other ideas for a make-over. Anyone out there know what’s the latest news on this?

….in the days before Malls and Video Games….

By |2010-03-08T06:52:06+08:00March 8th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , |

Jubilee Park was once Ipoh’s foremost entertainment centre. Built by the Danish architect BM Iversen, some of the attractions within this 4-acre park were the Grand Theatre, the Chinese Concert Hall and the Jubilee Cabaret. Interestingly, it was originally called the ‘Ipoh Amusement Park’, but later the owners (the Shaw Brothers of course!) renamed it ‘Jubilee Park’ in 1935 – in honour of King George V’s Silver Jubilee.

Sadly, the Jubilee Park of today is but a shell of its former self. I do wonder what has become of it…

Priceless Artistry in Ipoh? “Ah Fatt’s Car”

By |2010-03-07T03:53:28+08:00March 7th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , , |

A wander around Kampung Kuchai in the heart of Ipoh certainly gives the photographer something to concentrate on. We have featured the area before with the old house, the Beetle and the MG Magnette, but nothing as artistic as this (literally) heap of junk.

Here we have a real piece of artistry! How the owner managed to get all of that stuff piled on the roof of the van to actually stay there, I just don’t know.

Obviously proud of his work the artist has left his name and telephone number and entitled the work “Ah Fatt’s Car”. Perhaps he is waiting for one of the London galleries to call him to an art exhibition. After all this is far more interesting and colourful than much of the so-called art they display.

…..the year was 1967….

By |2010-03-05T05:48:12+08:00March 5th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , , |

….when ‘Alvarez Kelly’ was being shown in Ruby Theatre. (Yes, on the far right is the cinema hall which was part of the Lau Ek Ching building, along Anderson Road.)

William Holden played a ‘suave Mexican cattleman’ named Alvarez Kelly who unwillingly found himself caught in a Civil War. Well, to those of you who saw the movie – you know what happened next!

Facing the camera is the Federal Hotel and Restaurant. From what Google told us, the hotel is STILL there! Somewhere behind this hotel is another cinema – Cathay. Incidentally, Cathay was showing ‘One of Our Spies is Missing’ – a movie from the famed ‘The Man from U.N.C.L.E’ series.

I wonder how many Solo and Kuryakin fans saw the movie!!

February 2010

FMS Bar and Restaurant – Today’s Update

By |2010-02-27T04:29:53+08:00February 27th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , |

Over the past few days there have been several comments about our last post that featured the FMS Bar and so while in Old Town searching for the MG logo (previous post) I took the opportunity to take the above photo to demonstrate what is being done to the pillars. As you can see they are being put back to original.

Coincidentally there is an article in todays New Straits Times that seems to confirm the rumour that the building will be returned fully to its original status, i.e. a hotel as well as restaurant and bar. See http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/articles/22fma/Article/index_html

new iMaGes to view

By |2010-02-27T02:03:43+08:00February 27th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

Our earlier post about the old MG in Kampung Kuchai (put up specially for antiquelad) led to Raz alerting us to this MG logo set in the 5 foot way in Old Town. Early this morning I set off to locate it and thanks to Daniel’s advice in an earlier comment I found it at No. 8 Hugh Low Street.

It is in front of this shop which we understand is a gunsmiths shop that 2 generations ago used to sell MG motor spares. Of course as it was before 8am on Saturday, I could not enquire further but will follow up on a working day.

But there is another interesting logo as shown above. There are two of these set into the supporting pillars each side of the shop and of course they stand for Guan Hoe. With the electric cable sheathing passing in front of them these logos are most probably original and installed when the shop was first built. Clearly I need to get back to find out more.

Another Classic Piece of Ipoh’s History

By |2010-02-24T01:00:24+08:00February 24th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , , |

Yes, just a few metres from the Beetle lies this grand old vehicle. If you don’t recognise it then have a look at this:

It is of course an MG and it is in that graveyard for old vehicles, right in the centre of Ipoh, called Kg Kuchai. This is is one of the last undeveloped areas of Ipoh and was featured in the City’s Structural Plan but was left alone during the one of the General Elections in the late 80’s or early 90’s. Politics presumably ruled as Kg Kuchai is home to many motor repair shops, coach builders, carpenters, welders and home to one of the City’s last remaining traditional Lorry Transport Companies.

Start at the house by the river (previous blog) and follow the path towards the town. You can’t miss finding this and lots of other interesting wrecks. However we have no idea of the owners of these things and can take no responsibility if your visit is wasted or has problems of any sort. Watch out for the many dogs!

Renovation or Restoration That is the Question

By |2010-02-22T08:16:19+08:00February 22nd, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , , , |

Many people do not understand the difference between renovation and restoration, but in simple terms restoration means to return something to its original state (as near as possible) while renovation allows one to change, modernise, adds bits and pieces and generally end up looking nothing like the original. A good example would be Elizabeth Taylor versus Michael Jackson. She had her face restored many times we are told, to retain her youthful beauty, whereas Michael definitely renovated his – also several times!

But what has that got to do with the house above which sits close to the Kinta River bank. Well, looking at the new roof of modern tiles, this is certainly a renovation not restoration. We do not know anything much about this house, other than what the below notices show.

If I understand this correctly the renovation was approved in 1999. Now I remember with horror the renovation to my home in Ipoh where the planned 3 months took 1 year and 5 months with the cost more than doubling, but at least it didn’t take 11 years to get as far as completing the roof. But of course it is not anyone’s fault (it never is) but I wonder what the contractor thinks?

But the point of all this is that wouldn’t it have been nice to keep this house as an original model of its particulat style? Restore rather than renovate. After all this is in a very desirable location close to the river, but away from traffic and should fetch a tidy sum when sold on the open market. It would be even more attractive with the outside features retained but modernised inside to suit our high standard of living necessary these days.

To conclude, I say to those who have an old property in need of repair, consider carefully before you touch the building, restoration will be more expensive in the short term but the long term benefits will certainly be worthwhile. Once renovated it has gone for ever.

Ipoh’s Welcoming Fountain

By |2010-02-14T07:00:29+08:00February 14th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , |

This photograph was taken by an Ipoh resident, Richard, Leong, in the early 1960’s not long after it had been erected by the Perak Turf Club as a gift to the town. At the key junction of Hugh Low Street, Gopeng Road, Tambun Road and Brewster Road it welcomed travellers to Ipoh from all directions.

I was looking at the fountain recently and I wonder why the water flow and spouts etc are so different from this picture. To me, although the structure is the same, the beauty of the water has completely disappeared when compared to the above. What could have happened? Are the pumps worn out or was there a deliberate change for one reason or another?

One more question comes from a small boy who, as they pass the fountain in their car, very often says “When will the Uncle switch on the water mummy?”. Now that is a good question as switching on and off seems quite a random affair. Does anyone know the answers to these? 

Incidentally, the Turf Club also diverted some of its funds to help beautify the city by constructing the Japanese Garden with a solar-powered clock, along Tambun Road.

January 2010

Mid-Autumn Festival in Ipoh

By |2010-01-28T06:35:57+08:00January 28th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

As you folks out there know by now, we like guessing-games. Here is a postcard from the 1980s, of a “busy street stall” in Ipoh, selling moon cakes, fruits, lanterns, etc. Now, all YOU have to do is tell us WHERE in Ipoh this street is (truth is: we aren’t sure ourselves!).

No prizes for guessing, just think of it as another way to get to know Ipoh better!

Ipoh Heritage Buildings Art Exhibition

By |2010-01-24T15:26:37+08:00January 24th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , , , |

Local artist Khor Seow Hooi is presenting an exhibition of his paintings of Old Ipoh Town in the Syuen Hotel, first floor, from today 24 January 2010 until 31 january from 10am to 7.30pm daily, including Sunday. Above is one example of his detailed work in ink and watercolour on paper.

He has captured many of our heritage buildings with his brush and as the demolition of our heritage city continues unabated these pictures will become priceless mementoes of how we used to be.

Here is a second example of the treat that is in store for you when you make your way along to the Syuen. Don’t miss it!

Almost Antique by Years – Art Deco by Style

By |2010-01-17T05:44:03+08:00January 17th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , , , |

In the entrance to the same building as the wash hand basin below hangs this electric light fitting. As electricity did not properly come to Ipoh until 1930, courtesy of the Perak River Hydro-Electric Power Company Ltd, it can only be around 75 years old – the art deco period – and that ties in very well with the style of the fitting. So we are in no doubt that the owners of this building were “early adopters” back in the 1930’s and quickly took advantage of the ability to provide proper lighting to illuminate their leisure.

Incidentally, the first electricity available in Ipoh was in 1923 by arrangement with the Pengkalan Tin Company, Batu Gajah.

Truly an Ipoh Antique from an Earlier Age

By |2010-01-14T16:14:24+08:00January 14th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

For most items the definition of a true antique is more than 100 years old, although there are special arrangements made for items like paintings.

Here we have a real antique, found still fitted in a Chinese building in Ipoh after almost 117 years. Such items were quite rare in Perak in those days, apart from perhaps in the residences of the more senior colonial administrators for such things had to be imported at not inconsiderable expense. Therefore this was no cheap shophouse knocked up quickly, but a quality building with no expense spared for the building, its furniture and fittings.

As you can see from this second picture the basin was imported from Scotland from what is probably the most famous of all sanitary ware – Shanks of Barrhead established in 1850. There are actually two in the same room underlining the fact that no expense was spared. Can anyone guess which building these are in?

A word on dialects. Chinese are famous for their dialects, but Glasgow also has its own where Barrhead is pronounced “Boorheed” and Glasgow “Glessga”. I wonder is anyone out their knows how the Glaswegians pronounce “Milngavie”?

New Coat for the Tower!

By |2010-01-12T11:25:53+08:00January 12th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

At last, the city council have decided to do something to preserve the heritage of Ipoh. Spotted this tower which has been given a new coat of paint although the colour looks odd. Well, at least we know that the tower won’t be making its way in the name of development anytime soon.

Romance Among the Ruins, Beauty ‘Midst the Bricks

By |2010-01-10T03:45:55+08:00January 10th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , , , |

What a nice surprise I had yesterday when I dropped in to Panglima Lane to see the latest state of that fast disappearing site of Ipoh’s heritage. There was a wonderful sight, a Malay couple dressed in their stunning white silk wedding attire being photographed. The scene was without doubt worthy of the above secondary title “Beauty’Midst the Bricks”.

Now I did not ask them why they had chosen that particular spot, only if I could put this photo on my blog. But thinking back why shouldn’t they pick one of Ipoh’s most historic places to record their special day? But wouldn’t it be nice if the place had been kept up as a heritage site rather than a dilapidated shadow of its past glories. Sadly of course it is rare for anything in Ipoh ito be kept up despite heritage groups, activists and the government’s Heritage Act, for nobody seems to care about anything other than making a profit. What a sad place Ipoh will be if we continue this way.

Lam Looking – Looking Good

By |2010-01-09T09:47:27+08:00January 9th, 2010|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

It was time to have another look at the restoration/renovation of Lam Looking Bazaar, so I popped down there this afternoon. What a great transformation met my eyes for as the above picture shows, despite the diversion notices and vehicles, the exterior has taken on a great new look – almost back to brand new.

But of course there is still much to do, but there is definitely work in progress as you can see.

Going inside, which is not recommended on the grounds of safety, one finds style where there was only rubble not that long ago, and what is more it is the original Iverson art deco style, but with a spanking new roof of quality tiles. The building really is going to look as good as new.

But a lot more original Iversen has also been retained and although some of the glazing will inevitably be different the great variety of light giving designs, for example on the stairs, have been kept.

and in the front of the building (photo taken from inside ground floor).

Overall the building is well on the way to be Ipoh’s shining star of heritage in our crumbling city. Well done all concerned. We look forward to the completion and opening ceremony.

How Well Do You Know Ipoh?

By |2010-01-07T13:44:19+08:00January 7th, 2010|Categories: Identify Photographs, ipoh, Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

This postcard shows an aerial view of Ipoh Old Town. We think the road meeting at the cross-junction are Jalan Panglima and Belfield Street. Among some of the famous landmarks which can be seen are the Birch Clock Tower, the Perak State Mosque, the Chung Thye Phin building, the Straits Trading Building and the Dramatist’s Hostel.

Think you can identify more? Do let us know!

December 2009

Wah! Another New Ipoh Heritage Trail Map

By |2009-12-21T10:54:58+08:00December 21st, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

Yes there really is another new heritage trail map for Ipoh, this one taking in both Old and New Town streets and 60 heritage buildings as well as giving a brief history of the city from 1873 to 1941. There is also a section on Ipoh’s famous foods, some notes on the Malay Enclave and “How to Script a Trip” a suggestion of how to enjoy two days in Ipoh. It is entitled “Ipoh: the sentimental side.”

You will recall that the last new map, featuring Old Town, which became available just a few weeks ago was sponsored by a local benefactor. This latest edition to the tourist’s armoury is produced under the umbrella of the Office of the Menteri Besar, Perak, via “The Soul of Ipoh Project” by the Perakean League and supported by The Lost World of Tambun, The Syuen Hotel, Ngan Yin (the Peanut People), Morubina (The Riverside Hotel and Project) and Foh San. Unlike the earlier version, this latest map costs RM5 and we bought it at the Canning Garden Newsagent cum bookshop. Well produced it is worth the money.

If I may I will finish with the quotation provided on the map,

“A large part of Ipoh’s story lies in its ancient buildings, walkways, alleys, road corners of the old town and new town of the city. By truly understanding the city’s heritage is one of the best ways for its survival of the most natural. May the soul of Ipoh continue to live for many generations to come.”  

I just hope they mean it!

….they say the pretty girls come from Ipoh!

By |2009-12-11T02:48:47+08:00December 11th, 2009|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, What is it?|Tags: , , |

This lovely lass is said to be seated at the balcony of an old shop house in Ipoh. We’re not sure where about this place is, so some help would be nice. According to the kind soul who gave us the picture, one of the buildings in the background is the HSBC bank – which is along Belfield Street, in Old Town.

Anyone out there with more ideas / thoughts ?

November 2009

New Heritage Map/Brochure of Ipoh Old Town

By |2009-11-18T02:39:52+08:00November 18th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , |

This is the latest map/brochure published by Myheritage Technovation Sdn Bhd in collaboration with Perak Academy and Kinta Heritage Group. Inside is a basic map of Ipoh Old Town outlining a two-hour heritage trail as well as short write-ups about the 24 heritage buildings on the trail.

Also featured is a brief history of Ipoh Town, Panglima Lane (Concubine Lane) and a guide of Ipoh’s Living Heritage – our well-known cuisines – something food lovers will enjoy!

Privately sponsored by a public-minded citizen of Ipoh, copies of this brochure can be obtained free of charge at the Perak Academy office, the Railway Station, leading hotels, and Tourist Information Centers.

And Now One for the Cinema Buffs

By |2009-11-09T15:48:58+08:00November 9th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , |

This is Ipoh’s Cathay Theatre which still stands to day, but no longer as a cinema having been overtaken by Metroplexes and the like. It was once a beautiful single-screen theatre, built in Cockman Street in late 1956 and opened on August 31, 1957 with the movie, ‘The King and I’, telling the fictitious romantic story of Anna Leonowens and the King of Siam. At that time the 3rd Class seats (front rows downstairs) cost 60cents per ticket, while 2nd Class further back cost around $1.20. 1st Class upstairs (mainly for Europeans or VIPs) cost $2.

However, this picture above is a little strange for there is still waste ground opposite the theatre, but the posters are all torn, yet it must still have been a working theatre as it is advertising Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis in the Paramount Picture “Pardners” which dates it as not long after the opening in 1957/58. Does anyone have any ideas as to when the buildings opposite were built?

Photographer Risks Life and Limb in Ipoh

By |2016-06-15T12:08:38+08:00November 6th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , , , |

Well he would be in danger if he was to try and take the same photograph today as he was standing in the centre of the Birch Bridge in Brewster Road, but of course in 1952 life was different in Ipoh, Brewster Road took two-way traffic and as you can see the road is almost empty. Compare that to today if you will.

But as you can see, despite the fact that the photograph has suffered with age, there were so many trees, big trees not some miniatures, overtrimmed, dusty and dry that we are so used to today. Also, some of today’s buildings have not yet been built and the Odeon Theatre stands out in the distance.

Incidentally, the Odeon Theatre in Ipoh seated 850 on its main floor and in the balcony and was built in the 1930’s. Triangular in shape it is adjacent to St Michael’s Cemetery and like the Rex Theatre, Ipoh, rumours of ghostly happenings, spooks and terrifying visions abound. One popular rumour was that if you ever took off your shoes inside, you would never find them when the light came on – even if nobody had sat in front, behind or next to you.

The theatre closed in 1986 and several nightclubs have tried to make a success of it but either because of bad ‘feng shui’ or the ghosts, they have all failed. Today it stands as a marker of failure and ready for demolition unless some serious entrepreneur is prepared to try and change the building’s luck.

October 2009

Croc, the Menace

By |2009-10-23T14:26:00+08:00October 23rd, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , |

This photo shows a crocodile that was shot in the Kinta River which runs through Ipoh Town. The hunter was an European (referring to the hunter’s attire ) who helped the villagers  to put an end to this crocodile’s menace. And the villagers were so excited to see the dead gigantic croc. We will be happy to hear from you, if you have information regarding this picture.

The Curse of Ipoh Town

By |2009-10-23T14:14:50+08:00October 21st, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , |

This picture shows one of the worst floods that ever happened in Ipoh. It was in 1926 and the picture was taken at the corner of Belfield Street and Station Road.

The precautions against such a disaster was taken earlier than this date. Around 1914-1921, the Ipoh Flood Mitigation Scheme had been carried out to protect the town from the then regular flooding. The aims of the scheme were to eliminate the sharp bends in the Kinta’s course through Ipoh Town; to divert waters of Sungei Choh into Sungei Pinji, instead  of flowing directly  into the Kinta above Ipoh. But the scheme wasn’t good enough to prevent the flood from continually trying to destroy Ipoh.

Thankfully further more effective measures were taken and we no longer suffer the curse of Ipoh Town.

September 2009

A Busy 1950’s Street!

By |2009-09-29T00:22:26+08:00September 28th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

This photo came to us via a soldier (who took it) and a policeman (who saved it), both of whom served here during the Malayan Emergency. The picture really needs no explanation, simply two popular modes of transport in the 1950’s. Does any one have any tales to tell us about their ride in either of these two styles of wheeled vehicle?

By the way would anyone like to tell us about this street. The buildings on the left and in the far distance provide the clues.

A House to be Proud Of

By |2018-09-07T10:18:38+08:00September 21st, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

This house in Hume Street, New Town, Ipoh is often admired by visitors and locals alike. It has appeared several times on other blogs and it would be a serious omission if we did not include it on ipohWorld’s World as it is a great example of how nice Ipoh could look if other owners cared as much as this one. Just compare this to the shophouse in Market Street on this blog and you will see what I mean.

Hume Street is an interesting place with of course the grand old Panglima Mosque at the end of the street next to the Kinta River. But add to that the other buildings, most of which are in almost original condition, even if not beautifully painted, and you have an ideal street to turn into a small heritage enclave. Wouldn’t that be nice!

The street also contains several Chinese clubs/associations. Perhaps thay could donate some paint for their buildings as the next step to preserving this short street for following generations.

Finally may I offer my congratulations and thanks to the owner of the house pictured. You are an asset to Ipoh.

The E W Birch Memorial – a Point of Confusion

By |2009-09-19T01:40:21+08:00September 19th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories, Uncategorized|Tags: , , , , |

At one time Ipoh sported two Birch Memorials, the clock tower in memory of J W W Birch and this beautiful marble fountain in Belfield Street to honour his son E W Birch. These memorials always seem to cause confusion as today only the clock tower remains and more than one tourism site has misled its readers in the past by talking about the “Birch Fountain”, over a picture of the clock tower.

So this post is intended to set the matter straight. The clock tower was erected in 1909 in memory of J W W Birch, the first British Resident of Perak under the Pangkor Treaty of 1874. He was assassinated by the Malays in 1875 and the moving force for the erection of the towere was his son E W Birch who was the 8th British Resident from 1904 to 1910. It is still with us today although as an earlier post shows the area in which it stands is not always treated well.

The photograph above shows the Birch Fountain. This all-marble fountain at the southern end of Belfield Street, was erected by the Ipoh Chinese business community, in honour of E W Birch (later, Sir Ernest Woodford Birch KCMG CMG) who (unlike his father) was a popular administrator that worked closely with the local people, particularly Yau Tet Shin, the original developer of Ipoh New Town.

Sadly, in the name of development, it was demolished by the local council and was replaced by a new fountain of a much lesser qualty and style. That is Ipoh’s loss.

Rickshaws Galore in Old Ipoh Town

By |2009-09-16T09:45:45+08:00September 4th, 2009|Categories: ipoh, Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , |

This Photograph of Station Road, Ipoh is a classic with so many rickshaws busy in the street. It is 1906 and this is the very centre of Perak’s commercial operations.

It was here that companies like Chung Thye Pin Built his status building which was first Dr Connolly’s Medical Hall, then Oldfield’s and subsequently Georgetown Dispensary,

The Straits Trading Company the very centre of the Tin trade were here as well, as were, The Chartered Bank (The Chartered Bank of India, Australia and China), The Mercantile Bank, Whiteaway and Laidlaw, the leading department store in Ipoh, Charles Grenier & Co Ltd, who originally imported British Made ‘Centaur’ pedal cycles. They also ran a small press as ‘Printers Stationers and Publishers’ with its head office here, with branches in Kuala Lumpur and Seremban, The Station Hotel, (as the railway station at that time was a single storey wood and atap building with no accommodation facilities.)

This indeed was THE place to have your head office.

Old Town Woes

By |2009-09-15T01:16:41+08:00September 3rd, 2009|Categories: ipoh, Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

What can be said about this picture other than how can an owner allow his property to deteriorate to such a level as seen here. In a world where it is said that investing in property is one of the safest things to do with your money, it would be normal to maintain that investment. However it appears that Ipoh, which has many buildings in this state, does not follow the normal pattern, preferring to spend nothing on the building in the hope that the land value will rise sufficiently to recoup those profits from investing in it.

Incidentally this picture was taken in Old Town. So much for maintaining our heritage.

August 2009

Yau Tet Shin’s New Town Under Construction 1908

By |2009-09-02T04:29:06+08:00August 30th, 2009|Categories: ipoh, Ipoh Town|Tags: |

The picture shows Ipoh New Town extending from the Kinta River in 1908. It was built on the padi fields of Datoh Panglima Kinta and as the new buildings were erected from the river towards Gopeng Road, block by block, replacing a number of extremely smelly pigsties.

The builder was Yau Tet Shin, miner, property owner and friend of E W Birch (The Resident of Perak). Wong Kap Soot, Yau Tet Shin’s long time business manager and member of the Ipoh Sanitary Board supported him in the endeavour.

The Ipoh New Town consisted of some 350 houses, with a new market, a mandarin school and theatre all included as anchor attractions. New Town mirrored the Old Town across the Kinta River, but on a well laid-out plan with fine, broad streets coupling with the main thoroughfares of Brewster Road and Hugh Low Street all the way to Gopeng Road and Tambun Road.

Panglima Street – A Trunk Road?

By |2009-08-20T13:24:15+08:00August 20th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

The picture shows the Panglima Street, Ipoh around 1904. It was named after Datoh Panglima Kinta who originally owned the land that Ipoh is built on. In  Perak, the elephants could be seen on the streets as they were used  as a main carrier for both people and goods, particularly in the tin mines. Perak was the main exporter of the elephants to other Malay states in Malaya then.

Something Different on the Heritage Trail

By |2009-08-17T09:50:32+08:00August 17th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

While many will argue that this is not heritage that depends a lot on one’s point of view. Here we have the logo brightening up a really dull steel shutter in a heritage building and demonstrating a family’s pride in what they do (books for education), their family name and the country to which they belong. Perhaps we could do with more of such pride in our community, but looking around at the city, pride in our home town and its surrounds is obviously in very short supply.

On the heritage front, this logo represents the family’s heritage – a business built up by hard work over the years, to make a future for themselves, their children and those who follow them. What will you leave behind for those that follow you? Will it be more than your forefathers left you or less?

Well of course it may be more in terms of financial wealth, property ownership and other material things we all crave for, but what about that other heritage – clean rivers, thriving wildlife, untouched hills, pollution-free air to breathe and more? There is no doubt about the answer to that question is there?

But it is not too late because if each one of you got back that pride and did your bit for the community, much (but not all) could be salvaged for future generations. Soon it will be altogether too late!

Think about it!

As Pretty a Group as You Could Find!

By |2009-08-16T07:00:40+08:00August 16th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

This little group of buildings in Belfield Street, Old Town, Ipoh is very reminiscent of the days when budding entrepreneurs bought a single plot of land and had their own ideas created into a shop-house. Individuality was the hallmark in those days not like the vast housing developments today with their rows and rows of identical little boxes.

Pity about the nasty, white, square and tasteless building to the left.

In Search of that Different Heritage Photo

By |2010-06-09T04:19:44+08:00August 13th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , , , |

Most tourists that traverse Old Town make a point of photographing the Birch Memorial Clock Tower, just as this photographer has done in the past. But searching for a different view this time he came across this little side-lane and this is what he got to take home to remind him of Ipoh.

What a pity that Ipoh, once lauded as the cleanest town in Malaya, no longer seems to maintain the buildings, pavements and lanes.

A Heritage Walk or a Heritage Stumble

By |2009-08-11T10:05:36+08:00August 11th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

Sunday is a good day to follow the published heritage walk around Old Town, Ipoh as there is not too much traffic and very few cars parked to obstruct the view of the heritage buildings. But a word of warning, do watch where you step because, as the photographs show, quite apart from having to walk in single file in some places (see “There it was GONE” below) the modern paved walkways have not survived as well as the old buildings around them .

So do be careful where you walk when you are admiring some exciting feature across the road or taking that dream photo that you will treasure for life. The alternative could be a thoroughly spoilt Sunday and the inconvenience that would cause.

What’s Cooking at Lam Looking?

By |2009-08-10T05:09:29+08:00August 9th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , , |

If you walk past the front of Lam Looking building, nothing much seems to be happening, but pause a moment and you will hear the mighty hammering of hacking tools and when they take a break – voices. Could it be that something is cooking inside the building? Now before you move on, look up and right at the top.  Something plain grey has been added. What could it be?

Well, a look at this second picture, taken inside the top floor, will tell you that they have rebuilt the top of the building with red brick – Yes, work has started and they are preserving the facia and internal walls.

And as the above pictures show, it has started with a vengeance, there is a mass of building materials on site, the floors have been stabilised with steel and wooden props and they are removing all the old rendering, but keeping the original brickwork.

But there is also a lot of new brickwork as well and much more to follow. but it looks as if Lam Looking will live to serve the people of Ipoh again in one way or another, just as its new owner said it would. That is great news.

However the job will take time and the workers say two years, it could well be more, but at least we know it will stand again a proud symbol of a grand old Chinaman, Towkay Lam Look Ing.

Old-Time Modern, A Relic of the Past

By |2009-08-07T13:15:37+08:00August 7th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

Ipoh has many of these shop-sign pillars lining the 5-foot way, more we believe than any of the other Malaysian cities, but it is very unusual to see them in any other langusge but Chinese. However this pair, relics of Ipoh’s Colonial past remain with us to remind us that at one time the two languages you were most likely to hear in the town were Chinese and English.

Does anyone know of another pair like this?

There it Was GONE! Does it Make Sense?

By |2009-08-06T23:57:39+08:00August 6th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

It is very sad to see that the recent renovation of this building has included enclosing the 5 foot walkway that was designed to provide shelter for passing pedestrians from the scorching sun and the pouring rain. Has the owner recently bought the pavement from the council or simply stolen it and if it is the latter what are our Law Enforcement Officers doing about it.

You may wonder why I am concerned, but the problem is that they have just not taken over the walkway, but more importantly forced people to walk on the narrow strip of pavement that remains, in single file, thereby putting young children at risk on this very busy road.

Would anyone like to explain to me how this can happen. Could it just be a matter of using one’s cents?

Old Town Ipoh – It’s P’s-full on Sunday

By |2009-08-10T01:26:14+08:00August 5th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

One of our supporters was having a walk around Old Town with his camera last Sunday. He stopped by the Birch Clock Tower to admire the beautiful paintwork on the OCBC building, rejoicing in the fact that this grand old building, built by the Straits Trading Company in 1906/1907 is still with us.

But then a sole pedestrian appeared and it is quite clear that he did not care too much for OCBC’s efforts in maintaining the building!

As discussions about the rights and wrongs of learning English rage unabated, perhaps it is time to learn a useful phrase “to mind your P’s and Q,s” which means to behave oneself in public. Maybe this man should learn to mind his P’s.

Feast Your Eyes For Soon the Bridge Dies.

By |2009-08-02T10:33:34+08:00August 2nd, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town, Memories|Tags: , , , |

This postcard dates from around 1935 and shows the Hugh Low Bridge as most people still call it today. At one time when Hugh Low, as a British Colonial, was out of fashion it was known as the Kinta Bridge, but the name never really caught on. Anyway, those who cross the bridge regularly will know that the council have now erected a temporary Bailey Bridge alongside it in preparation to rebuild a “better looking” bridge at a cost of, we believe RM50 million of taxpayers money. I do hope that figure is wrong because as far as we know the existing bridge is still sound and has years of life left in it.

Historically, the Hugh Low Bridge was first completed as a wooden bridge in 1890 and opened for wheeled traffic to Gopeng. The wooden bridge was replaced with an iron bridge when Yau Tet Shin’s New Town was built in 1907. The iron bridge was then widened in 1930 to take the ever increasing traffic, mostly non motorised.

Now the heritage buff will mourn the loss of this historic bridge, but should we all not be mourning the decision to spend so much in these difficult times. Let us hope that the rumour is wrong and the new bridge will cost a fraction of the figure being bandied about.

But anyway, feast your eyes on this old picture which shows the Bridge and God of Prosperity Temple and the People’s Park as it used to be. Memories are made of this!

July 2009

An Important Street in Ipoh in 1950

By |2009-07-22T00:35:25+08:00July 21st, 2009|Categories: Identify Photographs, Ipoh Town, Museums, What is it?|Tags: , |

This photograph came with the caption “An important street in Ipoh in 1950”.

However we cannot name it nor decide why it is said to be important. Can you?

Don’t be shy just drop us a line by clicking om “Leave a comment” under these words. We guarantee not to use your email for any purpose. We simply ask for it to try and cut down on all the automatic spam we receive.

1960’s Aerial View of Old Town, A Green and Pleasant Place

By |2009-07-22T04:51:15+08:00July 17th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

This divided back, unused, card from Airfoto is centred on the Perak State Mosque with the Railway Station clearly visible between it and the limestone hills which form the backdrop against a brilliant blue sky.

The amazing thing about this picture is just what a beautiful and green city Ipoh was in the 1960’s. In every direction from the mosque there can be seen grassy spaces and an abundance of trees. Take for example the Birch Memorial Clock tower just to the right of the mosque. It stands surrounded by nature’s greenery, open to view and a magnificent memorial to the first British Resident of Perak who was murdered by the Malays. Whatever your politics or your opinion of J W W Birch there is no doubt that this environment was far superior to today’s, hemmed in as the clock tower is by a scruffy food centre that replaced the trees (behind which the old Post Office nestled) and surrounded by hard landscaping and litter rather than well tended grass.

But not only the clock tower’s environment has worsened but a comparison against today’s Ipoh also demonstrates that there has been a general decline in the environment across the City. How on earth did we, the citizens of Ipoh allow this?

How Others See Us – Ipoh as Described By Lonely Planet 17 February 2009

By |2009-07-14T13:38:33+08:00July 14th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , |

How Others See Us. Below is a true copy of Lonely Planet’s latest report on Ipoh.

 Check it out if you don’t believe me. We simply added the red highlighting.

For the visitor, Ipoh is mainly a transit town, a place where you change buses if you’re heading for Pulau Pangkor or the Cameron Highlands. However, the grand colonial architecture of the ‘Old Town’ west of the Sungai Kinta (Kinta River) is well worth exploring and gives a good impression of just how wealthy and important this city once was.

At the end of the 19th century, the city expanded east over the river into the ‘New Town’, which, with its chaotic traffic and mix of crumbling Chinese shophouses and ugly modern blocks, holds less appeal. This is a generally dingy part of town, with a notorious prostitution problem and no real attractions. However, for those who do decide to stay longer, Ipoh makes the perfect base for discovering outlying sights such as the Buddhist cave temples, the royal town of Kuala Kangsar and Kellie’s Castle.

Last updated: 17-Feb-2009

Does that make you feel proud of your hometown?

Perhaps the Datuk Bandar would like to comment!

Panglima Lane, Ipoh, 1947

By |2009-07-13T13:31:13+08:00July 13th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

Although so far nobody has commented on our earlier blog about the disgraceful state of Panglima Lane today, I thought that you might like to see what it should look like.

This picture although of poor quality shows just how well looked after, clean and tidy the Lane used to be. Obviously the owners had pride in their possessions back then, which it seems they do not have now. Why is that?

Could it be that all they care about is increasing their bank balance at the expense of their environment? I do hope not for that to me sounds the death knell for us all if all we care about money. If not, then does anyone have another answer to why our city is continuing to deteriorate?

LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF IPOH

By |2009-07-12T10:02:33+08:00July 12th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , |

 The local government system was introduced into Malaya before the end of the 19th century, after the system showed a tremendous development in United Kingdom. In United Kingdom, the Elizabethan Poor Law of 1601 become the initial step towards the local government establistment. This law required the local community to look into the problems of protection, health, drainage and other important issues that were needed to form a good township. And it was the first move by a central government to grant delegated authority to a local body.

The local government at Ipoh was established in March 1893, when the Ipoh Sanitary Board was formed. The Ipoh Sanitary Board was set up by Frank Swettenham, the British Resident during his visit to the district at the beginning of the year. At this time, the population in Ipoh reached up to 11,000 as reported by Leech, the District Magistrate. The Ipoh Sanitary Board, a council, comprising officials and unofficials, was responsible for cleanliness and hygiene of the town. It was the first of its kind in Kinta Valley, although there was a similar board in Taiping earlier. The success of the Ipoh Sanitary Board led to the formation of similar bodies in Gopeng and Batu Gajah in 1894. From 1893-1897, it covered a huge area of Lahat, Menglembu and Ipoh itself. In 1897, it was replaced by the Kinta Sanitary Board. The biggest achievement by the board, was the installation of a gigantic septic tank in 1905, which was the first of its kind in Malaya. Besides that, the board also succeeded in taking effective measures to secure proper ventilation of houses, adequate backlanes spaces between buildings, and the removal of unsafe and unhealthy dwellings throughout the Kinta District.

However, in 1905, the Board was split up into two; Kinta Sanitary Board North in Ipoh and Kinta Sanitary Board South in Batu Gajah. It happened when Kinta Sanitary Board which was responsible for all the townships in Kinta District didn’t show much of a statisfactory improvement after its formation. But after 10 years, the both bodies were joined back together, due to economic turmoil, and it lasted till 1941. On 1st January 1956, Ipoh became a financially autonomous local authority, which means that the local authority can no longer expect any financial assistance from the state government, with a few exception.

As Ipoh becoming a big town, the degree of elected representation increased. In 1961, there were 18 elected councillors, compared to only 11 representatives in 1894. From the day of formation till 1956, the chairman’s post was given only to British origin senior staff. But in 1957, for the first time ever in Ipoh local government history, a Malay man, Enche Abdullah B. Udi elected as the Chairman of Ipoh Town Council (as it was called then). On 31st May 1962, Ipoh became a municipality, a title and recognition given by His Highness, the Sultan of Perak. ‘Till now, the Municipality of Ipoh is still bringing in various developments to Ipoh, making her one of the well developed towns in the country.

Lorong Panglima, On the Ipoh Heritage Trail!

By |2009-07-06T06:20:07+08:00July 6th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , , |

In December last year there was a revelation by the Datuk Bandar, Ipoh, that the legendary tunnel under the Ipoh Town Hall, which is said to join the Railway Station to the High Court and the Police Station (the latter being most unlikely) was to be investigated. Indeed, not only investigated, but opened to the public as part of a historical trail that would take-in parts of Old Town as well, including Lorong Panglima (aka Second Concubine Lane). Not surprisingly nothing has been heard since, but maybe the new Firefly flight schedule from Singapore that starts on 12 July will bring in some tourists and spur the City and State Governments to actually follow this up and smarten up our city for it certainly needs some smartening up!

A case in point is the above photograph of Panglima Lane taken just one week ago. Surely we are not going to allow our tourists to see what states of delapidation our heritage sites have fallen into!

Or are we?

 

An Aerial View of Chamberlain Road, Ipoh c1975

By |2009-07-28T06:13:40+08:00July 5th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , |

We are grateful to Ramesh who has lent us this photograph so that we may share it with you.

The photograph shows Chamberlain Road, Ipoh with Jalan Bendahara at the bottom left, joining Chamberlain at the roundabout. Apart from the Sri Maju Bus Company replacing the Palm Trees, bottom left, with their vehicles in 1978 not too much else has changed. The Majestic Cinema is hidden among the trees on the right.

On the reverse of the card is a message in traditional Chinese characters which reads:

“Ipoh Town. Given to my friend Siong Ling wishing her Happy Living from Pei Yuan.”

Chamberlain Road (As described by S Durai Raja Singam in 1939)
(From Junction of Jalan Masjid and Anderson Road to Chung Thye Pin Road).

This road made in 1907/08; is named after the late Right Hon Joseph Chamberlain M P, father of the present Prime Minister of England, Mr Neville Chamberlain. A Radical politician, Mayor of Birmingham (1873-1876) Secretary of State for Colonies in the Coalition Government. In 1906, he withdrew from public life on account of ill health. First Chancellor of Birmingham University. He died on July 2nd 1914.

Sir Frank Swettenham in his “British Malaya” says “I am responsible for the Malay States lines, with the exception of the eight miles branch in Larut, from Taiping to Port Weld, and the twenty-four miles branch in Sungei Ujong, from Seremban to Port Dickson (which was built by and belongs to a private Company) and I may recall the fact that when I first recommended the construction of the Province Wellesley line, it was disapproved. But when I again repeated all the arguments in favour of the work and pressed to be allowed to undertake it, Mr Chamberlain, then Secretary of State for Colonies, gave his sanction on the ground that, if the value of a great work could be satisfactorily demonstrated, the sooner it was taken in hand the better. Mr Chamberlain is one of the few public men who realize this principle.

Nothing is as common as to express great interest in a new proposal, great sympathy and even high approval: but when it involves the expenditure of money, the running of risk, the acceptance of responsibility, enthusiasm for the scheme is not only tempered, but often entirely counteracted, by the decision to put off its accomplishment to the Greek Kalends.” Before the departure of Sir Cecil C Smith, Sir Frank Sweetenham had drawn up a scheme for the Federation of the Malay States and submitted it to him. This proposal was forwarded to the Secretary of State and Sir Charles Mitchell recommended that is the Malay rulers favoured the proposal, the Federation should be adopted. Mr Chamberlain, the Secretary of State for the Colonies approved of this.

Sir Frank visited the several States explained the scheme very fully to the Malay Rulers and British Residents and secured the written consent of the Rulers. That the Institute for Medical Research owes its being to Mr Joseph Chamberlain, was stated by Dr A Neave Kingsbury, Director of the Institute, at the opening of the sixth international course in malariology.

Mr Chamberlain, as Secretary of State for the Colonies, was instrumental in sending to Kuala Lumpur a research worker to investigate the cause of beri-beri, which was then a most serious disease among the Chinese, said Dr Kingsbury. “Our foundation,” he continued, “antidates all other institutes in British Colonies and Protectorates. Today, the senior staff numbers no less than 16, and we like to think that we have not altogether lost our original start.”

June 2009

The Beef Noodle Family of Ipoh

By |2011-08-11T12:31:49+08:00June 22nd, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town, People|Tags: , , , , , |

The photographs, taken by a Japanese tourist, show Ipoh’s famous Beef Noodle Stall in operation in Theatre Street in 1968 where it served the people of Ipoh for more than 50 years, until they were forced by legislation to move to a central hawkers area, known locally as Rainbow City. They have been at this second site for more than 20 years. Consequently, the stall has been in operation by the same family in Ipoh for more than 70 years.

The business was founded by Lee Cheong who was born in Phunyu, Guandong in 1902 and first came to Malaya in 1916 to help his father, already in Malaya, to sell rice on their stall in Kuala Lumpur. After some time he returned to China, but times were very tough there and so in 1922 he returned to Malaya and found employment as a supervisor (kepala) in the tin mine of Cheong Yook Chong near Kuala Lumpur. However by the mid 1930s the world depression had taken its toll on tin mining and many unemployed coolies had to return to China to take up hawking or begging in order to survive.

Lee Cheong decided that a move to Ipoh and the new profession of a beef noodle hawker would be the best thing for him, which as it turned out was absolutely correct as he successfully created a long term family business and had eight children, all born in Ipoh.

The photograph on the left shows eldest daughter Yea Sin busily preparing the succulent beef that is the hallmark of their success, together with the home produced noodles and chili sauce made fresh daily. The second photograph shows father Lee Cheong, the founder, measuring out a good handful of noodles and in the background younger daughter, Li Lin, polishing a traditional Cockerel bowl (like those on the counter and still in use today) and the showcase full of freshly made noodles. Both daughters continue to work at their stall, now in 2009, on a regular basis.

There are more photographs and information about this family on our database archive.

As there are some additional, recent comments about this blog I decided to upload another photo.

 Here we have the stall in 2007 with the normal team that provide us with their traditional beef noodles. Note the cockerel bowls on the counter, the same ones as used in Theatre Street more than 40 years ago. 
 

 

 

Chinese Press Reports Launch of ipohWorld’s New Database Archive

By |2009-06-19T05:42:08+08:00June 19th, 2009|Categories: About Us, Ipoh Town, Tenby Schools|Tags: , , , |

On 14 June 2009 both the China Press and Oriental Daily kindly featured the launch of ipohWorld’s new database archive and blog. The photographs show guests viewing the photographic exhibition, “Snapshots of the Emergency” that accompanied the launch. Scans of the articles are shown above and for the convenience of the all, we enclose our Press Release below: 

Ipohworld, an education-based organization now integrated into the facilities of Tenby Schools Ipoh, today launched an internet-based history archive in conjunction with this year’s Remembrance Day ceremony held to honour the thousands of servicemen and civilians killed during the Malaysian Emergency (1948-1960).

 

This occasion was chosen as several of the veterans from the days of the Emergency had donated photographs unavailable elsewhere, to the history archive.

 

To mark the occasion, Ipohworld also mounted a photographic exhibition at the Royal Ipoh Club, simply called “Snapshots of the Emergency” and featuring a number of original photographs donated by the veterans who regularly attend the annual ceremony.

 

Orang Kaya-Kaya Panglima Kinta Seri Amar di-Raja Dato’ Seri Dr Abdullah Fadzil Che Wan, who is also the Chairman of Ipohworld, was present to launch the exhibition.

 

Ipohworld was established in 2004 to promote awareness and appreciation of Perak, the Silver State of Malaysia and its unique, diverse and rich heritage, with particular focus on Ipoh and the Kinta Valley. In 2006 it ran the extraordinarily successful exhibition “The Story of Ipoh: From Feet to Flight”, in cooperation with Darul Ridzuan Museum. Since then, while trying to get both the Public and Private sectors to support Ipohworld’s objective to provide Ipoh with a permanent, lively and interesting heritage gallery, to enhance education and tourism, the organisation continues to work towards that target.

 

Consequently, undeterred by the lack of financial support for a gallery, the project has continued to gather a broad variety of local items and information from worldwide sources. As the collection grew, disciplined recording, preservation and control became essential. Thus, an information archive in the form of a unique digital image database, supported by original research, and available information from acknowledged and credible sources, was born.

 

To date Ipohworld has documented well over 3000 items in the archive covering a wide range of subjects across the broad spectrum of heritage and social history, based on photographs, documents, interviews, artifacts, books and videos. More items will be added regularly.

 

Through this database it is hoped to assist individuals and groups, particularly students, with their research, while at the same time promoting the Kinta Valley, once vaunted the richest tin mining area in the world.

 

In line with present communication trends, Ipohworld, under the guidance of its Project Manager, Commandor RN (RTD) Ian Anderson, has created a weblog to publish stories, personal experiences and to highlight heritage issues as they occur around our valley. Through the weblog, they hope to facilitate discussion between their readers and encourage those with an interest in Perak to share their stories and pictures with others. They also welcome visitors to post original contributions on any aspect of heritage or social history relevant to our area to enrich the content of the blog.

 

In 2006, the Ipohworld project was integrated into the facilities of Tenby Schools Ipoh, which aligned neatly with the schools’ ongoing commitment to encourage interest in heritage and social history among their students while maintaining the project‘s objective to promote Kinta Valley’s heritage.  Since then, all the items displayed in its maiden exhibition “From Feet to Flight” as well as new additions, have have found their “home” at Tenby Schools Ipoh, whilst continuing to wait for a permanent home. 

 

Madam Lee Yam Sei, COO of Tenby Schools Ipoh, explained that the students’ first involvement with Ipohworld’s objectives was when they took on a project to document their own families’ transport history in 2006, taking the lead from the first exhibition.

 

“Since then several of the schools’ students have collaborated with Ipohworld on oral history interviews of senior members of the community, assisted with hosting exhibitions and taken part in photographic, art and model building competitions with heritage as the theme.

 

“Besides projects of this nature, the schools also take pride in organising trips to heritage exhibitions and sites to further expose their students to the wealth of local history that is available”, she said.

 

“These include such diverse subjects as tin mining, a battle site, prehistoric rock paintings, a well-known local folly, mangrove swamps and charcoal burning.

 

“We are proud that our students have taken a keener interest in Perak’s history and developed an appreciation for its rich cultural heritage through these activities, as a result of the efforts of Ipohworld”, Madam Lee added.

 

Over the last 5 years Ipohworld has been well supported with donated material from home and overseas, but if they are to build a truly comprehensive archive they need more help. If anyone has any old photographs, documents, artifacts or stories from Ipoh or the Kinta Valley area they would be delighted to hear from them.

 

Contact may be made via info@ipohworld.org in the first instance so that appropriate arrangements may be made. Anything borrowed will be returned promptly as existing contributors will confirm.

 

Ipohworld’s impressive history archives, including the most recent collection of photo exhibition “Snapshots of the Emergency”, are available for public viewing via http://www.ipohworld.org

 

An E-mail from A Reader

By |2009-06-17T06:02:56+08:00June 17th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , , |

Upgrade and renovation of fine building need to be tastefully done (architecturally) example the Ipoh High Court, Extension to St Michael school.

Tent structure extension to the Ipoh railway station is foreign to the resident’s architecture is to be avoided.

Hawkers in Malaysia must stop discharging waste into public drains, rivers for it promotes disease and vermins. They need to stationed in premises that discharge waste into manholes and sewerage treatment.

A recycling organisation needs to be set up to reduce waste and allow for recycle.

Thank you

Lim Peng Keang
Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia

April 2009

A Visit to an Ipoh Tourist Spot!

By |2009-09-19T01:48:19+08:00April 6th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , , |

A friend visited the Birch Memorial Clock Tower and brought us back these pictures.

The top two are at the top of the steps as you approach the tower from the lower road. Rotting food and goodness knows what else to navigate past as you visit Ipoh’s heritage. Bottom left is the base of the tower, complete with broken bed and water bottle and the bottom right is just across the road from the mosque. What a dreadful sight for our Muslim friends as they leave their place of prayer.

Now you may not like the reason that the tower was put there in the first place – many don’t. But the fact is that the structure is 100 years old this year and represents a key bit of history for this country and its people. Nobody denies that Birch was not a good administrator, nor that he treated the Malays badly, but as they say, that is history and whatever else, it is history like this that brings in tourist dollars.

Surely the place deserves to be treated better than this!

The FMS Bar and Restaurant – Visible Progress

By |2009-04-07T08:50:02+08:00April 6th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , |

Most people know about FMS, the oldest bar in Malaysia which is currently under renovation. Indeed many people fear that it will never open again. However it certainly looks hopeful.

Taking the photographs from the top it appears that nothing is happening, but go round the back and you will see an amazing transformation (centre pic). The upstairs building work is virtually complete. Then, take a look at the bottom pic – the inside of the downstairs bar. Completely gutted, the new concrete floor upstairs is finished and restoration of downstairs will start soon.

The owner says he plans to reopen early 2010 and that the bar will be in traditional style reflecting its history. And the really good news is that he does not plan to change the front of the building at all, just restore

We look forward to that!

The Old Post Office, Ipoh – Restoration Seems to Have Started

By |2009-04-05T11:27:41+08:00April 5th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , , , |

Known by Perakians young and old as The Old Post Office, and despite being connected to the Town Hall the building has been empty since the early 1990s and been derelict for years. As can be seen from the top picture the Town Hall has been repainted and shows signs of being cared for but it has been a different story for the Post Office which has simply been an eyesore. However, judging by all the scaffolding the renovation by the Federal Government is underway. That is good news for Ipoh.

Once renovated it is being suggested that it will become an art gallery featuring Raja Muda’s collection of paintings. Whether this is true is not known, but with the amount of money the renovation will cost they must have some plans for it. 

The Ipoh Town Hall building is a historic structure consisting of interesting Moorish Architecture and designs. It was completed in 1916 with the east end used as the Post and Telegraphs Office from 1928. This was the second building to be used for this role in Ipoh. Subsequently when new premises were built for the Post Office, the building was used by other government offices including the Tourism Department and as the Bumiputra Administrative Centre.

The lower picture shows a view from the opposite direction and includes the J W W Birch Memorial Clock Tower partly masked by the Medan Selera (Food Court). The latter is in some serious need of renovation or even a total rebuild as it will negate much of the beauty of the renovated Post office cum Art gallery. With the food court sorted out, the area tidied up and all the rubbish removed, with the advantage of the historic clock tower, this could become a real tourist area.

Unveiled in 1909, the Birch Memorial, can be described as a square decorated tower with a portrait bust and four panels illustrative of the growth of civilisation. The tower was erected on the table-land of Ipoh Old Town at the cost of about $25,000. A dedication to J W W Birch, the first British Resident of Perak, who was assassinated at Pasir Salak in 1875, could be found beneath the site of a bronze bust of Birch in the north-facing niche, but the bust has since disappeared.

Lam Looking Bazaar Restoration Seems to Have STOPPED!

By |2009-06-20T04:49:57+08:00April 5th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , , , , , |

Lam Looking building in Laxamana Road, Ipoh was destroyed by fire. Heritage buffs rejoiced when they heard that the bazaar had a new owner who was to restore it. Sure enough it was fenced and the rubbish cleared, but since then nothing has happened. Does anyone know when and what is happening next?

The Top pic is the side and front and the bottom the rear view including the spiral staircase.

For those who don’t know the history, It was built as ‘A stylish Art Deco building from 1931, with sweeping horizontal lines, featuring Early Modernist stair-wells.

The Celestial Cabaret and hotel upstairs was a favourite haunt of European expatriates. During the war, Japanese military officers patronised the cabaret which was also a Japanese casino (gambling farm) during the Occupation and a grenade target during the Emergency.

However, the cabaret eventually lost its clientele and was transformed into the Movieland Theatre. This was a cinema that specialised in Cantonese Opera movies that were very popular with the older members of Ipoh’s Chinese residents. But again, all good things come to an end and the theatre was replaced by the Perak Emporium.

As the Perak Emporium it was a major shopping centre from when it opened in the late 1960’s until it closed in the late 1980’s. It also had retail shops at street level, with smaller lots fronting an oval courtyard. Lot No. 8 was journalist Ahmad Noor Abdul Shukor’s “Blue Room”. Fook Seng, at Lot No. 6 retailed gramophones, keronchong songs and Arabic music.

However, the business went into decline around the time that the new store “Super Kinta” opened just along the road and that was the death knell of this grand old building which deteriorated thereafter.

Lam Look Ing, a Nam Wei Cantonese, was born in Penang in 1864. Trained as a naval officer in Foochou, he established himself as a tin-miner in Kampar and a large property owner in Ipoh.’

A Mysterious Ipoh Fire?

By |2009-04-05T11:28:48+08:00April 5th, 2009|Categories: Ipoh Town|Tags: , , , , |

From time to time (but with monotonous regularity) Ipoh suffers a mysterious fire in one or other of the old buildings in Old or New Town. This one in Brewster Road happened on the eve of Chinese New Year 2009. The building had been out of use for years. How did the fire start we wonder?

Does anyone know who owns this building as there could be someone we know interested to buy and restore it?

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