February 2024
January 2024
Back to School!
We thank Prof Dr Lee Kok Onn for sharing this with us. Anyone remember this textbook?
November 2023
Deepavali Greetings!
Happy Deepavali!
from all of us at:
Dirgahayu Tuanku
On the occasion of the birthday of His Majesty Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah Al-Maghfur-Lah.
Dirgahayu Tuanku!
October 2023
Tong Bee Cloth Merchant
We thank Wai Ming Kuah for this picture. Does anyone remember this Grand Cheap Sale?
September 2023
When was the last time…
…you saw/used an iMac? Better yet, do you remember the iMac G3? Let’s refresh your memory with this picture (below).
August 2023
Selamat Hari Merdeka Ke-66
We’re 66! Can you believe it? Happy Independence Day!
Make a guess…
Looks familiar? Some of you may already know where this place is. We’d love to hear your comments. 🙂
SMI Military Band
The St Michael’s Institution military band, somewhere in the late 1960s…
I wanted to be a drummer boy, but they gave my a euphonium, so I played that instead.
We thank Andrew YC Loh for the above picture and caption.
A Parade in Ipoh
Here’s another two pictures from Mun Chor Seng. Does anyone recall this float parade? Or, perhaps you remember these unique floats?
Get that Hollywood look!
We thank Wei Ning Kuah for sharing this picture with us. We were told that this shop was founded in 1939, and that the photo dates back to the early days before the Japanese Occupation. It is said that the original premise was along Brewster Road.
Wedding Photo Ideas?
We have here Chen Seong Yin and his wife to be, Briggita, posing with a trishaw – as part of their wedding photo shoot. This was taken in August 1996 at the Darling Honemoon Villa in Ipoh Garden.
Did you have a unique location for your wedding photo shoot?
July 2023
Doug’s new home…
…at least that’s what the caption said.
Doug’s new home, Govt Quarters off Gopeng Road, Ipoh, Perak, FMS
I wonder if Doug liked his new home….maybe our donor (Chee Ong Ngai) could tell us 🙂
June 2023
Wesak Day Parade, Ipoh
We thank Mun Chor Seng for this photo. Here we have Ipoh’s black-and-white Amahs walking in a Wesak Day Parade. This is of course Brewster Road…and one of the shop houses in the background is none other than Lean Kap Seng’s photographic studio (which many of you may know as Scoop photo studio).
Did you know?
Here’s some trivia for you, taken from The Yamato News. This newspaper dates back to 13th February 2602 (which actually means 13th February 1942).
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this with us.
If you’re wondering about the strange date (2602), then click here for the explanation.
“white area” ?
This photo was not taken in Ipoh, but it is rather interesting. I’d like to draw your attention to the sign, which simply reads as: “You are now entering Malacca Settlement White Area”.
Did we have “white areas” in Ipoh too at some point?
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this photo with us.
Advertisement – Jamnadas
Here’s another excerpt from The Yamato Times. This one is an advertisement by P. S. Jamnadas & Co.
Daulat Tuanku!
In conjunction with the birthday of His Majesty Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah, the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia.
Daulat Tuanku!
May 2023
Out in the town…
No prizes for guessing where this was taken. However, we do thank our donor – who prefers to be called “Canning Garden” – for sharing this picture with us.
Chingay Procession
The activity appears to be centred around the England Dobi Shop where the procession may well have stopped to give a demonstration, and there are large numbers of spectators in attendance. Numerous vehicles in the street are probably being delayed by the festivities and have formed a traffic jam.
I wonder which part of town this was….
Coffee Shop Licence, from 1963
This is a licence from the Municipality of Ipoh to Hung Chin Ling, i.c. PK.028579 of K-2, Kepayang, Fair Park, Ipoh who has a coffee shop. The license, of course, was issued in accordance to the Sales of Food and Drugs Ordinance 1952. There were also the following conditions, which had to be adhered to:
- This bill should be presented intact for payment to the Municipal Cashier at the Municipal Office between the hours of 8.30a.m and 3p.m on any working day except Saturday when the hours are from 8.30a.m to 11.30a.m
- Cheques are to be crossed and made payable to the Municipality of Ipoh
- All queries should be addressed to the Municipal Treasurer, Municipality of Ipoh,
P. O. Box 1009, Ipoh - No pin tables are allowed on the licensed premises and failure to observe this condition may entail cancellation of licence by the Council.
I wonder if Hung’s coffee shop is still in business…
…busy street…
Here’s a relatively easy one. I’m sure you can guess where this is 🙂
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this photo.
Another unique road sign
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this one.
Pardon me if I’m wrong…but are those Japanese characters, written above the English words? If so, this picture could have been taken during the Second World War (or a little after).
April 2023
A rare find…
Here’s a rare find from Chee Ong Ngai. This is the Posts & Telegraphs Office in Tanjong Rambutan. (wonder what’s become of this building…)
That Gazebo…
Yes, you read the words right. This gazebo was once part of the Ipoh Club. [see here for a different angle of the Club, with the gazebo on the right]
We thank Edwin Seibel for sharing this picture with us.
Hello? Is it me you’re looking for?
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this photograph with us. He also gave us the names of the two pretty ladies in the foreground:
“1 November 1953 : The attractive Naseh sisters, Dewi (nearest camera) and Jamilah, “Hello Girls” in the Ipoh telephone exchange, find little time for chit-chat in their busy six-hour day shifts.”
Army Kinema Corporation?
This booklet published for the use of military personnel only in May 1967 contains movies that will be screened in numerous military cinemas for example The Leowen in Terendak Camp, New Globe, and Globe. This booklet also has all the information on the day and the time of the movie and the British Forces Broadcasting Service’s English programmes for April. It also contains advertisements for Benson & Hedges cigarettes and Asahi Pentax cameras.
Another ACS production…
Here’s another scene from an ACS play. This one is from Carousel, back in 1977. The pretty girl striking a ballerina pose is none other than Michelle Yeoh!
We thank Ong Su-Ming for sharing this photo with us.
March 2023
…that famous, tragic, romance…
Some of you may have already guessed this play, merely by the “balcony scene”. 🙂
This play was organised by none other than the ACS Music and Drama Society, back in 1976. Just to refresh your memories (if you’ve watched it), the leading roles were played by Tan Seow Heng (Juliet) and Emmet O’Sullivan (Romeo).
We thank Ong Su-Ming for sharing this photograph with us.
Nice day for a swim!
Believe it or not, these children are having a blast by the Kinta River! Yes, there was a time you could swim at this river….
“full house”
This picture was taken from the ACS centenary magazine, probably before the start of the school play. We thank our donor Ong Su-Ming.
Market Street, 1919
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture, which is part of a postcard. Here we have Market Street, from Court House Road. You can also see FMS Hotel.
Incidentally, we have this postcard in our collection (along with a little history to it).
Kamta
Remember these tickets? Yes? No? Perhaps you might remember the bus (see below)
If I’m not mistaken, the number plate reads as AB 270….
“caught in the act”
We thank our donor Ong Su-Ming for this picture, which was taken from the 100th Voyage 1895-1995 (an ACS, Ipoh magazine).
Do you remember this play, back in 1952? Or, perhaps you caught the later adaptation in 1962?
February 2023
….more advertisements…
Here’s another nostalgic photo from Chee Ong Ngai.
Have you had a Cadbury lately? 🙂
“care for a drink?”
Have you been to the Sinhalese Bar in Ipoh? We’d love to hear your thoughts – especially if you know something about its history 🙂
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture.
Off to the movies!
Some of you may already recognise this at the Rex Cinema, in Kampar. We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this picture with us.
A Wrestling Match?
Here’s another rare find from Chee Ong Ngai. This is said to be Sikhs (from the Perak Armed Police) engaged in a game of wrestling.
“Tan Ngan Lo”
According to the donor of this picture (Chee Ong Ngai), this was taken at Indera Mulia Stadium in Ipoh…back in 1985.
Anyone here remember this promotional booth?
Double the celebration!
picture source: Star Online
Whether you’re celebrating the 15th Day of the
Lunar New Year (Chap Goh Mei)….
picture source: Star Online
or Thaipusam, we wish you a joyous celebration.
And remember to always stay safe!
January 2023
Back to School!
Do you remember this school bus?
Somewhere in Ipoh
Here’s another gem from our donor Harvant Lisa Harper. Do you recognise the buildings in the background?
…bet your bottom dollar…
No, we’re not encouraging gambling. Rather, some of you may find this (picture above) a familiar sight during Chinese New Year.
Let’s hear from our mahjong experts out there!
Hopping into the new year!
May your wishes come true,
and your good fortune multiply like rabbits!
from all of us at:
New Year, New Clothes?
They may be posing at a park, but I’m sure these ladies are all dressed up for a special occasion 🙂
We thank Shuen Huey Foo for sharing this picture with us.
“Austin and Me”
No, that’s not me. Rather another lad, who was obviously proud of his family car (I would presume).
‘drumming in the new year’
Nothing like a good ‘ol Lion Dance Troupe to welcome Chinese New Year. Speaking of which, has anyone here been part of a troupe at some point in your youth? (maybe you were ‘part’ of the ‘lion’ too?)
This guy certainly wanted to join in the fun! Read more here.
picture source: NST online
See How It’s Done
This is how one would use a medium pole weighing scale. We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture.
December 2022
It’s 2023!
Happy New Year!
Here’s to feeling thankful for the year behind
and enthusiastic for the year ahead.
Have you seen Santa?
Some say he rode on a sleigh, pulled by reindeer.
Then, there were sightings of him ‘jumping off a plane with a parachute‘. (see below)
The REME men, however, said he ‘travelled by train‘.
How did Santa deliver YOUR presents?
…memory of an old Christmas Card…
When was the last time YOU received a Christmas (or any other greeting) card?
Home for the holidays
Here’s a shout out to those travelling home for the holidays. Have a safe journey and happy holidays!
We thank our donor Chee Ong Ngai for this picture. Yes, this was part of the FMS Railway…just after the Bukit Gantung Station.
‘Scenes from a Nursery’
We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this with us. Looks like it was part of a magazine or booklet. Do you recognise it?
‘Mysterious’ mansion
We thank Harvant Lisa Harper for sharing this picture with us. She also had this to say:
This is the army regimen house by the Ipoh Specialist Center. It was at one time occupied by the British. My dad was the guard there. Then the Japanese took over. Before they got there, he told me that he destroyed all the crystals that the British left behind so the Japanese could not hear what the British were talking about and also hid a pistol that was left behind.
November 2022
Charity Show
Back in 1954, there was a charity show at the Anglo-Chinese Girls’ School. It was for a good cause – to aid the educational work among the Dayaks in Borneo.
Did you catch the recital and one-act play?
Oath of Secrecy
With the Malaysian General Elections just around the corner, here’s another interesting find (from the family of the late Ali Pitchay): an Oath of Secrecy, taken by election candidates!
Wedding Memories
Do you recognise the background? If you do, you would know WHERE this wedding reception took place 🙂
We thank Nancy Ong for sharing this picture with us.
…still in the Elections Mood…
Do you remember that time when UMNO and MCA contemplated a “grand alliance”, to contest in the Town Council Elections in Perak? Well, this article might refresh your memory…
October 2022
Going to the Polls
For those of you who haven’t been following the news lately, Malaysia will be going to the polls on the 19th of November 2022.
That being said, here’s a sample of a Pre Independence Election poster!
We thank the family of the late Mohd Ali bin Pitchay, for sharing this rare find with us.
Happy Festival of Lights!
May the light of the lamp give a new light to your life every moment.
May this holy festival of lights bring happiness, peace and prosperity in your life.
from all of us at:
…no easy feat…
No, this isn’t part of a circus troupe. Neither is this a Chinese New Year celebration (yes, I know some of you spotted the ‘lion’ in the background).
This is actually part of the Nine Emperor Gods Festival parade. We thank our donor – Ann Kesselring Hamon – for sharing this with us.
Here’s another picture from that parade.
Then and Now – Rose Brand Flour
On the left is a flour bag from the 1970s. On the right is the same Rose Brand Flour, but in a plastic package.
Other than the slight change in the logo, what else do you notice?
Salam Maulidur Rasul
from all of us at:
An Interesting School Trip
Is it a bird…is it a plane…..? No, they are most likely staring at the Birch Clock Tower.
The gentleman (holding some papers) is none other than Rev J Appaduray. The boys in the background are students from St Michael’s Insitution.
Here’s another picture of the group:
(read the full story here)
Learning ‘Nipponese’…
This was an interesting find – learning Japanese (or, Nipponese) via a booklet. It came with Romanised Malay translation too. Does anyone remember such a book?
September 2022
…ready for take-off
We thank Gary Au Yong for this picture. Seems like the pilot is making a final inspection before the plane leaves the airport. Yes, in case you didn’t recognise the building in the background…this is, of course, the Ipoh Airport.
‘makan’ time
I’m going to go out on a limb, and say that this picture probably dates back to the 1950s? Could be later, though.
We’d love to hear your thoughts – especially if you can translate the caption 🙂
Mid-Autumn Greetings!
from all of us at
Tea Time!
I’m sure many of you recognise this corner building 🙂
Do you remember the tea stall outside (as pictured above)?
(picture courtesy of Hovid)
August 2022
Selamat Hari Merdeka ke-65
from all of us at:
Railway Police?
This is a Federated Malay States Gilt Railway Police Cap Badge; a five–pointed star shaped with ‘F M S Railway Police’ between two circles and surrounding a tiger in centre.
Have you seen a badge like this before?
Staff photo, from 1955
This is said to be a Staff Photo, from 1955. We thank Gary Au Yong for this gem 🙂
Celebration Time!
We thank Gary Au Yong for this picture. It was taken on 25 April 1953. This is said to be the Perak Hoteliers’ Association at Fu Heng’s 3rd anniversary.
Japanese HQ at Anderson School?
This photograph shows Fujiwara Iwaichi with Captain M. Akram, adjutant to General Mohan Singh, at Fujiwara Kikan headquarters at the Anderson School, Ipoh, on 5th January 1942.
The military headquarters was established by Fujiwara Kikan, the military intelligence agency, on New Year’s Day 1942. The building also served as the headquarters of Indian Independence League (IIL), the Indian National Army (INA), the Kesatuan Melayu Muda (KMM), and the Sumatran Youth Association.
A year…after WW 1
This photograph reproduced from ‘Imperial Patriot’, shows a ceremony at the Ipoh Club to mark the first anniversary of declaration of World War I on 4 August 1915.
Goodbye to a Legend
With a heavy heart, we say goodbye to Dato’ Ng Boon Bee DPTJ AMN. He was a Malaysian badminton player, whose success in doubles earned him recognition as one of greatest doubles players in badminton history.
Ng Boon Bee is probably the finest sportsman to come out of SMI, being one of the stars of the Malaysian Badminton team from 1960 onwards.
Some of you may remember that year, when the Thomas Cup was paraded through SMI.
In partnership with Tan Yee Khan and later P Gunalan, he won doubles titles in all the big national and international tournaments, including the All England Doubles title twice and the Malaysian title six times.
Our condolences to his family, as well as his ‘family’ in the sporting arena.
Scenic Springs
Looks like a beautiful painting, doesn’t it? This postcard shows the hot springs at Tambun, Ipoh. It was posted to France on 28 August 1913. It shows three men in front of the geyser; behind the geyser are the famed Limestone cliffs of the Kinta Valley. This, of course, is a Kaulfuss postcard 🙂
July 2022
Coming to a theatre near you!
The month of August is usually known as “bulan Merdeka” (Merdeka/Independence Month). But did you also know that the earliest cinematograph first came to Ipoh in August 1906?
Initially the cinematograph market was monopolized by one company, the Matsuo Japanese Cinematograph Company, who used to hold nightly shows in a tent for 7-weeks running, moving from city to city. The following year however, he had competition in the form of 3 other cinematograph companies, each employing different novelties to attract crowds. (read more here)
The F&N Bottle, over the years
Here’s a comparison of F&N bottles over the years. If I’m not mistaken, the first bottle is from the 1940s. The one in the centre may have come out a few years later. The last one of course is today’s modern creation.
A Garden No More…
This was what the Japanese Garden (sponsored by the Perak Turf Club) once looked like. Of course, this picture was taken back in the 1980s. Sadly, this lovely tourist spot fell under poor maintenance and neglect over the years. It even fell prey to vandals 🙁
I don’t know what has become of this place today.
However, there was another Japanese Garden built at D R Seenivasagam Park (formerly known as Coronation Park). This garden seems to have survived over the years, and has also been given a ‘facelift’ of sorts. (read more about it here)
…high on a hill…
Did your sharp eyes see that famous symbol on the hill? Look again carefully, if you missed it 🙂
We thank Edwin Seibel for sharing this photo with us.
June 2022
The Aeroplane Comes to Ipoh!
The people of Ipoh had an opportunity to witness an aeroplane for the first time on July 1 1911! G P Kuller – one of the earliest aviators – staged a 4-day flight exhibition in Ipoh.
Thousands congregated at the race course, with 150 Europeans occupying the 1st and 2nd class seats. The 3rd and 4th class ticket-holders were largely Asian, while an even larger crowd assembled outside on Tambun Road. (read more here)
Do you recall the first time you boarded a plane?
…more ice cream to scream about…
We thank Ipoh Remembered for this advertisement, which of course is from Cold Storage Ltd.
Here’s an idea for the weekend – indulge in your preferred flavour of ice cream (with your favourite toppings too!)
Gone…but not forgotten…
The Gurkhas from Nepal were an integral part of the British Army as they fought side by side during the difficult periods of Malayan history, which included conflict against the Japanese troops in World War Two, the communist insurgents in the emergency era and the Confrontation Period with Indonesia in Borneo.
Each year on the second Saturday in June, a remembrance service takes place at this well kept cemetery where around 100 Gurkhas (soldiers and families) are laid to rest. Of these, 28 were from the British’s Second Royal Rangers Regiment.
We thank Ramadas G. Retnam for sharing this picture with us.
Malim Nawar, 1980s
Here’s a 1980s picture of Malim Nawar Village. Anyone been to Malim Nawar lately? Maybe you could tell us if this stall is still around…
We thank Marea Smith for sharing this with us.
An Ice Cream Seller
Here’s another picture which was featured in our Falim Exhibition, back in 2013.
This is said to be a Chinese ice cream seller. I wonder how he kept the ice cream cold…
May 2022
Dim Sum and F&N?
This was one of the pictures used in our Falim Exhibition a few years ago.
Has anyone tried this – Dim Sum and F&N? I usually have my Dim Sum with hot tea….to each their own, I suppose.
Celebration time!
Here’s another one from the Watson album. We were told that this was taken at the Ipoh Club.
Getting to know ‘Austin’
From the number plate, we can safely assume that this picture was taken before WW2.
I’ll leave this here for all the classic car lovers….
Silver Jubilee Medal
On this day in 1935, Towkay Leong Sin Nam was forwarded a medal – in commemoration of the Silver Jubilee of Their Majesties the late King George V and Queen Mary.
We thank Dr Leong Oon Keong (the grandson of Leong Sin Nam) for sharing these pictures with us.
One for the Album
How’s this for a lovely family photograph? We’re guessing this was taken during Hari Raya. In the picture are Jaafar and whom we believe to be his grandchildren. Don’t they look great in their baju Raya?
Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri
from all of us at:
April 2022
Welcome to Teluk Anson Town
We thank LingLi Tan for sharing this picture with us. Maybe someone familiar with Teluk Anson (or Teluk Intan, as it is called now) could tell us more 🙂
“balik kampong”
With Raya round the corner, many will be travelling back to their hometowns this year. Of course, such kampong houses (like the ones above) may no longer be around…but they were once a common sight.
Celebrity Lookalike
We’ve heard of Elvis impersonators. Some of them sound almost like the late King of Rock and Roll….almost.
Here is a Yul Brynner impersonator.
Make Way!
No, this is not a scene from the floods 😉
It is in fact an entourage crossing the Perak River. This picture was taken in 1913, and can be found in the G.C.V.O. booklet. The booklet records the celebration week that to place to mark the award of the Sultan of Perak with the Royal Victorian Order (Grand Cross of the Victorian Order, or G.C.V.O.), which carries the title Sir.
The second elephant, the Sultan’s Elephant, carried Captain Oliver – who conveyed the Insignia to His Excellency the High Commissioner.
“Visit Malaya”
This is 1 of 4 of the hand painted posters, measuring 81cm x 100cm, produced in 1961 for the Visit Malaya in Orient promotion. Does anyone recall seeing any of these posters around the town in the 1960s?
A List of Monuments and Sites
We thank Philip LaBrooy for sharing the above article with us. Unfortunately, we’re not sure of the date of this article (nor the newspaper it was taken from). This is a list of historical buildings, monuments and sites compiled by the Museums Department.
Here’s a close-up of the Perak column:
170 years!
The above badge has the words “Christian Brothers’ Schools” and “Signum Fidei” clearly printed on it, one at the bottom of the badge and the other at the top. In between there is an image of Peninsula Malaysia as well as a figure of a Catholic Brother. At the top end of the image of Peninsula Malaysia the numbers “1852” can be seen while at the lower end the numbers “1952” are printed.
We’re featuring this badge, to commemorate 170 years of the La Salle Brothers‘ legacy 🙂
March 2022
….more ‘lost’ heritage…
Here’s another picture from Eugene Lee. This one shows an old building in Taiping. Does anyone recognise it?
5 New Flavours!
This is an advertisement from a 1967 newspaper (The Straits Times). Any fans of F&N here? Which was your favourite flavour?
Ovaltine Rusks?
We have here a tin of Ovaltine teething rusks. According to our donor (Mr Chan Hoe Cheng), this tin is about 55 years old!
A day at the races…
Here’s another photo from Conrad Presgrave-Payne – the grandson of Sir R G Watson. We believe the lady seated extreme right is none other than Lady Watson herself.
This photo was taken at the Ipoh Gymkhana Club, probably back in 1913.
we all scream for ICE CREAM!
We thank Shyamala Manoharan for this lovely picture. This picture was taken at a birthday party, at the Ashby Road Transit Quarters, in the 1960s. Incidentally, as our donor tells us, this ice cream seller served ice cream at many a party there.
February 2022
Belfield Street, 1930
We thank Edwin Siebel for sharing this picture with us. Yes, it is none other than the E W Birch Fountain 🙂
Once upon a villa…
Here’s a familiar villa 🙂 What’s even more interesting is the interior – where once there was a portrait of the owner! (picture below)
We thank Lennie Brookes for sharing these pictures with us.
“Modern Living”
According to Ipoh: The Town that Tin Built, this is part of the Canning Garden housing estate. Any idea which section of Canning Garden this is?
January 2022
Gong Xi Fa Cai!
Greetings for the Year of the Tiger!
Picture courtesy of Ho Hoo Wan.
Guess the street
Does this street look familiar? Well, if it does…do let us know WHERE in Ipoh this is 🙂
The above picture was taken from "Ipoh: The Town that Tin Built"
Another fountain in Ipoh
We thank Anthony H S Law for sharing this picture on Facebook.
He also added: “Water Fountain …. This must be the forgotten Ipoh’s oldest, the rare and perhaps the only fountain of Ipoh city. Dated 1900 or 122 years old, the fountain was “PRESENTED BY LOW FOO ESQ TO THE IPOH HOSPITAL” Maker : Penang Foundry“.
Does anyone remember this fountain? Is it still around…somewhere in Ipoh?
Boon’s Iced Eau de Cologne
Did you know Boon Pharmacy had their very own Eau de Cologne?
Boon Pharmacy was run by the Chew family, as many of you know.
Incidentally, the family were neighbours with the LaBrooys.
‘rowing into town’
No, this is not a picture of the recent floods that hit us. This picture is actually from 1967, in Kuala Kangsar.
Can’t believe the water level rose that much….
Keeping it clean
The above picture shows the Ipoh Town Council’s new cleaning lorries. These lorries were used back in 1960s, of course. The advertisement below may give you a better view of them.
These pictures were taken from Ipoh: The Town that Tin Built (1962)
Happy Birthday!
They say it’s rude to ask a woman her age. This “lady” pictured above, however, is proud to announce her 115th birthday 🙂
Yes, Ipoh’s HIJ Convent is a hundred and fifteen years old today!
89 years ago…
…the Old Michaelian’s Association (OMA) was first formed. Yes, way back in 1933. The picture featured below, however, was taken a year later – on the occasion of the opening of the Association’s premises.
A 163-year wait…
New Sunday Times, February 8, 1987 – A London diary from Rehman Rashid – A book written by John Anderson the official translator to the British Government during the nineteenth century who was charged with forcing the official liaison between the Government and the Malay Kings. In the course of his duties, Mr. Anderson had access to all the treaties and documentation. He wrote this book including in it detailed transcriptions of all the treaties drawn up between his Government and the Sultans of Kedah, Perak, Selangor and Johore. He recorded the correspondence between the Sultan of Kedah and the lieges of Ava, Tavoy and Ligore – the warring Burmese and Siamese states whose eventual treaty would force Siam to invade Kedah. Mr. Anderson completed his work on September 11, 1824 and submitted the book to the Government printers – who wave immediately ordered to suppress its publications. His book was too critical of his superiors and his Government. Less than 100 copies were printed and John Anderson was left to drift quietly into historical oblivion. But he managed to dispatch one copy of his book as a matter of form to the Governor-General of India at the time, Lord Amhurst. As this was a special gift, an artist was commissioned to paint, as frontispiece to the book, a full-colour portrait of the exiled King of Kedah. This copy of Anderson’s book because of the inclusion of that unique portrait, has survived intact. Last October the copy turned up in the rare book collection of Sotheby’s, the London auctioneers. There it was sold to Mr. R. Gooch, and antiquarian book dealer in Sussex, for a hammer price of £5800. Including Sotheby’s commission, Mr Gooch paid a total of £6500 for it. For Malaysia, however, the value of the book could not easily be measured in any particular sum of money. Reading of Mr. Gooch’s purchase in the New Straits Times last October, a consortium of eminent Malaysians resolved to bring the book home. The transaction was concluded last January 26, and John Anderson’s work after 163 years, was on its way back to the land which inspired it. Tunku Abdul Rahman received the book yesterday as a birthday present. A long, long journey through history and time finally came full circle to its end.
Rather interesting story, isn’t it? I wonder what became of the book eventually…
December 2021
A PPP Membership Card
Here’s an interesting find – a membership card for the People’s Progressive Party!
Also note the signature of a VERY prominent historical figure….
A Christmas Service Order Booklet
This Order Booklet, dated 19th December 1954, from The Wesley Church in Ipoh contains a list of lessons and carols. A small paragraph reads that the church is thankful to the members of 15/19 The King’s Royal Husssars and their Commander for their wonderful musical display.
Landslide at Cameron Highlands, 1956
According to the donors of this photograph; “18 December 1956, was a day of heavy rainfall all the way from Tapah to Cameron Highlands. As the 2 Troop C Squadron of the 15/19 The Kings Royal Hussars (TKRH) were heading up in a 12-truck convoy the troopers in the leading Saracen Armoured Personal Carrier came across a big fall. Three troopers disembarked from the Saracen to guide the convoy through; as this was being done another landslide started and hit the side of their vehicle which then fell into a 300 feet deep ravine“.
More of this story can be found here.
Going Shopping?
Here’s an eco-friendly tip: Use paper bags (such as the one shown above) or bring your own reusable bags when shopping. 🙂
When was the last time you saw a Whiteaways’ bag like this one?
“Happy Birthday”
…well, belated birthday actually. Nevertheless, birthday greetings to St Michael’s Institution (SMI) – born on 4th December 1912.
Here’s a 1920s drawing of the school, which was in an old Malay bungalow.
November 2021
Aulong Police Station
Here’s a group photograph with Dato Seri Yuen Yuet Leng and Datin Seri Yuen, and Staff of the Aulong Police Station. This was taken on 12th December 1979.
A Grand Opening
Here’s one from 1985, taken at the opening of Wisma Taiko in Ipoh. I’m sure many of you recognise the VIPs in this photo 🙂
Where are they now?
We received this lovely photo from Eric Low. He’s hoping for any information regarding the young people in the above photo.
In his own words:
Once upon a time there was this band in Ipoh who called themselves “The Rain People” (**) … The 1968 or 1969 picture below was taken in one of the Catholic Churches in Ipoh when and where we performed at the birthday party of Rev Bro Ultan Paul of SMI ….Enlisting your assistance to see if any of you recognise some of the faces, for me to reconnect with a couple of them …Left to right (standing): We were all ex-MichaeliansMichael Wong (with the drumsticks, whom I know is still in the UK; lost contact).Next to him – David Hew (whose family owned the Orchid Farm off Tambun Road, which he took over in running; still in Ipoh I am guessing; lost contact).Miss Wong Mei Ching (of Housing Trust, she was a 6th Former at SMI then).Yours truly. to Mei Ching’s left ….Guy in the glasses was my best friend, Richard Chan, who sadly passed away many yeas ago; I managed to get him Aussie citizenship in the 1970s.And in centre frame (always wanting to be different), sitting down, is Zainal from Kampung Manjoi (someone whom I am desperately trying to reconnect with …)I am praying that some of these innocent faces of a yesteryear ring a bell with someone out there …
Nice day for a wedding
The photograph shows the wedding day of John Arthur Stuart Jennings and Rose Winnifred Jennings, which took place at St George’s Church, George Town, Penang on November 10th 1910.
What did YOU wear to your wedding? 🙂
A Blaupunkt Radio
Ever owned a radio like this? What were your favourite radio stations/frequencies?
The Royal Bodyguards
Did you know that the Perak Sultan once had bodyguards comprising members of the Mounted Police? Here’s an article from Harchand Singh Bedi, which appeared in The Star recently.
HRH Sultan Abdul Jalil, the Sultan of Perak, and his consort surrounded by their Sikh bodyguards comprising members of the Mounted Police from the Federated Malay States in the early 1900s.
Photo from Star Online
In the early 1880s, a small body of cavalry troops was established to suppress highway robberies, then of almost-daily occurrence in the pass between Taiping, Kamunting and Kinta. They guarded the pass at night; due to their vigilance, the dangers faced by travellers soon disappeared. The construction of the Taiping Kinta cart road and other roads in Kinta, telegraphs and railways, caused the troopers to be less necessary.
Following the formation of the Malay States Guides in 1896, the cavalry troop was separated and transferred from Taiping to Kuala Kangsar to form a royal bodyguard to escort His Highness, the Sultan of Perak. (read more here)
Armistice Day
Those of you who are familiar with Armistice Day (or Poppy Day) would know that it falls on the 11th of Nov.
The Armistice, an agreement to end the fighting of the First World War as a prelude to peace negotiations, began at 11am on 11 November 1918.
Armistice is Latin for to stand (still) arms.
As such, here is a close-up of the Cenotaph (War Memorial) at our very own Ipoh Railway Station.
As a tribute to the fallen, here’s an extract from that famous poem by John McCrae
Blue Cross
No, not a variant of Red Cross 😉
This is in fact a paper bag advertising Blue Cross condensed milk. We thank Ipoh Remember for this picture. Does anyone remember this brand?
Greetings for the Festival of Lights
May your festival of lights celebrations be fun, safe, and spiritual.
Wishing you a bright and joyous Diwali.
from all of us at
October 2021
“my day out”
Would anyone like to identify this black beauty?
A Street Parade
We thank Charlie Choong for these photographs. These were taken during a parade in Ipoh.
Could it have been during the Nine Emperor Gods festival? Can you guess the year?
That famous pipeline…
We thank Mun Chor Seng for sharing this picture with us. Yes, it’s Gopeng Pipeline! (and we believe the handsome young man in the picture is none other than our donor, of course)
Alpine Milk?
Heard of this brand? I haven’t…probably from before my time 😉
I thought it was rather interesting that the saucers are printed in 4 languages.
Cowboy’s Inn?
According to this advertisement (from 1988), this place offered a “City Day Special”. Does anyone remember where Cowboy’s Inn was? And, perhaps what’s become of the place?
…all in a row…
Here’s another blast from the past – rickshaws in a row, in Taiping nonetheless. 🙂
…when the ‘Sun’ set in Ipoh…
Dated 1st July 1983, this article mentions the Sun Cinema making its way for a skyscraper.
Do any of you remember that fateful day?
Taiping, late 1800s
Believe it or not, this picture was taken in the late 1800s in Taiping.
Bet the experts have already identified these buildings 🙂
September 2021
The Perak Pioneer
The first issue came out on 4 July 1894; a quarto 4-page bi-weekly edition, which evolved into a 4-page folio journal. By 1 January 1901, the Pioneer was converted into a tri-weekly issue – which soon expanded into 6 pages. By 1 March 1905, this paper transformed in a daily paper. It had 8 pages, with daily service of Reuter’s telegrams and the latest news relating to the Federated Malay States and the Straits Settlements. (read more here)
The picture shows the 1st issue and the printing offices. The gentleman shown is none other than the proprietor – Syed Abdul Hassan Ibnay Burhan.
August 2021
The Perak State Council
In the early 1900s, these ten gentlemen formed the Perak State Council.
They were:
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Raja Chulan bin ex-Sultan Abdullah
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Mr R. J. Wilkinson (Secretary of the Resident)
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Mr E. W. Birch, C.M.G. (British Resident)
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Towkay Foo Choo Choon
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Mr C. W. H. Cochrane (Assistant Secretary to the Resident, Clerk to the Council)
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HH Sultan of Perak, Sir Idris Mersid-El-Aazam Shah, G.C.M.G. (President)
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Towkay Leong Fee
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Towkay Chung Thye Phin
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The Orang Kaya Kaya Sri Adika Raja Shahbandar Muda, Wan Muhammad Saleh, I.S.O.
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Towkay Heah Swee Lee
A wet, wet day…
Here’s another picture of the Teluk Intan district hospital….taken during a flood.
The Teluk Intan District Hospital
Here are two rare pictures of the Teluk Intan District Hospital. I’m sure some of you can guess which year these were taken 🙂
Looking Smart!
Here’s an early 1900s view – of what a policeman wore back then!
Too bad this picture is not in colour…
A test of strength
We have here Mrs Southwell, ‘flexing her muscles’ as it were. She must have been really strong, to attempt pushing a Triumph Vitesse Six! Looking on is her husband R. J. Southwell.
This picture was taken back in 1966, during the Triumph Owners’ Club (TOC) Gymkhana.
July 2021
‘finest milk chocolate’
Here’s a virtual treat for you – Van Houten’s finest milk chocolate 🙂
While doing a little spring cleaning at home, I stumbled upon this tin (which my late grandmother used for her trinkets). I’m going to make a guess and say that this tin probably dates back to the 1970s. I could be wrong though…
Who are they?
Do you know them? Perhaps you may recognise some of these ladies. We welcome any information – especially if you can translate the caption for us 🙂
Was this the era when the “beehive” hairstyle was all a rage? 😉
June 2021
“seated in style”
Here’s another picture from a magazine. This was taken during the Triumph Owner’s Club AGM, back in 1966. The meeting was held at the Century Motors Ltd Showroom in Ipoh. Do you recognise anyone here? Guests aside, what really caught my eye were the chairs; they don’t make chairs like these anymore, do they?
May 2021
Back in 1988…
…Ipoh was declared a city! Here’s one memorable newspaper cutting of the celebrations. (more samples can be found here)
April 2021
March 2021
Memories – the ‘Great Singout’
Yes, back in 1968 there was a choral performance organised by Methodist Girls’ School. It was a charity event in aid of the school’s building fund. You can find some of the audio clips from this concert here.
Celebrating Women!
Today being International Women’s Day, we’d like to extend our wishes to all the amazing women – both in and around Ipoh, as well as the rest of the planet. Our featured post today is about women in sports:
Here is S P Seenivasagam, presenting trophies to Yeow Phaik Poh and Doreen Seow. This photo was taken around 1964. (picture courtesy of Angie Yeow, Ipoh)
Pearly Tan (right) and M. Thinaah (photo courtesy of Star Online). These ladies won the Swiss Open title yesterday.
February 2021
Time for a staff photo
This is a photograph of Maxwell Kenion Cowdy and Jones Staff, a famous legal partnership, taken on the 23rd of March 1953. Do you recognise anyone? 🙂
“Red Packets”
A red envelope or a red packet (in Mandarin it’s known as hongbao) is a monetary gift which is given during holidays or special occasions such as weddings, graduation or the birth of a baby.
That being said, I’m sure some of the young ones out there will be looking forward to receiving this ‘good fortune’ come Chinese New Year 😉
Here’s a sample of ‘hongbao’ from back then…
January 2021
A little history lesson for you…
The Battle of Kampar broke out on the night of 29 December 1941, the day after the Japanese occupied Ipoh. The British battalion, under the inspiring leadership of Lt.Col. Morrison, defended the town very well, inflicting heavy losses on the Japanese. When New Year was ushered in, many soldiers, both Japanese and British, had been killed or wounded.
December 2020
Planning a local staycation?
Yes, staycation is a word 🙂 It means “a vacation spent at home or nearby”. Well, now that you know what a staycation is….where do you plan to spend the coming holidays? Here’s an idea (ref. to picture above); why not do what the Jennings’ did?
In the above picture, J A S Jennings and his wife Freda are taking time-off at Rosedale – their cottage at Kledang Hill Station that they used on weekends and holidays. Ok, ok…so maybe you don’t own a cottage. But I’m sure there are some places near your town that offer a weekend getaway?
November 2020
Syonan Times
Have you heard of The Syonan Times? “Syonan” was the name given to Singapore by the Japanese (during the Japanese Occupation). The Syonan Times (printed in Singapore) acted as the local newspaper, and was also part of the psychological warfare the Japanese were using in Malaya.
Here’s a sample of one of their editions, from 1942, (courtesy of Philip LaBrooy):
UM’s 1st Medical Grads, 1969
SMI was proud when the first group of medical students to graduate from University of Malaya included five Michaelians. They are pictured above with another Old Michaelian, Mr Vincent Ooi Eu Sen FRCS, Head of Department of Ophthalmology at the University.
They are, from left to right:
Doctors Chin Kit Kong, Ooi Eng Aun, Chong Min Sin, Vincent Ooi Eu Sen, Thong Yee Heng, Chua Chin Tong.
145 years ago
Here’s a little history recap for you:
This grave is among one of seven Christian ones in Kampung Pisang, Pasir Panjang Ulu (in Perak). The cemetery is said to be within a placid jungle clearing against a backdrop of banana trees and thick foliage, close to the Perak River. (read more here).
October 2020
Dining at the…where?
The Ipoh Bodega was the first European restaurant to open in Ipoh. Its doors opened on the 6th August 1904. Initially catering mainly to the lunchtime crowd, it began serving dinner shortly after and a month later began to stay open until 11pm, with music to entertain the liquor-drinkers. The weather was the death of the restaurant though. Heavy rains in October resulted in the flooding of Belfield Street, the premise of Ipoh Bodega. Accessible only by sampan, Ipoh Bodega was nicknamed the Bog. Less than a month later it closed down and changed hands. The new proprietors faced a different but equally fatal quandary – the night-soil collection carts. These “honey carts” pulled up opposite the Bodega nightly between 8 and 9 pm to engage in their odoriferous task. Angry Ipohites urged for the collection hour to be pushed to midnight but to no avail. The Ipoh Bodega shut its doors for good in early 1905.
The above extract was taken from an article, from the Ipoh Echo (issue 021, 2006). Has anyone heard of The Bog? Where (in Ipoh) would it be….if it were still open today?
The ‘Super Spy’
Forget James Bond, here in Malaya we had a “super spy”. The photo isn’t all that clear (well, he was spy after all!), but you can more or less get a hint of what this spy looked like.
Based on a press cutting, he was known as: “A cunning triple agent who was feted by the British, the Japanese and the French, Lai Tek infiltrated the Malayan Communist Party (MCP) to become its secretary-general from 1938 till 1947. His duplicity was discovered in late 1945.”
How’s THAT for a spy? 🙂
…more haunting tales…
In keeping up with the Halloween theme, here’s a familiar landmark that may have had its fair share of spooky tales…
Somewhat triangular in shape the Odeon is adjacent to St Michael’s Catholic graveyard and like the post-war Rex Theatre, rumours that it is haunted abound. One popular rumour is that if you ever take off your shoes inside, you will never find them when the light comes on — even if nobody has sat in front, behind or next to you. Although the theatre was air conditioned, management would occasionally conserve energy by opening the doors on the side facing the graveyard creating a rather spooky feeling. The Theatre seated 850 on its main floor and in the balcony.
September 2020
“going up?”
Here we have an article from The Malayan Tribune, dating back to 1945.
‘Discovering’ Perak…
Here’s your “homework” for today: Study these pictures carefully. How many of these places do you recognise?
Some clues can be found here. 😉
Famous Names (12)
This is part of a portrait picture of a gentleman who had the wellbeing of all people of all races at heart. This picture was taken from an article, which describes our ‘celebrity’ as “a good-hearted, unpretentious, scrupulous and honest man who led the Indians in the fight for an independent Malaya”.
I think our history buffs are already ‘yelling’ out the answer. Yes folks, this is none other than Tun V. T. Sambanthan 🙂
August 2020
Of Women and Merdeka…
Meeting of Kaum Ibu members in Ulu Selama, Perak (1958).
The confederation of Kumpulan Kaum Ibu into independent organisations later brought about the creation of Pergerakan Kaum Ibu UMNO (renamed Pergerakan Wanita) in 1949 when the party realised the importance of a permanent women’s auxiliary body. Its leader Puteh Mariah was a dedicated and feisty who took this body to greater heights and she fought for women’s rights thus creating new ventures for women in many areas.
Kaum Ibu also provided classes for betterment of its women and this resulted in some of them being appointed to senior party positions….(read more here)
Famous Names (11)
He had been part of the SMI family since 1939 and had helped to rescue vital equipment before the Japanese took over the school buildings. As a musician himself he gave personal encouragement to the Military and Cadet bands, as well as to stage productions. For more than 40 years, he served the students, the staff and the school with great respect, understanding and love.
The Michaelians are already grinning at this entry 🙂 Yes, boys (and girls), our featured celebrity is none other than Bro Ultan Paul!
July 2020
M.R.C.S.
I’m sure you’ve heard of the Malaysian Red Cross Society, which later became the Malaysian Red Crescent Society. No, we’re not recruiting members….just wondered if anyone of you remember the badges from back then. Perhaps you were members of such clubs back in school? [As Ipoh Remembered has pointed out, the actual Red Cross badges have a red coloured cross, not white as in the above images]
On that note, here’s a little history from Wikipedia:
The Malaysian Red Crescent has its beginnings in 1948 as branches of the British Red Cross Society in the former British North Borneo (now the Malaysian state of Sabah) and Sarawak. In 1950, the British Red Cross Society established the first branch in Penang in the Federation of Malaya from which it rapidly expanded its presence in the other states.
Upon the independence of the Federation of Malaya on 31 August 1957, the branches in Malaya were reorganised as the Federation of Malaya Red Cross Society and the society was officially incorporated by statute with the passing of the Federation of Malaya Red Cross Society (Incorporation) Act 1962 by Parliament. On 4 July 1963, the Federation of Malaya Red Cross Society received official recognition as an independent national society by the International Committee of the Red Cross and subsequently admitted as a member of the League of Red Cross Societies on 24 August 1963.
With the formation of the larger federation of Malaysia on 16 September 1963, the Malaysian Red Cross Society (Incorporation) Act 1965 to incorporate the Federation of Malaya Red Cross Society and the branches of the Red Cross Society in Sabah and Sarawak under the name of the Malaysian Red Cross Society was passed by Parliament and gazetted on 1 July 1965. On 5 September 1975, the Malaysian Red Cross Society was renamed the Malaysian Red Crescent Society by the passing of the Malaysian Red Cross Society (Change of Name) Act 1975 by Parliament.
June 2020
VIP visit
Back in 1952, Countess Mountbatten visited St Michael’s Institution. As President of the St John Ambulance Association in London she toured Malaya, visiting centres where St John Ambulance activities were organised. In this photograph, she’s addressing an assembly at the school hall – where she declared a half-holiday (much to the students delight!).
The Perak Pioneer
Have you heard of the Perak Pioneer? The first issue, a 4-page bi-weekly edition, came out in 1894. Soon, the paper gained popularity and it became an 8-page daily by 1905. Sadly, on the 18th anniversary of the paper, its editor wrote his last editorial.
“a Christmas present”
Yes, yes…I know it’s not Christmas. But here’s an interesting story which appeared in the Leader magazine.
“A week after her marriage in Singapore, Mrs Bloom found herself a captive of the Japanese. Then, thrown together in misery, Occidental, Chinese and Sikh found that prison bars could not confine the human spirit. In Britain on Christmas Day in 1949, it is good perhaps to reflect on another Christmas in a far-off land just six years ago ….” (read more here)
Robin Hood in Malaya?
When the 1939-45 war in Europe ended, in which Police Lieutenant Dick Villiers had visited the continent more times than a peacetime tourist, he was dropped into Malaya as a member of Force 136. When the Japanese capitulated in 1945, Dick left the jungle in Lower Perak and by accident met the Loh family at Telok Anson (now Telok Intan). This was the beginning of an enduring friendship.
With nourishment in short supply at the end of the war, the Loh’s three month old daughter, Diane, was facing a bleak future. Dick began to feel peckish too when the army refused to put him on rations due to his ‘unofficial’ status. Similar situations had cropped up in Europe when he had ‘dropped in unannounced’ and so, like Robin Hood he solved the problem by using his special skills. (read more about his story here).
Yes, we had a ‘Robin Hood’ here in Malaya too! 🙂
May 2020
“have a seat”
Since the Movement Control Order (MCO), we know many of you miss your regular kopitiam-visits. Well, here’s a vintage Bentwood kopitiam chair…for a little nostalgia. Interestingly, Bentwood objects are made by wetting wood either by soaking or by steaming. This wood is then bent and left to harden into curved shapes and patterns.
Opening of the New Library
This photograph was taken during the official opening of the new ACS Library and wing, on 11 June 1955. The gentleman unveiling the tablet is said to be the Perak Deputy Menteri Besar. Does anyone know who he was?
Also in the photograph are: Methodist Bishop Raymond Archer (left) and school Principal Ralph Kesselring (right).
Special thanks to our donor – Ann Kesselring Hamon.
Famous Names (10)
Today’s “celebrity” is not a politician or statesman. Our famous personality once performed as a solo artiste in 1977 at the Green Fern Coffee House, Ipoh. The Green Fern Coffee House is, of course, no longer around.
I’m sure some of you recognise him (pictured above). Yes, this is none other than Joe Chin, formerly of the Fabulous Falcons!
Joe, if you’re reading this….I’m sure your fans would love to hear from you 😉
Celebrating Hari Raya in Papan
Taken in Papan in the grounds of the Raja Bilah complex outside the Rumah Besar (also known as a Rumah Godang), this photograph shows Raja Yaacob in ceremonial Malay dress with several other Malay men seated or standing around a table. There is a label on the table in Jawi that we believe translates into Hari Raya 1333, which would date the photograph as either 1912 or 1913 in the Gregorian calendar.
How are YOU planning to celebrate Hari Raya this year?
Unveiling the Cenotaph
The Cenotaph came into being as a memorial for those from Perak who died in World War 1. Initially planned to be erected shortly after the war ended in 1919, building was delayed; only to be unveiled in 1927 in a ceremony organised by ex-servicemen. We believe this photograph shows that unveiling ceremony on Armistice Day 1927.
…oops!
This article was taken from the Straits Times dated Monday 24th June 1963. It states that the Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, who arrived in Ipoh from Alor Setar was given somebody else’s coat as his own was missing!
Later, the stranger’s coat was handed over to the Malayan Airways. The airline somehow managed to recover Tunku’s coat, while the dark blue coat was flown back to Ipoh. The coat was said to contain $30 and five lottery tickets.
I do wonder what became of those lottery tickets 😉
Inside the SITC Dormitory
The Sultan Idris Training College (also known as SITC) was built in 1922. It was the first education training institution in Malaya. The above photo shows the inside of the SITC dormitory.
Any SITC alumni out there? We’d love to hear from you….
April 2020
The Kebaya
Ladies, when was the last time YOU wore an elegant Kebaya? Perhaps for a party? A wedding? A fancy dress competition?
Also….how many types of Kebaya are there?
More medical musings…
The characters across the top simply read “Chinese Sinseh” while the central panel provides the doctors name as “Zu Yong Chu” in red and his specialities below in black. These include “Physician, Pediatrician/Gynaecologist and Pulse”!
Down the left hand side the patients are assured of of “Accurate Prescriptions”, while on the right “Careful Diagnosis” is promised.
This doctor must have been popular… 🙂
March 2020
Perak Mentri Besar gets a promotion!
Remember Mohamed Ghazali bin Haji Jawi? He took over as Mentri Besar of Perak back in August 1957 (after Dato Panglima Bukit Gantang resigned).
This newspaper cutting was taken from The Straits Times dated Tuesday, 1st of March 1960. According to the article, Mohamed Ghazali was appointed Malaya’s Ambassador to the UAE.
“Gone but never forgotten”
No, we’re not in a morbid mood this Friday. In fact, tomorrow (21st March) will mark 71 years since the burial of WW II heroine Sybil Kathigasu (nee Daly).
We have here a photograph taken at St Michael’s Church, way back in 1949. The hearse can be seen arriving at the tree-lined Church Road. Also note the crowds of well-wishers and altar boys lined up on both sides of the road.
‘Men in War’
Lieutenant Benson’s platoon finds itself isolated in enemy-held territory after a retreat. Soon they are joined by Sergeant Montana, whose overriding concern is caring for his catatonic colonel. Benson and Montana can’t stand each other, but together they must get the survivors to Hill 465, where they hope the division is waiting. It’s a long, harrowing march, fraught with all the dangers the elusive enemy can summon. Starring Robert Ryan, Aldo Ray and Robert Keith.
It’s alright if you’ve not seen this movie. What we’d like to know is…can you recognise WHERE this large billboard may have been? 😉
February 2020
Movie Night…
This page was taken from the souvenir programme for the opening of the Ruby Theatre. As shown, the advertisement promotes a movie from Paramount Productions.
Were you one of those who watched romantic movies on Valentine’s Day, preferably with your significant other? Perhaps you still do…?
Happy Thaipusam
The word Thaipusam is a combination of the name of the Tamil month, Thai, and the name of a star, Pusam. This particular star is at its highest point during the festival. The festival commemorates the occasion when Parvati gave Murugan a Vel “spear” so he could vanquish the evil demon Soorapadman.
We at IpohWorld would like to wish everyone a Happy Thaipusam 🙂
We thank Keith Nelson for the above photographs.
January 2020
ACS Students befriend a ‘lion’…
We thank Ann Kesselring Hamon for sharing this photo with us. We were told that this was taken in 1957, at ACS Ipoh.
December 2019
Meet John Robson
John..who? John Robson, best remembered as the founder and proprietor of The Malay Mail newspaper 🙂
The L O N G wait…
Taken from the Straits Times, dated 25th Dec 1959, it states that many have complained about the long waiting hours at the Taiping District Hospital. One of the patients, who went to the hospital at 9a.m., was not admitted until 5.30p.m.
I guess we’re still having the same issues today, aren’t we? 😉
‘new beginnings’
Did you know…that the foundation stone for the present building of St John’s Church was laid on 15 December 1910? Here’s a picture of the church when it was just completed (in 1912).
November 2019
The Teacher…and his students
We thank Barat Kumar for sending us this picture. In his own words, Barat explains:
“As we bear witness to the passing of a great man I would like to share this picture of Our beloved Mr Selvamany. Picture was taken on 14 July 1972 at a farewell assembly. This was when he went on transfer. From left Thian Hock (?) and Chong Kee Seng.Accompanying Mr Selvamany is Principal”
October 2019
Popular Snack
Murukku is a savoury, crunchy snack originating from the Indian subcontinent, popular in southern India, and Sri Lanka. The name derives from the Tamil word for “twisted”. Murukku is typically made from rice and urad dal flour. The flours are mixed with water, salt, chilli powder, asafoetida and either sesame seeds or cumin seeds. The mix is kneaded into a dough, which is shaped into spiral or coil shapes either by hand or extruded using a mould. The spirals are then deep fried in vegetable oil.
The above information was taken from Wikipedia. Yes, with Deepavali around the corner many of us will be looking forward to savouring this ever popular snack.
In case you’re wondering what the murukku mould looks like, here are two pictures:
How to shave ice
Some time ago, we featured a wooden ice shaver. Well, here’s a picture of how one would shave ice – the traditional way 🙂
Milo Tricycle?
Long before the famous Milo Vans, there was the Milo Tricycle. We believe this was the brainchild of an innovative Indian gentleman in the late 1950’s. He lived in Buntong but kept his tricycle in a shop in Old Town. The picture featured on today’s blog is a replica of the Milo Tricycle, made by our contractor Y Cheng Thymes.
There is also a bit more about the men behind the Milo Tricycle, on this Ipoh Echo link.
September 2019
Area Security Unit?
We thank our donor Tom Turnbull for this photo. He can be seen, standing 3rd from right, with the Area Security Unit (ASU). This was taken at a rubber estate two miles south of Batu Gajah Town.
Alien Technology?
Nope! This is actually a carbide lamp 🙂
How does it work? Well…pellets or chunks of calcium carbide are placed in the lower chamber. The upper chamber is then filled with water. A screw valve or other mechanism is used to control the rate at which the water is allowed to drip into the chamber containing the calcium carbide. By controlling the rate of water flow, the production of acetylene gas is controlled. This, in turn, controls the size of the flame which has a reflector behind it to redirect light to the front.
When was the last time you saw a lamp like this?
August 2019
The year was 1957…
…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.
Local Football Heroes
The picture shows the Perak XI Football Team (back 1957), in Ipoh. Do you remember them?
Merdeka Clock Towers
There are many clock towers in and around the state of Perak. According to the above article from Vicinity Perak, Perak is home to three clock towers which were constructed to commemorate Independence Day. Where are these clock towers you say? Well, they can be found in Kampar (built in 1957), Parit (1959) and Sungai Siput (1960).
How many have YOU visited?
July 2019
June 2019
May 2019
Award for a Brave Girl
Remember the time (back in school) when you received an award for excellent exam results? I remember getting an award for good PMR results (though I can’t recall what the prize was).
Well, back in 1947 Dawn Kathigasu received an award for bravery! The gentleman beside her is Mr A. Aston (British Resident Commissioner for Perak).
13th May 1948
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.
Farewell to an icon…
Back in 1969, we bid farewell to a political giant – D R Seenivasagam. Here’s a picture showing part of the funeral procession.
Do you recognise the building in the far left?
A Protest in Grik
Where were you in May 1974? Do you remember an incident, whereby a hundred members of the Communist Party of Malaya (CPM) guerillas gathered and planted explosives which blew up earth-moving equipment along the East-West Highway at Grik, North Perak? Well, we’re not going to show you some graphic photos of what happened; instead, we have one of a protest which was held the following month…
April 2019
Ipoh Food Festival
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.
Including1) Dine in the Dark (rm15 per pax)
Register via WhatsApp name > 012-4128038Rattan Basket Weaving Workshop [1 seat left]
27 Apr | 4:30pm (2 hours)
https://loka.fun/ft-rattan-basket-weaving-27aprFruit and Vegetables Bouquet Workshop [8 seat left]
27 Apr | 7pm (2 hours)
https://loka.fun/ft-fruit-veggie-bouquet-27aprCultural 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-indianIpoh 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-halalLiberica White Coffee Roasting Workshop [8 seat left]
4 May | 4:30pm or 8:30pm (1 hour)
https://loka.fun/ft-liberica-coffee-roasting-4mayMalaysia Local Coffee Roasting Workshop [9 seat left]
4 May | 4:30pm or 8:30pm (1 hour)
https://loka.fun/ft-msia-coffee-roasting-4mayBees Wax Wrap Workshop by A Bit Less Bulk Store [7 seat left]
4 May | 4:30pm (2 hours)
https://loka.fun/ft-beeswax-wrap-4mayCoffee Scrub Workshop [10 seat left]
4 May | 7pm (2 hours)
https://loka.fun/ft-coffee-scrub-workshop-4mayIpoh 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-4mayMore info is at Ipoh Food Fest Facebook page
https://m.facebook.com/theipohfoodfest/
Well, what are you waiting for? Come join in the fun 🙂
“I want to ride my bicycle”
Here is Percival Moss, with his ‘faithful ride’. Moss was a tailor who sewed uniforms for the Malay States Guides and other military organisations, back in the early 1900s. We thank his grandson Bernard for sharing this photograph (along with many others of the Moss family, who once lived in Taiping).
Any guesses as to what type of bicycle he’s riding?
March 2019
Let’s talk about movies
This is a souvenir programme from 1938 – the year Ruby Theatre was opened. What’s so special about the Ruby Theatre? Well besides being built by Lau Ek Ching, it was also known as Ipoh’s Ultra Modern Talkie Palace! What’s a ‘talkie’ ? A film with sound, of course 😉
As Wikipedia states: “The primary steps in the commercialization of sound cinema were taken in the mid- to late 1920s. At first, the sound films which included synchronized dialogue, known as “talking pictures”, or “talkies”, were exclusively shorts. The earliest feature-length movies with recorded sound included only music and effects. The first feature film originally presented as a talkie was The Jazz Singer, released in October 1927. A major hit, it was made with Vitaphone, which was at the time the leading brand of sound-on-disc technology. Sound-on-film, however, would soon become the standard for talking pictures. By the early 1930s, the talkies were a global phenomenon….“
Talkies aside, do you remember when films shifted from black-and-white to colour? And for the (even) younger folks, do you remember when Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) was first used in films?
Teen Idols?
When The Falcons had to end due to their manager quitting, the band members, Joe Chin, Michael Ho, Christopher Choong and Thomas Ham decided to concentrate on their education, leaving the stuffed Falcon (the band’s mascot) with Christopher. But not long after that, Joe and Michael found two other guys, (Kenny Ham, Thomas’ brother and Vincent Joseph, his cousin), who shared their interest and together they formed ‘The Teenage Fentons‘….
Just wondering…any of the members of the Teenage Fentons still around? We’d love to hear from you 🙂
Singing with emotion
Audiences said what set her apart was her complete immersion into the emotion of her songs. Most of her songs are sentimental love ballads, wistful, nostalgic melodies, and her entire composure and movements would reflect the mood of her music. She often cried as she sang on stage…. (read more here)
This time, we’re featuring a celebrity closer to home. The above photo is none other than Taiwanese singer Yao Su Rong. Do you remember her?
Then & Now – Movie Posters
Continuing our ‘Then & Now’ series, here we have a comparison of two movie posters. Both were action/adventure films from different years. On the left (courtesy of Edwin Seibel) is a 1957 poster for Moby Dick; on the right is none other then the poster for Avengers Assemble. Anyone know how movie posters were made back then…before computers and graphic-designing software?
‘Reel’ life
“16 mm refers to the width of the film; other common film gauges include 8 and 35mm. It is generally used for non-theatrical (e.g., industrial, educational) film-making, or for low-budget motion pictures. It also existed as a popular amateur or home movie-making format for several decades, alongside 8mm film and later Super 8 film.” – Wikipedia
Have you ever seen or held such a reel? Tried to feed it through a projector? I’m sure someone out there can share a tale or two about this film reel 😉
“The Greatest Show on Earth”
This play opened in 1938. Some of you may be too young to recall this…or were not even born yet. Then, there was a 1952 film produced and directed by Cecil B. DeMille. A similar production came out in 2017 (titled “The Greatest Showman”), which also revolved around the famed duo Barnum & Bailey.
For the movie-buffs out there, can you identify the poster shown above? Was it for the 1938 play…or the 1952 movie?
“for your eyes only”
In the 1960s, a magician by the name of John Calvert drove from the Ipoh Airport to Lido Cinema…blindfolded! No, I’m not kidding; the above picture was taken at Cockman Street showing Calvert in an Austin Gypsy..with his eyes covered.
We’re not encouraging you to try this stunt…but we’re wondering if anyone out there remembers John Calvert and his magic show 🙂
February 2019
Boys night out!
Some of you may be able to guess WHERE this place is. So don’t keep those guesses to yourselves.
On another note, what did YOU do during your younger days…when you had a Boys/Girls Night Out?
January 2019
Spot the landmarks
How sharp are your eyes? Can you identify some of the familiar/popular buildings in this aerial view photograph? Some of you experts out there may already know which part of Ipoh this is too 😉
Another Friday mystery
Could it be Gopeng Road? Tapah? Batu Gajah? Or…nowhere near Ipoh? You tell us 🙂
Sama Sama is BACK!
Don’t know what to do the coming long weekend? Well, why don’t you head on out to Ipoh Old Town. Lots of exciting events will be happening on the 19th and 20th of January 2019 – you wouldn’t want to miss it!
Curious? Want to know more? Visit the Sama Sama Perak Facebook page.
A Day at the Races
In June 1957, there was the Perak Derby. Here are some photos (from Nick Band) which were taken at the Perak Turf Club. Anyone remember the Perak Derby?
No ‘hanky-panky’ here….
“..Besides their intended use, they could be used for cleaning equipment, polishing shoes, cleaning hands and face, signalling for attention, as a sweat band, neckerchief, as protection from dust inhalation, to repair footwear, cut out pieces to patch clothes, cut up as emergency firearms cleaning patches, Molotov cocktail wick (fire-bomb), hot cooking utensil holder, a makeshift bandage, tourniquet, or arm sling...” – Wikipedia
Were you one of those ladies/gentlemen who used handkerchiefs? Do you still use them? Is your preferred handkerchief as fancy as the one in the picture (below)?
MORE school tales…
Special thanks to SK and Ooi Kean Chye for these photos. On the left is NTPS Pasir Puteh back in 1962, on the right is the same school today (2019).
SK also shared with us: “In the 1962 picture, in between the buildings in the middle was where we took our pictures. On the left of the picture was the School Lavatory, then School Tuck Shop. We used to hang around the Tuck Shop….The school field on the further left had gone & replaced by double storey classes. The Headmaster residents, the Day Teacher’s Centre, The Dental Clinic on the left all gone“.
Back to School!
Students from NTPS Jalan Pasir Puteh are probably grinning at the screen now. As for the former students…has the school changed much over the years? Maybe some of you have old photos of the building back then…do share them with us.
On that note, how many of you remember YOUR first day at school? Was it exciting? Scary? Did it end in tears? Did you make friends with everyone? Or…maybe you preferred to sit in the corner of the classroom with your head down? Do share some of your “First Day at School” stories with us 🙂
December 2018
Three ‘friends’ at Old Town
If they ever came to life (like in those Disney cartoons), perhaps these vehicles would have been good friends 😉
Here we have a bicycle, a car and a van; all three of them ‘worked’ for Ho Yan Hor.
We’d like to hear from the car-lovers out there – can you identify the type of car shown in this picture?
Banking in Taiping
Believe it or not, Mercantile Bank existed in Taiping too 🙂
Does anyone know if this bank is still in business? Or…maybe it goes by another name now?
More puzzles for you
Many of you managed to ‘solve’ our Monday puzzle. Let’s see how many of your can guess THIS one.
Ruth, if you are reading this…don’t give up the answer too soon 😉
Another puzzle for YOU
Familiar area? Yes? No? Well, I don’t blame you if you can’t recognise this place. It is SO VERY DIFFERENT now. For those of you who know the answer, feel free to drop us a comment (or two). By the way, this place is in Ipoh…
‘Be Prepared’
Let’s hear from the Boy Scouts. What were your favourite memories back then?
(Or, maybe you have an interesting campfire-tale or two to share?)
November 2018
Cross-country run
Thanks to our donor, we have an interesting photograph here. These boys (and their Teacher perhaps?) are in the middle of a cross-country run. Any guesses as to what building that is in the background? 🙂
Famous Names (8)
Some of you may already recognise this person. For those who don’t, here are some fun facts about him:
- he was an architect and developer
- he once worked for the Ipoh Town Board as a draughtsman
- he also owned Caxton Press (along Belfield Street)
- he and his family lived at Dulcieville Lane
Yes, he is none other than C H Labrooy!
Fast cars and Pretty girls ?
Do you remember the year these Alfa Romeo cars came to Malaysia? Perhaps the car-lovers might be able to tell us more. Maybe someone out there was standing in the crowd watching this promotion.
And…if you were one of these pretty girls in the photograph, we’d love to hear from you too 😉
‘another one bites the dust’
No, we’re not being ‘bitter’ about it…but did anyone realise that this beautiful floral clock is no more? For those who’ve never had the chance to see it, here are two pictures for you; both are from Ann Kesselring Hamon. The lady in white (left image) is Ann’s mother Florence Kesselring. As for the right image, it was taken from a 35mm Kodachrome slide.
For those (like me) who have never seen this lovely clock, it was once part of the Japanese Garden along Tambun Road.
‘Remember me?’
Remember this memorial? Any idea where in Ipoh Town it stood? Or…maybe you might know WHO built it?
‘here today, gone tomorrow’
Ever wondered what was at the back of the Ipoh Railway Station? Well, here’s a late 1930s view (picture courtesy of Winson Saw):
October 2018
ACGS?
Anglo Chinese Girls School? Well, if you didn’t know what the ACGS building looked like here’s an old photo.
Looks like the Methodist Girls School building? That’s because it IS the MGS building 🙂 ACGS was named MGS back in 1959.
That VRI building…
Yes, the building in the background is none other than the Veterinary Research Institute at Tiger Lane. Our donor estimates that this photo was taken around 1955. Have you been to this place? If so, do share your thoughts with us 🙂
YMCA Building, Ipoh
Yes, folks…believe it or not, this is what the YMCA building looked like back in 1954. Pity the beautiful garden is no longer there today 🙁
The (not so) New Village…
How many of you out there lived / grew up in Simee? We’d love to hear some of your childhood adventures (or, misadventures…especially the funny ones 😉 ).
Maybe someone out there may also know HOW Simee got its name?
Abandoned building?
No, this was said to be the temporary building for the Anglo Chinese Girls’ School, back in the 1950s. For those of you who don’t know, Anglo Chinese Girls’ School (or ACGS Ipoh) later became Methodist Girls’ School (MGS). Of course, the MGS building now looks nothing like this one pictured above.
MGS Alumni, we’d love to hear from you! 🙂
All in a day’s work…
Perhaps this was once a familiar sight in Ipoh town – dulang washers walking through the town, either going towards or coming back from the river. Anyone wants to guess which part of town these ladies are passing through?
Scenes from a parade
Many of you may have seen the Kuomintang Parade photos on our database. Here’s another one, from Ann Kesselring Hamon’s collection.
What’s so special about this, you ask? Well, it’s in colour!
ps: Recognise the street?
Sneak peek – inside the Kinta Kellas Estate bungalow
Hypothetical scenario: Imagine you’ve just inherited a LOT of money…and you’ve decided to build a beautiful mansion. Well, let us ‘help’ you with some interior decoration ideas 😀
We have here some photographs of what the inside of the Kinta Kellas Estate bungalow once looked like. Yes, this wooden bungalow once belonged to none other than William Kellie Smith – of the famous Kellie’s Castle.
Let the music play…
We believe these musicians were part of the Perak Hui Zhou association. While we try to find out more about this, perhaps someone out there could help us out. Does anyone remember this public performance? And if you do, do you recognise the buildings in the background?
September 2018
What’s this?
Some of you may recognise it. Some of you are still scratching your heads. Worry not, this is in fact the ruins of a brick bungalow built by none other than William Kellie Smith. Last I recall, these ruins were within the grounds of the famed Kellie’s Castle (hope they haven’t disappeared or made way for ‘development’).
Town Hall, Taiping
Yes, you read it right. This is the old Town Hall…in Taiping 🙂 We think this photograph was taken in the early 1900s (we could be wrong). Anyone from Taiping reading this? We’d like to know what’s become of this building.
Relaxing after a cricket game
In the back row, right, is a gentleman by the name of Charles Green. History-buffs may tell you that ‘Greentown’ was named after him. This photograph was taken in 1902, after a cricket match. Do you recognise anyone else in this photograph?
August 2018
Rare photo
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….
Lower Six Science 2, Anderson School
We received this via email from SK (who sent it to us on behalf of the donor). According to SK, Gurpal is looking for his former classmates.
Anyone out there from Lower Six Science 2? Gurpal is looking for you. Incidentally, SK told us that this picture was taken in April 1967 – Gurpal’s last day at Anderson School; apparently one of his classmates lent him a coat to wear – yes, the young man in the dark coat is none other than Gurpal.
‘Visit Malaya’ poster
Yes, “Visit Malaya” posters existed back in 1961! Here’s one which some of you may have seen… (you can read more about this poster here).
A different kind of ‘banker’…
Chettiar (or Chetty) is a title used by various mercantile castes and social levels in South India – especially in the state of Tamil Nadu. They claim a legendary relationship with the Hindu God Murugan; according to the legend, Murugan married Valli (who was from a tribal group), hence her tribe was later called Chettyars – in order to restore Valli’s status as a consort to a god.
Interestingly, here in Ipoh there were more than 100 Chettiar families once. They were known as the Nattukottai Chettiar. These financiers were preferred to the usual bankers back in the day. On our database we have an interesting interview with the last of the Nattukottai Chettiars in Ipoh.
Here’s a picture of what may have been the inside of a Chettiar’s ‘office’…
Tourist Trails of Old Ipoh
“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/
An Interesting Find
We thank Lennie Brooks for these pictures. Her father once served in the 15/19 Hussars as their Company Sergeant Major Instructor. Back in 1955, they lived at No. 20, Chung Thye Phin Road – yes, at Chung Thye Phin’s mansion nonetheless. These pictures show a mosaic of Chung Thye Phin and also an interesting marble statue, which were once part of the mansion’s deco.
Girl’s best friend?
Ms Monroe once sang about diamonds being a girl’s best friend. From this photo, it seems like this lady loves the car (instead of those precious stones).
But I must say, between the precious stones and a beautiful car….I would choose a car (but that’s just me!)
Me and my wheels…
Here’s a photo taken in Kampar. Recognise the car? By the way, the lady leaning against the car is our donor’s mother.
July 2018
Taking the train…
Here’s a picture of the FMSR Locomotiv Class G.
The locomotive was built by R. Stephenson. It was placed in Perak Railway with the name FMSR 47 in July 1901. It was scrapped on November 1931. A series of 34 4-6-0 locomotives were built by Kitson (16), Hunslet (5), Neilson Reid & R. Stephenson.
And just for interest sake, here’s a picture of what the inside of a first class coach looked like 🙂
“World famous chocolates”
As a follow up to our previous blog post, we’d like to share something Ipoh Remembered sent us. This is a Cadbury advertisement printed in 1919!
Cathay Cold Creameries?
Could this have been a branch of Cold Storage? Or, perhaps Cold Storage’s competitor? We don’t know, so we’re hoping someone out there could help us out. Our anonymous donor didn’t say much about this photograph (and unfortunately, we are no longer in contact with this person). I’m sure someone out there visited 47 Cockman Street at some point in their life…
Making way for development…
According to the article, many of the wooden houses in Greentown would have to make way for development. About 16 houses would be demolished and the area would then house the ‘new’ municipal council building (present Majlis Bandaraya Ipoh building). Anyone remembers the ‘new’ municipal council building?
The ‘beer can test’ ?
Following your enthusiastic comments on an old blog post, we decided to put up something else from the Triumph Owners Club (Perak) Magazine. These are from the Driving Tests at the Military Square, Ashby Road, Ipoh (back in 1975). The car on the right was said to be a Triumph Herald 1200 saloon. Car lovers care to tell us about the car on the left? 🙂
On another note, what IS a ‘beer can test’?
June 2018
ANY Gift House?
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
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?
Sports Day, at the Anglo-Chinese Girls’ School
Yes, you read it right – Anglo-Chinese Girls’ School. Maybe you’re more familiar with its current name – Methodist Girls’ School (MGS).
Anyway, here is a nostalgic photograph taken during the sports day. The guest of honour is none other than Mrs Florence Kesselring.
Perak Club
Yes, there was such a place called Perak Club. It was founded in Taiping, in 1880. Thanks to Bernard Moss, we have some pictures of it on our database. Here’s one of the pictures – just to show you what the building looked like.
May 2018
Ever heard of Sinalco?
No, we didn’t make this word up 😉
‘Sinalco’ is said to be an abbreviation of the Latin sine alcohole, which means “without alcohol”. Sinalco is the oldest soft drink brand in Europe (it was first marketed in 1902!), and is produced by Sinalco International, Germany.
Perhaps the advertisement might give you a clue as to how these bottles of non-alcoholic drinks looked like back then.
Be Prepared!
No, we’re not trying to scare you 😉 Although not strictly a Psychological Warfare tool, like the air-dropped leaflets, this brochure certainly formed an early part of the psychological fight against the communists. For those of you who remember the Malayan Emergency, have you seen similar posters in and around your neighbourhood?
Election Results!
No, we’re not predicting the coming election results 😉
This is an article from 1963, from the Straits Times, which reported that PPP (People’s Progressive Party) retained Ipoh.
April 2018
Up to no good?
Not quite. This picture was taken at an actual event, which was held at the Lido Theatre in Ipoh! Does anyone remember this event? If you are this 12 year old who won this competition…we’d LOVE to hear from you too! 😉
“Birch and I”
In this 1959 photograph, our donor (Charlie Choong) can be seen posing on the steps of the Birch Clock Tower. Note the bust in the background 😉
“what to eat?”
Back in the day, if you didn’t know what to eat on a Saturday night you could just head to the Station Hotel. Their dinner menu on 15th October 1955 would definitely NOT leave you hungry 😉
‘Drawing kit’ ?
Toolbox? Not quite…it’s actually a set of instruments used by draughtsmen. Yes, before computers took over, building plans and such were drawn by hand! This Rotring set is boxed in a leatherette case with a velvet lining; incidentally Rotring is a German technical writing and drawing instruments company based in Hamburg.
March 2018
Have you seen a platform ticket?
We once featured an old railway ticket. Today, we’re showcasing a platform ticket. 🙂
Yes, it cost 20 cents!
Ipoh Federal Building
We believe that this was the Ipoh Federal Building on Club Road (now Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang). Would anyone happen to know more about this place?
February 2018
The Perak Education Department
Our donors told us that this was taken in the 1950s, outside the Perak Education Department offices. Seated 4th from the left is Sinniah S/O Sinnathamby (Inspector of Indian Schools, Perak).
Paper Planes
Recognise this drawing? Were you any good at it? Did you have ‘flying’ competitions with your friends? Ok, own up…how many of you played with paper planes? We’d also like to hear from the model airplane enthusiasts.
I'll admit I had paper dolls once. Spent hours designing, colouring and cutting out clothes for them ;)
…you know what this is?
I’m sure many of you can guess what this is 🙂
Yes, these are cake pans used to make the famous Nian Gao – which is made from glutinous rice. While it can be eaten all year round, traditionally it is most popular during Chinese New Year. It is considered good luck to eat nian gao during this time, because nian gao is a homonym for “higher year.” This sticky sweet snack was believed to be an offering to the Kitchen God, with the aim that his mouth will be stuck with the sticky cake, so that he can’t badmouth the human family in front of the Jade Emperor.
Legends and myths aside, how do YOU enjoy Nian Gao? I like it sandwiched between two slices of yam, which is then dipped in batter and deep fried 😉 (all this talk of food is making me hungry now)
Let’s Celebrate!
Here’s another photo from Michael Ho’s collection. This one was taken on 14th July 1966, during a dinner held in honour of Rev Bro Assistant Superior General. We think this was probably held at the school hall of St Michael’s Institution. Do you recognise any of the gentlemen in this group?
January 2018
Outside Grandma’s house…
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.
Meeting the ‘king’
No, not another Royal…not the King of Rock & Roll either. We’re talking about the King of Fruits! Yes…the DURIAN!
This photograph was taken in 1995, according to our donor. From the buildings in the background, can you guess where this place is?
Dinner with Royalty!
Do you know these VIPs? Ok, we’ll make it easier for you 😉 Seated on the extreme right is none other than S P Seenivasagam.
Next to him is of course Sultan Idris and the lady beside him is his Consort (Che Puan Negara Aminah). And how can we forget Lau Pak Khuan – seated in the centre!
Do you know any of the others in the photograph? Or…perhaps you recognise the background and are able to tell us WHERE this photo was taken?
Another SMI Play?
Let’s see if the Michaelians remember this one (see pictures below):
Recognise the costumes? The actors? The title of the play?
I only recognise Bro Pius Kelly, standing in the back (between the ‘gentleman’ with the top hat and the ‘maiden’).
Smile, Teachers!
Is your teacher in this group? If yes, do point him/her out to us? The only one I recognise here is Bro Ultan Paul.
11 kilos?
Yes, that’s what I’d like to ask our local coffee drinkers out there. How come this particular bag of coffee came in 11 kilos? I always thought such goods were packed in either even numbered weights or in multiples of 5 (or basic 1 kilo or 1/2 kilo). Could it be a misprint? Or, did this factory just want to stand out and be different…by selling coffee powder in 11 kilo bags 😉
“Care for a biscuit?”
This was not a posed photograph. In fact, this was a common scene during the Second World War – when expatriates stopped at the Ipoh Railway Station, on their way to Singapore. When Penang was invaded by the Japanese in 1941, all European Service Families had to be evacuated.
It may not be clear, due to the low resolution of the photograph, but did you notice the Huntley & Palmer biscuit tin?
December 2017
Marian Year Pageant, 1954
This photo was taken on 8th December 1954. It was taken during the Marian Year Pageant. Were you part of this pageant? Recognise anyone in the group?
More Royal Visits!
This was not taken in Ipoh, but we thought of sharing this rare find with all of you. These photos were part of a series, taken back in 1956 (some were faded, some were damaged).
Here we have HRH the Duke of Edinburgh visiting a dredge in Jinjang. The gentleman in the dark sunglasses is George Seddon – the General Manager of Anglo-Oriental. We know the photos are not as clear as they should be, but can you recognise any of the other gentlemen?
All ‘charged’ up!
A rechargeable battery, storage battery, secondary cell, or accumulator is a type of electrical battery which can be charged, discharged into a load, and recharged many times, as opposed to a disposable or primary battery, which is supplied fully charged and discarded after use. It is composed of one or more electrochemical cells. The term “accumulator” is used as it accumulates and stores energy through a reversible electrochemical reaction. Rechargeable batteries are produced in many different shapes and sizes, ranging from button cells to megawatt systems connected to stabilize an electrical distribution network. Several different combinations of electrode materials and electrolytes are used, including lead–acid, nickel–cadmium (NiCd), nickel–metal hydride (NiMH), lithium-ion (Li-ion), and lithium-ion polymer (Li-ion polymer). [for more click here]
That being said, do any of you remember this object (pictured above)? Have you ever used something like this before? ‘Recharge’ us with your stories….
Cute and Funny Stickers!
We thank SK for sharing these stickers with us. Familiar, aren’t they? These stickers apparently came with MAD Magazine.
Did you collect them? Were they part of a series?
November 2017
Opening of the Premier Store
Looks like the grand opening of a store in Ipoh. The back of these photographs say it’s the Premier Store, Ipoh (dated 11 Jan 1968). Any idea where in Ipoh this place was?
The gentleman cutting the ribbon is none other than Sultan Idris Al-Mutawakkil Alallahi Shah, and the lady beside him is his consort YTM Che Puan Negara Aminah. We thank our anonymous donor for sharing these photographs with us.
Remember Her?
We’re talking about the lady on the left (in the glittery outfit). Recognise her? She’s none other than Sakura Teng – the Go-go Queen from the 1970s. Do you remember her? Were you a fan?
Then and Now – St Joseph School, Batu Gajah
The photo on the left was taken back in the 1940s, showing St Joseph School in Batu Gajah. The one on the right was taken from the Star Metro (dated 4 November 2017). This building was built as early as 1928, believe it or not. According to Star Metro, efforts are underway to restore this place…and hopefully gain Heritage Status! (Read the article here).
October 2017
Time for…..ICE KACANG!
Yes, one look at this machine and all that comes to my mind is: a bowl of shaved ice, drenched in brown sugar syrup and topped with jelly (of various shapes, sizes and colours), kidney beans, sweet corn and peanuts. Oh, and not forgetting a dash of santan too!
Ah, bet some of you are already salivating 😉
What better way to cool down on a hot day, eh?
Royal Visit to Ipoh
The year was 20 June 1962, when King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit arrived in Kuala Lumpur. This was part of their state long visit. On 24 June, the Royal couple stopped by Ipoh. (pictures below taken from New Sunday Times, 22 October 2017)
“Kinta in Ipoh”
That’s what the caption of the photograph said. This is a rather interesting view of the Kinta River, with the houses on both sides of the bank. If you squint, you can see the bridge too. Which bridge this is, your guess is as good as mine 😉 Special thanks to the National Archives, UK, for this photograph.
UPDATE: We believe that the bridge in the background was the once wooden structure of the Hugh Low Bridge; therefore the village shown was most likely Kampong Laxamana.
From the J. J. Series
This postcard, from the J. J. Series, shows Selibui Road in Ipoh. We believe the postcards from this series ranged from 1905 – 1910. From what we found out from the book ‘Perak Postcards: 1890s-1940s‘, this photo probably shows the early intake dam and waterworks in Selibin (Silibin today). To quote from the book: “Water supply to Ipoh was originally conveyed from Selibin (also spelt Selebin). The great want there [in Ipoh] at present is a good water supply. This can be met by bringing water in pipes from Selibin, a distance of some three miles, and the Datoh Penglima Kinta has offered to undertake the work“.
Anyone care to guess the exact date of this postcard?
September 2017
Wagner Piano
Not to be confused with the German composer Wilhelm Richard Wagner, this souvenir is from Wagner Piano – a local company set up by A C Hoe and his wife. Now, the mystery: if you look at the picture closely, you’ll notice the words “established since 1920”. But according to the Wagner Piano story, this company was set up in 1951. The same story also mentions that A C Hoe’s father – F L Hoe – left Ningbo (China) for Singapore in 1920.
Perhaps some of our history buffs could give a clue or two to help us out here….
Meet Bibendum
As the story goes…… “in 1889 two brothers, Édouard Michelin and André Michelin, ran a rubber factory in Clermont-Ferrand, France. One day, a cyclist whose pneumatic tire needed repair turned up at the factory. The tire was glued to the rim, and it took over three hours to remove and repair the tire, which then needed to be left overnight to dry. The next day, Édouard Michelin took the repaired bicycle into the factory yard to test. After only a few hundred metres, the tire failed. Despite the setback, Édouard was enthusiastic about the pneumatic tire, and he and his brother worked on creating their own version, one that did not need to be glued to the rim. Michelin was incorporated on 28 May 1889. In 1891 Michelin took out its first patent for a removable pneumatic tire which was used by Charles Terront to win the world’s first long distance cycle race, the 1891 Paris–Brest–Paris” (read more here)
Thanks to persistence and hardwork (and creativity too), we now have a famous name in the world of tyres. As for the mascot shown…yes, his name is Bibendum…but we usually call him the Michelin Man 🙂
Feelin ‘lucky’, punk?
We’re not encouraging you to take up smoking; we’re just curious to know if any of you remember Lucky Strike Filters 😉 Could you buy these tins off the rack at your local grocery store? Or were they sold by the man who rode on a cigarette tricycle?
Should you wish to see a real cigarette tricycle, drop by Sarang Paloh today anytime between 5pm – 9pm. Our exhibition started yesterday and will end on 10th September 2017.
August 2017
The Federation Flag
Have you seen the Federation Flag? Do you remember what it looked like? We have one in our collection (see below)
Notice the difference between this flag and our present one?
When was the last time…
…you saw something like this? Some of you may already know what this is. Well, let me just say that our famed Star Barber once used this tool…
P.I.E. ?
Have you heard of the Perak Institute of Electronics (PIE)? We’re hoping someone out there can help us out with this little mystery…
HIJ Convent, 1964
We thank Sybil for this class photograph, showing the students and teachers from the HIJ Convent (now SM Convent), Ipoh.
Sybil managed to provide some names (click here); however, we still need more 🙂
Convent Alumni, you girls up for the challenge?
“Hello? Is it me you’re looking for?”
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.
Collecting Rations
This NST picture shows people collecting their rice rations from one of the 19 distribution points in Sungai Siput. The gentleman in the foreground is See Khoon Lim, the then chairman of the local council; on his left is K. Sockalingam, then police chief of Sungai Siput. This picture is said to be dated 10 August 1958.
“It’s my birthday!”
Do you have a favourite birthday memory? We’d like to hear about it…just for nostalgia’s sake.
Here’s a nice photo of Honey Lim, celebrating her 2nd birthday.
The Drifters
How many of you remember The Drifters?
How many of you saw them perform at the Rex Cinema?
How many of you remember the dragons on the walls, which ‘watched over’ the cinema goers?
July 2017
Scenes at the kopitiam
When I visit the local kopitiam, I can’t help but stop and stare at such hawkers (like in the above photo). It’s fascinating to watch them cut up the meat with their ever-sharp cleaver, and they are really quick (I wouldn’t dare attempt such a feat at home, lest I loose my fingers!). Is it an inherited skill?
Fashion Show at the HIJ Convent?
Yes, you read it right! Don’t these ladies look lovely? Special thanks to Ong Wei Mei for the above photograph, which was taken in 1966.
A Memorable Performance?
Does anyone remember these lovely ladies and their hula hoops? Well, I’m sure some of you do.
These ladies performed at the Lido Theatre; at one time, it was common to see such performances at cinemas.
Familiar Advertisement
I wonder how many of you remember this advertisement. We got this off the back back of an old exercise book.
What other products were advertised on the back of exercise books during your school days?
During my school days, the backs of our exercise books had no adverts – just the Rukunegara and probably the school song 🙂
Did you own…
…a rotary dial phone? I remember having one at home….and I also remember how my small fingers kept getting stuck in those number holes 🙂 Well, here’s some nostalgia for you (see picture below).
June 2017
Cinema Flyer, 1938
Today, if you want to know the schedule at your local cinema all you need is the Internet 😉 Yes, everything is available online now – you can even buy your tickets online too!
What about back then in the 1930s? Here we have a flyer from 1938, advertising movies showing at the Sun Cinema and Isis Theatre.
Exhibition at Anderson School
Special thanks to Oon Eng Hock (and SK) for sharing the above photograph with us. Anderson Alumni might remember this special day…when the then Education Minister – En Mohd Khir Johari – (extreme right) visited the school for this exhibition. Oon is standing behind En Khir, and behind Oon is none other than the Principal – Mr Tagar Singh.
“I want to ride my bicycle!”
Here’s something cute for you, hope it chases away your Monday blues!
Have car, will travel!
We thank Graham Barton for sharing this picture with us. He was once part of the 12th Infantry Regiment Workshop REME, at Gunung Panjang, Ipoh.
Is that a ‘Beetle’ in the background, or do my eyes deceive me?
May 2017
“Baby, you can drive my car”
Car-lovers, can you guess what type of car this is?
Cheers to our brave Fire-fighters!
In 1893, an actual Merryweather was ordered from London and delivered to Ipoh. Horse-drawn and manned by Sikhs (under Police supervision), it was capable of pumping up to 600 gallons of water per minute. It was also said to be the fastest vehicle (at that time) in the country!
What does a Merryweather look like? Well, here’s a toy model to give you an idea:
In case you didn’t know, yesterday – 4th May – was Hari Bomba (Fire-fighters’ Day). Kudos to all our Heroes!!
April 2017
‘Dancing Your Blues Away’
Calling all you nimble-feet folk! How many of you remember the Celestial Dance Bar?
March 2017
Remember Ralph Kesselring?
We thank Ann Kesselring Hamon for this photo – taken at an alumni gathering of ACS boys. The gentleman in the centre is none other than Ralph Kesselring! According to Ann, this photograph was taken in 1956. Do you recognise some of the faces?
Cow & Gate?
How many of you have heard of Cow & Gate? Apparently it was started by two brothers from Surrey, UK.
Papan Town?
This picture was taken off Heritage Asia magazine, back in 2004. The description reads as:
Perak, as in many parts of Malaysia, has a large number of pre-war and colonial shop-houses. Distinctive in their decorative sturdy look with sculpted openings and large columns guarding the shaded five-foot ways, they were the mainstay of retail business then. Somehow, new shop houses lack that character. Quiet towns like Papan still have these old edifices.
So, is this a photo of Papan? Or, could it be another town in Perak….?
February 2017
Looking For A Former Room Mate
Ian Horgan is trying to reconnect with a long lost mate, whom he shared a room with back in 1979/1980 in England. Here’s what he wrote:
I am writing to you to ask for your help in finding an old room-mate, Alan Tan. I shared a room with Alan back in 1979/80 in a house in Kingsland Road, Birkenhead, England. At the time Alan was attending Birkenhead Technical College studying for his ‘A’ levels. Although many years have passed Alan is not forgotten. I am a member of a WhatsApp group (15 members) who met each other at that time while studying, and we would love to rekindle our friendship with Alan. I am from England (now living in Australia) and the others are from Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, Thailand and Hong Kong. I kept in touch with Alan for a while after he returned to Malaysia in 1980 but we lost contact. Unfortunately, the Internet was non-existent then.Alan Tan – I think his initials were TC, so could be Alan TC Tan.Last known address in Ipoh was 4 Jalan Mui Fah, Victoria Park.Studied ‘A’ levels at Birkenhead Technical College in England. I think his ‘A’ level subjects were Maths, Physics and Chemistry.Lived in Kingsland Road, next to the college. The landlady’s name was Mary.Liked Tae Kwon Do.Worked as a waiter in a restaurant many miles away – I think the restaurant was in Whitchurch.Here’s a photo of Alan and me:This one includes Mary and some of the students that lived in house. I have circled Alan:
I would be eternally grateful for any help in tracing my old friend. I’m hoping there is somebody (relative/friend) in Ipoh that could put me in direct contact with Alan, wherever he may be.Kind regards,Ian
Do you recognise Alan Tan? If you’re Alan, and you’re reading this, do leave a comment (or two); Ian would love to hear from you again!
January 2017
Chopsticks!
“Commonly made of bamboo, plastic, wood or stainless steel, Chopsticks were first used by the Chinese. This later spread to various parts of the world through cultural influence or through Chinese immigrant communities. How does one use chopsticks? Well, the lower chopstick is stationary, and rests at the base of the thumb, and between the ring finger and middle finger. The second chopstick is held like a pencil, using the tips of the thumb, index finger, and middle finger, and it is moved while eating, to pull food into the grasp of the chopsticks….” (Wikipedia)
Some of you may have seen this video, but since we’re still in the CNY mood…I thought I’d share it again with you!
Birthday Party at Kam Loong
This photograph – from Sybil de ROQUIGNY-IRAGNE – was taken at Kam Loong Restaurant, back in the 1960s. They were celebrating a relative’s 60th birthday!
Yes, the Year of the Rooster is upon us…and some of us are already in a party-mood 🙂
Does anyone have a funny story to share…about something that happened during a party?
A Different View of a Dredge
We thank Pat Price (from Sydney) for this picture. Price was formerly an engineer with Anglo-Oriental. This dredge was said to be in Kampong Gajah, Perak. Perhaps you’re wondering why the dredge buckets are all lined up on the extreme right. Back in 1976, one of the dredge buckets broke; hence, fixing the problem was quite a task for the engineers and the coolies.
Did you know…?
…that the YMCA Ipoh building used to be along Cockman Street? Check out the pictures below 🙂
Apparently, this premise later became the home for Lido Cinema. Does anyone remember this building?
Here’s a group photo of the YMCA members, taken outside the Cockman Street building.
St Michael’s Institution – Form 6, 1959
I’m sure everyone recognises the gentleman seated in the middle. 🙂
Yes, he’s none other than Rev Bro Vincent Corkery – of St Michael’s Institution. The photograph was part of a tribute to Bro Vincent, congratulating him on his award (he was conferred the title ‘Dato’ back in 2014). In this same tribute were some of the names of the students:
Sivagami; Askari Badsha; Winnie Te; Khoo Kay Hock; Beatrice; Mary Ann; Lim Jo Hock; John Wai; Raja; and Telk Raj Sharma
SMI Alumni, are you in the photograph? Or, perhaps you know someone in the photograph?
(Note: This photograph was scanned off an article, hence the poor quality)
December 2016
The way it used to be…
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
The ‘Other Festival’ is back!
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!
Ipoh, 1977
We took this off the 1977 edition of the AMCIAN – the Ave Maria Convent school magazine. This is an aerial view of the school building and the surroundings.
We’ve had a lot of feedback from SMI, ACS, NTPS, and even HIJ Convent Alumni over the years…but not much from the Ave Maria Convent girls. So, here’s a shout-out to you young ladies out there!
October 2016
Remember ‘Lian Seng Fatt’ ?
This sundry shop was once at 40 Jalan Lee Kwee Foh, in Canning Garden. But that was back in the 1960s – 1970s. This shop was later taken over by a book store.
Does anyone remember the sundry shop…or even the owner?