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TAIPING Patron YBhg. Dato’ Haji Abd Rahim bin Md.Ariff President, Taiping Municipal Council Advisors Borhan bin Abdul Halim Secretary, Taiping Municipal Council Dr. Kevin Lazarus Director, Zoo Taiping & Night Safari Chief Editor Hanim binti Ramly Head of Corporate, Public Relations and Tourism, Taiping Municipal Council Editors Syahrulnizam bin Baharom Rizal Ismara bin Ismail Hasmi bin Hassanuddin Contributors Ami Faizul bin Yaacob Efandi bin Saari Musnarizal bin Abd Manap Marketing & Circulation Siti Idayu binti Md Hasan Nurul Huda binti Shamsuddin Nur Farhana binti Ahmad Lilyyana binti Roslan For more information about Nurul Fatin binti Mat Zaki Tourism in Taiping, please visit the Azyani binti Aripin Nurul Izzati binti Md Akhir Taiping Municipal Gallery at the Erfan Syazani bin Ismail Rani following address : Karam Kaur a/p Prem Singh Taiping Municipal Gallery Finance & Procurement PWD 105, Jalan Stesen, 34000 Taiping, Perak. Rosnita binti Ramli +(6)05 8010832 / +(6)05 8048437 Ahmad Firdaus bin Mustuki +(6)05 8010835 Designer [email protected] Muhammad Afiq bin Mohd Zaki Published & Printed by: Bluedale Publishing Sdn. Bhd. (769278-W) No.31-2, Block F2, Level 2, Jalan PJU 1/42A, Dataran Prima 47301 Petaling Jaya Selangor Darul Ehsan www.bluedale.com.my [email protected] +(6)03-7886 9219 © Bluedale Group of Companies Sdn. Bhd. In Collaboration with All rights reserved. No re-production, copy or transmission YBA Print Sdn Bhd (968296W) of this publication may be made without written permission. No. 28, Jalan 12/152, No contents of this publication may be re-produced, copied Taman Perindustrian OUG, Batu 6/5, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without Jalan Puchong, 58200 Kuala Lumpur the prior written permission of the publisher. Any person [email protected] involved in unauthorized acts in relation to this publication may be liable to criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all the information, the publisher can accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions. Find us on Facebook For all enquiries related to advertising please www.facebook.com/Taipingtheguide contact us at [email protected] & Follow us at Twitter (@TaipingTheGuide)

TAIPING CONTENTS Content List Introduction 4 Foreword 6 Message 7 Taiping - Preface 10 Taiping Town Today 12 History Taiping - In the view 14 of Stella Martin History of Taiping 17 Taiping’s Many Firsts 19 Sejarah Sejarah Taiping 24 Perkara-Perkara Pertama Taiping 26 Special Feature 31 Sightseeing 37 Taiping Heritage Trail 39 Sights & Attractions 56 Mode of Transport 66 Makan Angin 68 Jejak Warisan Taiping 70 Tarikan Utama Taiping 76 Arts & Crafts 94

Eating Out 96 Food Haven 96 Shopping 102 Accommodation 108 Transportation 111 Essential Info 117 Map 126

Useful Phrases South China Sea INTRODUCTION PETA MALAYSIA Philippines Perlis Kedah Penang Sabah Kelantan Terengganu KAMUNTING TAIPING Brunei Perak SIMPANG Pahang Selangor Kuala Lumpur Putrajaya Sarawak Negeri Sembilan Melaka Johor Indonesia Indonesia 0 100 200km

Useful Phrases South China Sea PETA MALAYSIA INTRODUCTION Philippines Perlis Kedah Penang Sabah Kelantan Terengganu KAMUNTING TAIPING Brunei Perak SIMPANG Pahang Selangor Kuala Lumpur Putrajaya Sarawak Negeri Sembilan Melaka Johor Indonesia Indonesia 0 100 200km 5

Foreword From COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN FOR TOURISM , ART, CULTURE, COMMUNICATION AND MULTIMEDIA Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh, Salam 1 Malaysia dan Salam Perak Aman Jaya Publishing Taiping The Guide is a very dynamic and admirable effort to add value to tourism activities and to promote tourism in Taiping. I want to congratulate The Taiping Municipal Council for successfully producing this guide book, with collaboration and support from players in the tourism industry in Taiping as well as various other agencies. This tourism guide book is the first to be produced in Perak and the Taiping Municipal Council is the first local authority in Malaysia to do so. The Perak State government truly appreciates the effort and cooperation shown and hopes that Taiping The Guide will become a very good reference book which will facilitate visitors and tourist during their visit to Fascinating Taiping and enable them to become very familiar with this lovely town. Perak has been blessed with wonderful and beautiful nature, heritage, culture and fantastic food. Taiping, a town in Larut Matang, one of the districts of the twelve districts in the state is fortunate to have all of these. Lastly, I sincerely hope the tourism industry in Perak and in Taiping specifically will continue to grow and prosper and become one of the main contributors to the economy in Perak as well as Malaysia. Thank you. (YB. DATO’ NOLEE ASHILIN BINTI MOHAMMED RADZI) 6

Message From THE PRESIDENT, TAIPING MUNICIPAL COUNCIL YBhg. Dato’ Haji Abd Rahim bin Md. Ariff Taiping is the main town in the district of Larut Matang, a district located in the state of Perak, Peninsular Malaysia. Taiping was developed within mining activities in the 19th century. In the early 1870s, the British intervened and took control of the town. The presence of the British in Taiping opened up opportunities for the entry of many international communities into this town. Taiping has more than 10 popular tourist attractions such as Eco and Agro products of Batu Kurau, Zoo Taiping & Night Safari, Taiping Lake Gardens, Maxwell Hill (Bukit Larut), Matang Mangrove Forest, Perak Museum, Taiping Heritage Trail, Kampung Dew Fireflies and Homestay Bukit Gantang. The main attractions are Zoo Taiping with Night Safari and Taiping Lake Gardens as they are capable of attracting visitors and tourists. Visitors and tourists come to Taiping for three reasons : • The beauty of nature • The elements of heritage • A variety of food at reasonable prices. Taiping is endowed with a beautiful natural geography. Tourism products in Taiping include tropical rain forest at a height of 1,400 meters above sea level in Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill) up to Kuala Sepetang which is a mangrove swamp rich with coastal activities. The Mangrove trees are managed expertly and recognized as the best managed Mangrove Forest in the world. Taiping is visited by tourists from countries in Asia such as China, Japan, Korea and Singapore. However, now more tourists from European countries have started visiting Taiping. 7

Taiping has continued its effort to preserve many heritage buildings which give the town its unique feel. The town made a maintenance plan and has implemented it to maintain Taiping as a heritage town. The preservation of nature is also taken into consideration and added as a supportive element. With the various development plans and programs, the federal and state governments support Taiping which has an infinite potential to become a major tourist town, especially for international tourists. Taiping’s best assets are Taiping's heritage, nature and diversity of food delicacies. In addition, visitors and tourists come to enjoy the atmosphere of Taiping town which is not busy and crowded, but quiet and leisurely. They also like a variety of interesting characteristics from various races and ethnicities. All the uniqueness in Taiping is an attractive package that can make visitors and tourists want to extend their stay in Taiping and want to visit again. It is undeniable that in recent years Taiping needs strong support from the tourism industry to further stimulate economic growth. The uniqueness in Taiping town has the potential to attract tourists and thus uplift the economy of the town. Recognizing this, the Municipal Council has done a lot to promote and market Taiping’s tourism products internationally through various means. Among the efforts undertaken are to advertise Taiping tourism products on the TV screen and Electronic Flight Information Display System (E-FIDS) at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Another method is to work with bloggers and magazine writers from abroad to have articles published in their countries. In addition to this, the Municipal Council also hosts special guests from out of state to visit Taiping tourism products so that they can get a lot of information about Taiping and share this to the communities in their countries. Taiping city is also not lagging behind in promoting Taiping in the social media community which is becoming a trend now. However, a more consistent effort is through memberships in TPO (Tourism Promotions Organization) and other international organizations such as South East Asian Zoos and Aquariums & Association (SEAZA). Through the networks of these organizations, the city hopes to have more opportunities to exposure the various tourism resources in Taiping internationally. Currently we are focusing on the development of two new tourism products that are the Taiping Heritage Trail and Perak Botanical Garden. The Taiping Heritage Trail project has been completed and now the town plans to train all product owners in the route concerned about their roles and responsibilities in this project. Meanwhile, the Perak Botanical Garden project implementation has just started and is expected to take about 5 years before completion. At the same time, The Municipal Council will continue to streamline planning to upgrade three other famous tourism products namely Zoo Taiping & Night Safari, Taiping Lake Gardens and Bukit Larut. For these projects, The Municipal Council will work together with various agencies in the state and federal levels such as the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA), Tourism Malaysia, Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia, Tourism Perak and others. Through the close cooperation with various agencies, the Taiping tourism industry is expected to be more robust and dynamic. 8

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History INTRODUCTION T aiping - Preface “ of all buildings at the advice of impressive list includes the first The architectural pretensions railway, the first telegraph office, the Mr Swettenham shows a very great improvement in taste on first specifically designed museum building and the first fire brigade, to those which were erected in the name but a few. preceding years, and ……. are equal in beauty of design and excellence Taiping became the town of ” of workmanship to anything to be everlasting peace‟ by force of found in any older Colony. circumstance. It was born out of Sir Hugh Low, the bloody struggle and strife of communal war over the tin mining Resident of Perak 1884-1899 area that led to its formation to commemorate the end of the Larut Taiping derives its name from Wars in 1874 and as a neutral zone for the warring parties. Its history can Chinese, Tai-Peng which means be traced back to the beginning of tin Everlasting Peace. In its early mining in Larut around 1844. years, Taiping was one of the tin mining capitals of the world. Unlike other mining towns, Taiping evolved into a place where scenic beauty Abstract from Taiping Life and Soul and urban charm came together so harmoniously that it has the appearance of a natural paradise. Indeed, it is blessed with some of the best environmental settings in the land with lakes, forests, hills and waterfalls. Being the wettest area in Peninsular Malaysia, the town is relatively cool and refreshing. Taiping, with Bukit Larut (formerly known as Maxwell Hill) as its backdrop, offers some of the most awe-inspiring scenery unparalleled by many other towns. Taiping has always been a place of many firsts. As the oldest city in the former Federated Malay States, it is the starting point of British intervention in the administration of the Malay States. Besides being the first mining centre, Taiping’s Tin mines at Larut British Malaya by Sir Frank Swettenham, 19 July 1906 10

History T AIPING - The Larut Wars A series of wars broke out among HISTORY the miners over the control of the waterways which were crucial to tin mining activities. Known as the Larut Early Era : 1840-1875 Wars, it was one of the main reasons that led to the intervention of the British in the administration of the INTRODUCTION Malay States. The Larut Wars were fought between two rival migrant Chinese groups called Ghee Hin and Hai San. To put an end to the warring, the Governor of the Straits Settlements negotiated the Pangkor Treaty which was ratified on 20th January 1874. The rival groups then laid down their arms and established Taiping. Taiping was formally established on 20th January 1874 with the formation of the first British Administration Centre for the Federated Malay Long Jaafar States and marked a new era in the nation’s history. It was the early 1840s when Long Jaafar discovered tin, immediately ushering in the beginning of a significant phase in the history of the Larut District. The first tin mine was believed to have been located in Klian Pauh (where the Taiping Prison now stands). By 1884, Long Jaafar had brought in the first group of Chinese miners to work in Che Ngah Ibrahim with his two sons, Wan Muhammad the mines. By 1863, his son, Ngah Isa and Wan Mohd Nasir Ibrahim had established a modern system of administration including a police station (balai) with Jemandar (corresponding to a lieutenant) in charge of a police force, a judge, a magistrate, a treasurer and a clerk. Long Jaafar has been credited with the discovery of tin in Larut in 1848. According to legend, Long Jaafar had an elephant named Larut. One day, the elephant went missing and when the elephant was eventually found three days later, tin ore was embedded in the mud that was on the elephant’s legs. 11

History INTRODUCTION British Era : 1875-1937 widened to seventy feet and the cross Tin mining led to Taiping being Tin mining circa 1880 made the state administrative streets to sixty feet. The streets were capital. By 1879, Taiping was a planted with trees as well, leading to the Taiping Lake Garden. thriving town, laid in a gridiron pattern with a main street about a The importance of Taiping as a mining mile long and new buildings that capital is best illustrated by the housed the treasury, army barracks, completion of the first railway track a hospital, a powder magazine, from Taiping to Port Weld in 1885. The a parade ground (Esplanade), a first Public Office was constructed in government storehouse, a large jail the 1880s to better administer the with bungalows for officers, and the growth of Taiping, a model city for British Residency. other British-administered towns in The development of Taiping ran the Malay States. parallel with the development of town planning in Britain. The Taiping Sanitary Board (today known as Taiping Municipal Council-MPT) was formed in 1874 to manage issues related to fresh water and sanitation. After the great fire in 1880, a rectangular gridiron‟ planning layout with two-storey brick shop houses was laid with proper drainage and sanitation. The main streets were The British Residency – built in 1877 12

INTRODUCTION AIPING TTown Today After independence, the new administration brought about changes that altered the town’s skyline drastically. After the emergency, new settlements were erected around the town centre. These included Pokok Assam, Assam Scenery of sunrise from Bukit Larut Kumbang and Aulong. The Taiping Financially Autonomous Local Authority was established in 1956 to replace the City Board formed by the British in 1930. It was the town’s governing council until the formation of the Taiping Municipal Council in 1976. New development emerged forming new landmarks in the era after Merdeka. The Lake Gardens are not the only direct consequence of the tin mines. More than a century later, this Public office - today legacy also influenced the mapping of a tranquil blueprint‟ for modern Taiping. Colonial structures, public gardens and houses of worship line Taiping’s wide streets. They are part of a list of many firsts‟ that Taiping can still proudly exhibit and owes its reputation to as the pioneering site and source of historic landmarks. A typical townhouse 13

HISTORY T AIPING In The View of Stella Martin 1. Place of peace Rushing between Cameron Highlands and Penang, many tourists miss out on Taiping. Originally called Larut, it grew following the discovery of tin ore in 1840. However, this prosperity also sparked civil wars that raged until the British intervened in 1874. To commemorate the signing of a treaty, the town’s name was changed to Tai-Peng, which means Eternal Peace. Soon afterwards, the British chose the town as their administrative centre. Many gems of Victorian architecture can be visited. Just pick up a Heritage Trail brochure from the tourist office. Taiping proudly boasts a total of 33 firsts for Malaysia. It has the country’s first town, railway, post office, hospital, museum, golf course, police station, prison, zoo, airfield and war cemetery for Allied troops perished in World War II. 2. Make It To The Lake Providing a tranquil heart to the city, the 64ha Lake Gardens was created when an abandoned tin mine was flooded in the 1880s. It was the first public garden in Malaya. Ancient rain trees lined the lakes. Landscaped with bridges, islands, and pagodas. There are paddle boats, walking tracks, cycling lanes, a playground and roller-skating rink. Monkeys and bird species like king-fishers, parakeets and horn-bills can be seen in the gardens. 3. Walk With The Animals As a visitor to Malaysia’s premier national park Taman Negara will at- test that it is difficult to find the country’s intriguing wildlife in its dense rainforest. Zoo Taiping offers the chance to see many of these animals in spacious enclosures spread over 14ha within the Lake Gardens. Although it also displays African, Amazonian and Australian fauna, the highlights 14

In The View of Stella Martin are Malaysia’s less familiar natives. For a reasonable fee you may be able to enter the Rainforest Experience enclosure. Barking deer or a binturong sneezing on a HISTORY branch is a sight to behold. Although it’s not particularly feline in demeanour, this shaggy, dopey-looking beast is the largest civet cat. Encounters with porcupines occur fairly often. Stay away from them since they can be aggressive when perturbed. Besides that, spot the slow loris, black and white tapirs and the mouse deer (the world’s smallest hoofed animal). Watch the gibbons swinging over their personal island. A spectacular sight worth waiting when a tiger swims across an unfenced pond. Even though it cannot climb the bank but its steady gaze is unnerving. 4. The Night Has Eyes Since many animals in the zoo are nocturnal and idle by day, the gates are reopened at 8pm for a night safari. Lighting that mimics moonlight allows visitors to observe the animals without disturbing them. We will come across the binturong munching on fruit hanging upside down from a branch and slow loris on the move. Besides that, you can see the sun bear with distinctive pale crescent on it chest and snout stands out from its black fur. Small cats are the most exciting to look at with their exquisite prowling. 5. Hitting The Heights Seeking a retreat from the tropical heat of the lowlands, the British established the country’s first hill station at Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill), next to the Lake Gardens, in 1879. In the olden days, the steep climb to the 1250m summit was a rough trek with senior officers being carried on sedan chair. However, now getting there is half of the fun. Private cars are prohibited and motorised access is restricted to government-owned vehicles (tickets are inexpensive), which ascend the zigzag bends with ease. It takes about 30 minutes to climb the 10km hill slope. This hill station preserves much of the atmosphere of yesteryear with colonial- style bungalows and euphoric flower gardens. 6. Firefly Fantasy In the vicinity of Kampung Dew by the banks of the Sepetang River one of nature’s greatest spectacles when fireflies in the mangroves light up for an evening of primal seduction. These marvellous bio-luminescent beetles perform on increasingly rare berembang trees. The males synchronise their flashing until entire trees are twinkling like Christmas tree. 7. Managing The Mangroves Kuala Sepetang, formerly known as Port Weld is well worth the 15km trip from Taiping. From the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve education centre, follow the boardwalk through coastal forest and you may even be invited to plant a few trees by the local’s nature preservation society. The northern end of the reserve, Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary, boasts more 15

In The View of Stella Martin HISTORY than 160 species. With strict controls on the areas cleared and replanting, the mangroves are harvested sustainably for charcoal production. Kuala Sepetang is important for fish farming and cockle-harvesting centres. The riverbanks are lined with busy seafood restaurants. Take a relaxing cruise on the river. You might be lucky enough to see eagles and Indo- Pacific humpback dolphins. 8. Village People Batu Kurau is situated 30 km from Taiping, it welcomes visitors seeking the relative tranquillity of a traditional kampung (Malay village). We are led to the house of one of the many craftsmen of the kampung. They include a young man who weaves mats or screens using traditional methods and sells them online. We then get swept into the celebration since it’s Aidilfitri, the month of returning to normal after Ramadan and villagers will be taking turns to host the celebration. For visitors wishing to spend a longer time, Kurau Stone offers reasonable priced chalets with fishing and other activities. 9. Town Treats Antong Cafe claims to be Malaysia’s oldest coffee factory and in its seventh decade, it still cooks the beans in wood-fired ovens and fries them in melted sugar mixture. Malaysians do like their coffee sweet. Visitors observe the process then sample the product which includes innovative combination with durian. Don’t miss the restaurant devoted to cendol, lemang (mix of coconut milk poured into lengths of bamboo and cooked for three hours). On Friday or Saturday nights , head for the Cross Street Bazaar, a market catering to locals. Women cluster around stalls that specialize in headgear, while men are drawn to cars kitted out with flashing lights, speakers and video screens. 10. Taiping Heritage Trail THE CONCEPT OF HERITAGE TRAILS aims to expose and promote places that has heritage elements. It also promotes parts of Taiping that are naturally preserved. Heritage Trails could also improve the image of Taiping Heritage City. The uniqueness of Taiping city can be captured and strengthened. The Heritage Trail only covers a small part of Taiping so it requires careful planning to ensure tourists can visit as many places as possible in a limited time frame. The Heritage Trail has a special route that has been developed around unique buildings with the heritage sites in the city center. 16

History of Taiping HISTORY T aiping functioned as the capital of Perak since 1873 till 1937. The British government had developed Taiping by erecting some important buildings such as the bursary office, police station, hospitals, weaponry warehouse and government store. In 1883, the total population was 6,000 people with the majority made up of Chinese and a small group of Indians (Chetty). Since 1883, Taiping has developed rapidly with buildings such as government offices, a justice Hall, a reading room and a library. Communication and accessibility were also developed. Roads that connected Taiping and Parit Buntar were built in 1883 together with the Telegraph lines that was installed along the way. Train rails were also built to connect Taiping and Port Weld. On February 12 , 1885, the first commercial train service was introduced for public th transportation connecting Port Weld and Taiping. At the time, Port Weld was well-known for its role as a port bustling with trading activities between Taiping and Pulau Pinang, Ulu Perak, Kinta as well as Teluk Anson (Teluk Intan). Meanwhile, Hospital Ying Wah was built for the poor at the time. A newspaper in Tamil language was published by Syed Abdul Hassan Ibni Burhan who was an Arabian. At the same time, he also published a Malay newspaper called Sri Perak and another one 3 years after, called Jajahan Melayu. An English newspaper, Perak Pioneer, was published in July 4 , 1894. th 17

History of Taiping Police force was established with the Punjabis and Pathans as the officers. Meanwhile, an army force called Malay States Guides was also established IHISTORY around the same time. Taiping had an English school (the first in Malaya) built in Kamunting. It was built and opened by Sir Hugh Low in 1878. It was known as Central School and was attended by the children of tin mine owners and workers. Other schools were built in 1877 especially girls school. In 1902, one of the schools was named Treacher’s Girl School in honor of the services given by Mrs. Treacher – the wife of Perak Resident, William Treacher. A few years later, quite a number of schools were established while the Central School was moved to a new building and renamed King Edward VII School. Even though Taiping was rapidly developing, World War II changed the game. The capital of Perak was shifted to Ipoh as it is located at the center of the state to make administration matters easier. Regardless, the buildings in Taiping meant for its former role of being the capital of the state were retained and used for other beneficial purposes. Planning and Development of Taiping Taiping is one of the earliest towns developed in West Malaysia during the 1800’s. This town was established to accommodate the growth of tin mining. It also functioned as the British administration office before Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur were developed. This is proven true as the city has around 30 historical sites which are also the firsts in West Malaysia. Development aspects for important historical trails include: • History of the Town Planning and Development • History of Economics Development • History of Larut Taiping Town was an administrative center for Perak. It’s complete with the essential components that make up a town. These include administrative offices as well as centers for education, recreation, places of worship, business, safety and civic center. 18

Taiping’s Many Firsts S MANY HISTORY ‘ FIRSTS 1. 1873 – Captain Speedy’s Bungalow Built by Mentri Ngah Ibrahim for Captain Speedy in 1873, located at the junction lot of Mentri Street, Matang. One of two surviving examples of colonial style houses. 2. 1874 – Taiping Township The first town in Malaya to have official and formal administration centres. 3. 1874 – Treasury & Audit Office Used to be the Treasury and Perak Audit Office & the Government Saving Bank (Bank Simpanan Kerajaan), the first government bank in the Malay States. The first ever steel safe in the Malay States, a made-in-England Chubb brand, was installed here. 4. 1875 – Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church Originally a simple wooden structured erected up the hill. New structure built in 1880 and completed in less than 4 years. Became the first Roman Catholic Church and Parish in Taiping 5. 1875 – Matang Headman’s Hall Built as the Headman’s Hall or Balai Penghulu for Larut, it is an administrative office and court of Penghulus to deal with petty civil matters. Undergone several renovations to accommodate to current needs. 6. 1875 – Assistant Resident’s Residence Used to be the Assistant British Resident’s residence and occupied by Captain T.C.S Speedy and later by Sir Edward Maxwell. Today, it is the official residence of the Larut, Matang and Selama District Officer. 19

Taiping’s Many Firsts 7. 1875 – The Esplanade The Esplanade, also known as Padang HISTORY was built in 1890 by Colonel Robert S. F. Walker, the Commandant of the Police and Military Force. It had barracks, club house and a church. Used as a parade field for marching and processions as well as a cricket field. 8. 1877 – Telegraph Office A double-storey brick structure, built in 1885. The first inland telegraph service was introduced in 1876. The postal service was then added to the duties of the telegraph office, enabling telegrams to be issued as a means of communication between Matang and Taiping. 9. 1877 – Larut Municipal Taiping was established in 1874. By 1882, Taiping had become a pretty well laid-out town. The formal town government of Municipal Rules, Larut for the welfare and development of the town was based on methods and organization obtained from the United Kingdom at that time. Hugh Low set up some form of administration for the health and public services of the town. A Municipal Regulation was in force from 1885 and 1888 passed by the State Council. A form of Sanitary Board on the lines of the former administration was established by Frank Swettenham in 1892. 10. 1879 – British Officers’ Mess Built around 1907 as the British Officers Mess for the Malay States Guides armed force. the first Officers Mess for the Para- military in the Malay States. Located near the British army unit’s headquarters, serving as a rest house and for hosting social events held by the armed forced officers. Now, the building is known as Wisma Perwira Batalion Kesembilan Rejimen Renjer DiRaja. 11. 1879 – Maxwell Hill In the early 1884, the British established a hill retreat encased within tropical rainforest with bungalows for their officers at the peak of the hill. Most of these bungalows are still preserved until today. Rising 1,036 m above sea level, Bukit Larut is the oldest and smallest hill resort in Malaysia. Today, Bukit Larut still remains as a hill resort. 12. 1879 – Taiping Gaol Taiping Prison was originally named Perak Prison and also known as Taiping Gaol. In 1879, it was the largest prison complex in the Malay Peninsula. Officially gazetted as Penjara Taiping in 1992. 20

Taiping’s Many Firsts 13. 1879 – Town Rest House Originally a single storey timber building and served as the governor’s residence, built in 1879. The first rest house in the Malay States. HISTORY 14. 1881 – New Public Office Designed with Victorian Neo-classical architecture, built in 1897. Today, the building houses the Land & District Office of Larut Matang. 15. 1881 – Town Police Station / Clock Tower Once known as The Fort, it is an iconic landmark of Taiping. The original timber building was built in 1881 and rebuilt with bricks in 1891. Between the year 1908 and 1950, the clock tower building was used as the Town Police Station and also functioned as a fire station. 16. 1883 – All Saints Church Designed by the Australian architect, Mr. George A. Lefroy, and is constructed in Gothic design mainly of timber. The church, which survived the Japanese occupation, has retained many original features such as the east window of stained glass, the wooden pews and many commemorative brass plaques. Gazetted as a National Heritage Building in 2012 and it is still used as a place of Christian worship by the Anglican Church. 17. 1883 – King Edward School VII School / Central Sentral Built in 1883, it is the second English medium school in Taiping, originally known as Central School.Renamed as King Edward VII School, in conjunction with the coronation of King Edward VII. 18. 1884 – Taiping Market Malaysia’s best preserved example of a 19th century timber structure. The second market building (dry market) was built in 1885 and located at Kota Road (Jalan Kota). 19. 1884 – Taiping Lake Garden Lies on a flat ground right at the foot of the Larut Hills and is known as the Public Garden. The lake is fringed with the same Rain Trees which still stands today. 21

Taiping’s Many Firsts 20. 1884 – Taiping Railway Station The first modern railway line in Malay Peninsula was introduced in Taiping. The original railway station was built by the Federated Malay States Railway HISTORY (FMSR). The original site for the railway station was at King Edward VII (I) Primary School. In 1910, the railway station was relocated and the tracks were extended to the north. 21. 1885 - Perak State Railway Building and Larut Railway Building A combination of old and new architectural styles of two storey timber structure built in 1885 with new addition of a two storey brick building. 22. 1886 – Perak Museum The Perak Museum, built in 1883, is the first museum in Malaysia. This unique building features the designs of the Moorish combined with Neo classical and Victorian architecture. Houses several rare collections such as ethnology artefacts, zoology specimens, ceramics and interesting collections from the Orang Asli Community. 23. 1886 – Taiping Golf Course The first golf course in Malaysia. 24. 1887 – Kwang Tung Association Built by the Kwangtung Association branch in Taiping in 1887 to protect the welfare of members of the association. Kapitan Keng Cheng Kwee was the main leader to lead the construction of the association’s building. 25. 1888 – Independence Memorial Library The original building at this site was constructed in 1882 and used as a reading room for the British Government Officers. The current Victorian building that replaced the reading room was built by the British government in 1912. Currently, this building houses the public library known as the Independence Memorial Library. 26. 1889 –Treacher Methodist School The first girls’ school established by the Perak Government in 1889 and known as Government Girls’ School, with an enrolment of 8 pupils. The Methodist later took over the school and renamed it Lady Treacher Girls’ School. 27. 1891 – Topo and Survey Office The former Topo and Survey Office building, known for its Anglo-Indian architecture, is a restored former government office. The building, completed in 1891, was designed by G. A. Lefroy, an architect and chief surveyor from Australia. Today, this building is used to house the Taiping Municipal Gallery. This double storey building is the best example of timber and brick building architecture in Taiping. 22

Taiping’s Many Firsts 28. 1899 – Ceylon Association The Ceylonese founded the Victoria Reading Room at Main Road in 1898. Later to be known as Ceylon Association in 1899, this is the first Association for the Ceylonese established in the Malay States. HISTORY 29. 1902 – Matang Mangrove Forest The State forest of Matang District in Peninsular Malaysia is one of the few existing mangrove forest schemes which have been monitored since early colonial times. Today, mangrove silviculture practiced in the Matang Forestry scheme is the best example of good management and noted as the leading expert in mangrove forestry technique. 30. 1930 – Tekah Aerodome The landing ground is at an average height of 45 ft. above sea level, lies two miles to the north- west of the Town Hall at a site known as Tekka which has been acclaimed to be one of the best landing grounds east of Suez by Sir Phillip Sassoon and other experts. Tekah aerodrome is the first airfield in the Malay Peninsula. 31. 1937 – Silver Jubilee Jetty Built in 1937, the Silver Jubilee Jetty is a colonial-design jetty constructed using a combination of public and local community funds. This is the first jetty to be built in the Malay Peninsula to commemorate the Silver Jubilee Celebration of the reign of King George V in England. 32. 1947 – Commonwealth War Memorial Grave Built in 1947, The Taiping War Memorial is the burial place of Allied soldiers who died during the World War II. The first and largest War Memorial in Malaysia. 33. 2003 – Taiping Night Safari The Taiping Night Safari is a first of its kind in Malaysia which was inaugurated by DYMM Sultan Azlan Shah Muhibbuddin Shah in June 2003. In an effort to maintain the experience of a natural environment, the Taiping Night Safari attempts to display nocturnal animals in natural looking settings illuminated by the moonlight like lighting. 23

Sejarah Taiping PENGENALAN B andar Taiping terletak di daerah Larut Matang, sebuah jajahan utara negeri Perak Darul Ridzuan. Nama asal Taiping ialah Klian Pauh. Perkataan Taiping berasal dari perkataan Cina, Tai Peng yang bermaksud Aman Selamanya. Perkataan ini lahir selepas tamatnya beberapa Perang Larut antara puak kongsi gelap Hai San dan Ghee Hin. Taiping telah diterokai oleh seorang Pembesar Melayu Toh Paduka Setia Long Jaafar pada tahun 1880. Penemuan bijih timah di kawasan Klian Pauh, membolehkan Long Jaafar memberi galakan supaya orang-orang Melayu membuka lombong bijih timah. Perusahaan ini telah berjaya memberi hasil yang lumayan. Long Jaafar kemudiannya mengimport buruh-buruh Cina dari Pulau Pinang. Pada tahun 1850, Sultan Abdullah Muhammad Shah II telah menganugerahkan Larut (Taiping) kepada Long Jaafar untuk ditadbir dan dimajukan serta mengurniakan gelaran Orang Besar Jajahan. Long Jaafar meninggal dunia pada tahun 1857 dan anak keduanya yang bernama Ngah Ibrahim telah dilantik untuk mewarisi kepimpinan di jajahan bapanya. Perusahaan lombong bijih timah di Permatang menjadi semakin pesat. Sebagai balasan Ngah Ibrahim telah dianugerahkan gelaran Menteri. Puak Hai San dan Ghee Hin merupakan kumpulan perlombong terawal yang saling bermusuhan dan sering bertelagah khususnya mengenai bekalan air dan merebut kawasan perlombongan. Dalam tahun 1861, puak Hai San telah menghalau keluar puak Ghee Hin dari Larut. Ekoran daripada pergaduhan ini berlakunya beberapa siri pergaduhan yang berlarutan. Pergaduhan yang kedua pada tahun 1865 dan ketiga pada tahun 1871 telah menyebabkan campur tangan Inggeris dan membawa kepada termeterinya Perjanjian Pangkor. Taiping berfungsi sebagai ibu negeri Perak mulai tahun 1873 sehingga tahun 1937. Pentadbiran British telah merintis pembangunan bandar Taiping menerusi pembinaan beberapa bangunan penting seperti pejabat bendahari, balai polis, hospital, gudang senjata dan pejabat kerajaan. Pada tahun 1883, jumlah penduduk Taiping adalah seramai 6,000 orang, 24

Sejarah Taiping majoritinya berbangsa Cina dan kelompok kecil kaum India (kaum Cetiar). Sejak dari tahun 1883, Taiping pesat membangun, beberapa bangunan seperti pejabat kerajaan dan mahkamah serta sebuah bilik bacaan dan perpustakaan telah didirikan. Komunikasi turut berkembang dengan pesat. Jalan raya yang menghubungkan Taiping dan Parit Buntar dibina dan siap pada tahun 1883 serta diikuti dengan pemasangan talian telegraf di sepanjang jalan tersebut. Landasan keretapi dibina menghubungkan Taiping dengan Port Weld pada tahun 1885. PENGENALAN Port Weld ketika itu merupakan sebuah pelabuhan yang aktif dengan kegiatan perdagangan di antara Taiping dan Pulau Pinang, Ulu Perak, Kinta dan Teluk Anson (Teluk Intan). Kini, Port Weld di kenali sebagai Kuala Sepetang. Hospital Ying Wah untuk orang-orang miskin telah dibina pada tahun 1880. Akhbar berbahasa Tamil telah diterbitkan oleh Syed Abdul Hassan Ibni Burhan, keturunan Arab. Di samping itu, beliau turut menerbitkan akhbar Melayu iaitu Sri Perak dan tiga tahun berikutnya sebuah lagi akhbar Melayu iaitu Jajahan Melayu diterbitkan. Akhbar berbahasa Inggeris iaitu Perak Pioneer diterbitkan pada 4 Julai 1894. Sebuah pasukan polis ditubuhkan yang dianggotai oleh orang-orang Punjab dan Pathan. Di samping itu, pasukan askar iaitu, Malay States Guides juga ditubuhkan. Taiping mempunyai sebuah Sekolah Inggeris yang pertama iaitu Central School yang terdiri daripada anak-anak pemilik dan pekerja- pekerja lombong. Ianya dibina dan dibuka oleh Sir Hugh Low dalam tahun 1878. Pada tahun 1902, sebuah sekolah perempuan dibina dan dinamakan Treacher’s Girl School sebagai penghormatan ke atas perkhidmatan Puan Treachers, isteri kepada Residen Perak, William Treachers. Beberapa tahun kemudiannya, banyak sekolah telah didirikan dan Central School telah berpindah ke bangunan baru serta dinamakan Sekolah King Edward VII. Pada tahun 1937, iaitu selepas Perang Dunia Kedua, gelaran ibu kota negeri Perak telah berpindah dari Taiping ke Ipoh. Sungguhpun begitu Taiping kekal sebagai bandar yang memertabatkan peninggalan warisan sejarah menerusi pelan pembangunan yang terancang serta mengekalkan elemen warisan sejarah. Bangunan-bangunan yang dibina di Taiping semasa menjadi ibu kota negeri Perak masih kekal dan digunakan sehingga kini. 25

Perkara-Perkara Pertama Taiping SEJARAH Perkara--Perkara Pertama Taiping 1. 1873 – Rumah Kapten Speedy Rumah Kapten Speedy telah dibina oleh Menteri Ngah Ibrahim pada tahun 1873. Ianya terletak di persimpangan Jalan Menteri, Matang dan merupakan salah satu contoh rumah British yang masih ada. Kapten Speedy adalah pegawai British yang dilantik oleh Ngah Ibrahim untuk membantu menjaga keamanan daerah Larut. 2. 1874 – Bandar Taiping Bandar pertama di Malaysia yang dibangunkan dengan pusat-pusat pentadbiran rasmi dan sekolah- sekolah Inggeris. 3. 1874 – Pejabat Perbendaharaan dan Audit Bangunan ini berfungsi sebagai pejabat Kewangan & Audit Perak dan Bank Simpanan Kerajaan, iaitu bank kerajaan pertama di Malaya. Peti besi pertama di Malaysia berjenama Chubb daripada England turut dimuatkan di sini. 4. 1875 - Gereja Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Gereja ini pada mulanya hanyalah sebuah bangunan kayu di atas bukit. Bangunan baru dibina pada tahun 1880 dan siap dalam masa 4 tahun. Ianya menjadi gereja Katolik Roman yang pertama di Taiping. 5. 1875 - Balai Penghulu Matang Bangunan ini dibina sebagai pejabat pentadbiran dan dewan mahkamah bagi para penghulu untuk menguruskan hal perundangan berkaitan kawasan pentadbiran di kampung masing-masing dan lain-lain. Ianya telah melalui beberapa pengubahsuaian untuk menampung keperluan semasa. 6. 1875 - Kediaman Penolong Residen Bangunan ini menjadi kediaman Penolong Residen seperti Kapten T.C Speedy dan Sir Edward Maxwell. Kini ia menjadi kediaman rasmi Pegawai Daerah Larut, Matang. Kini ia merupakan kediaman rasmi Pegawai Daerah Larut Matang. 26

Perkara-Perkara Pertama Taiping 7. 1875 - Padang Esplanade Kawasan padang ini dibangunkan pada tahun 1890 oleh Kolonel Robert S.F. Walker, Komandan Polis dan Tentera pada waktu itu. Di kawasan sekitarnya terdapat berek-berek, rumah kelab dan SEJARAH sebuah gereja. Padang ini digunakan untuk upacara kawad dan juga padang pelbagai aktiviti sukan seperti kriket, rugbi dan lain-lain. 8. 1877 – Pejabat Telegraf Pejabat telegraf ini menyediakan perkhidmatan servis telegraf pertama sekitar tahun 1876. Khidmat pos ditambah untuk pengeluaran telegram bagi memudahkan komunikasi antara Matang dan Taiping. 9. 1877 – Perbandaran Larut Pusat Perbandaran yang pertama ditubuhkan oleh Residen British untuk membangun dan menjaga kesejahteraan bandar Taiping. Pelbagai badan- badan pentadbiran ditubuhkan untuk tujuan ini. 10. 1879 - Mes Pegawai Tentera British Bangunan ini dibina sebagai Mes Pegawai British untuk unit bersenjata Malay States Guides. Ianya terletak berhampiran ibu pejabat unit tentera British serta digunakan sebagai rumah rehat dan ruang untuk acara sosial bagi pegawai-pegawai tentera. Kini, ia dikenali sebagai Wisma Perwira Batalion Kesembilan Rejimen Renjer DiRaja. 11. 1879 – Bukit Larut Pada tahun 1884, pihak British membina pusat peranginan di sini di mana beberapa banglo telah dibina untuk pegawai British. Kebanyakan banglo ini masih ada sehingga kini. Bukit Larut adalah resort bukit tertua dan terkecil di Malaysia dengan ketinggian 1036 m dari aras laut. 12. 1879 – Penjara Taiping Pada mulanya digelar Penjara Perak atau Taiping Gaol. Penjara Taiping yang dibina pada tahun 1879, merupakan seluruh kompleks penjara terbesar di Semenanjung Malaysia. Secara rasminya digazet sebagai Penjara Taiping pada tahun 1992. Ia dibangunkan di Taiping memandangkan Taiping merupakan ibu negeri Perak dari tahun 1874-1937. 13. 1879 - Rumah Rehat Bandar Bangunan ini pada mulanya adalah bangunan kayu satu tingkat dan digunakan sebagai kediaman gabenor, dibina pada tahun 1879. Ianya juga merupakan rumah rehat pertama di Semenanjung Malaysia. 27

Perkara-Perkara Pertama Taiping 14. 1881 - Pejabat Daerah Bangunan ini direka dengan binaan Victorian SEJARAH Neo Classical. Kini, bangunan ini diguna pakai oleh Pejabat Tanah dan Daerah Larut Matang. 15. 1881 – Balai Polis / Menara Jam Bangunan ini dahulunya dikenali sebagai The Fort. Ia telah menjadi ikon untuk bandar Taiping. Ia, dibina dengan kayu pada tahun 1881, kemudian dibina semula menggunakan batu pada tahun 1891. Antara tahun 1908 dan 1950, bangunan menara jam ini digunakan sebagai Balai Polis Bandar dan juga balai bomba. 16. 1883 – Gereja All Saints Gereja ini telah direka oleh arkitek dari Australia, Mr. George A. Lefroy, dan dibina dengan rekaan Gothic. Gereja ini masih mengekalkan ciri-ciri asalnya seperti tingkap kaca berwarna dan banyak plak tembaga peringatan. Ianya digazet sebagai Bangunan Warisan Negara pada tahun 2012 dan masih digunakan sebagai gereja Anglican. 17. 1883 - Sekolah King Edward VII Sekolah ini dibina pada tahun 1883 dan merupakan sekolah aliran Inggeris yang kedua di Taiping. Pada mulanya, ia dikenali sebagai Central School dan kemudiannya dinamakan sekolah King Edward VII sempena pertabalan King Edward VII di England pada masa itu. 18. 1884 – Pasar Taiping Bangunan ini adalah contoh terbaik bangunan berstruktur kayu abad ke- 19 yang dibina pada tahun 1884. Ianya terletak di Jalan Taming Sari. Bangunan pasar kedua (pasar kering) dibina pada tahun 1885, terletak di Jalan Kota. 19. 1884 – Taman Tasik Taiping Taman Tasik Taiping terletak di kawasan tanah rata di kaki Bukit Larut dan juga dikenali sebagai Taman Awam. Tasik ini dikelilingi Pokok Hujan-hujan atau Samanea saman dan mempunyai lapan tasik dan kolam tinggalan dari aktiviti perlombongan bijih timah sebelum ini. 20. 1884 – Stesen Keretapi Taiping Keretapi moden yang pertama di Semenanjung Malaysia mula-mula diperkenalkan di Taiping. Stesen asal dibina oleh Federated Malay States Railway (FMSR). Tapak stesen yang asal terletak di 28

Perkara-Perkara Pertama Taiping Sekolah King Edward VIIl (Jalan Stesen , Taiping). Pada tahun 1910, stesen ini dipindahkan dan landasannya dipanjangkan ke arah utara. 21. 1885 - Bangunan Keretapi Negeri Perak dan Larut Bangunan ini mempunyai kombinasi seni binaan lama dan moden. Bangunan kayu dua tingkat ini dibina pada tahun 1885 dengan tambahan dua tingkat SEJARAH binaan batu bata. 22. 1886 – Muzium Perak Muzium Perak dibina pada tahun 1883 dan merupakan muzium pertama di Malaysia. Ciri binaannya yang unik memaparkan rekaan Moorish digabungkan dengan gaya Neo Classical dan Victorian. Koleksi-koleksi pameran di muzium amat istimewa seperti artifak ethnologi, spesimen zoologi, seramik dan koleksi istimewa dari komuniti Orang Asli. 23. 1886 – Padang Golf Taiping Padang golf ini terletak di dalam kawasan Taman Tasik Taiping dan merupakan padang golf pertama di Malaysia. Pada tahun 1988, padang golf ini ditutup di atas sebab-sebab keselamatan dan aktiviti golf beralih ke padang golf di Bukit Jana, Kamunting. 24. 1887 – Persatuan Kwang Tung Bangunan ini dibina oleh Persatuan Kwang Tung cawangan Taiping pada tahun 1887 untuk menjaga kebajikan ahli-ahlinya. Kapitan Keng Cheng Kwee merupakan ketua yang mengusulkan pembinaan bangunan persatuan. 25. 1888 - Perpustakaan Peringatan Kemerdekaan Taiping Bangunan asal dibina pada 1882 dan digunakan sebagai bilik membaca untuk pegawai British. Bangunan Victorian yang menggantikan bilik membaca dibina oleh British pada tahun 1912. Kini, bangunan ini merupakan perpustakaan awam dan dikenali sebagai Independence Memorial Library. 26. 1889 - Sekolah Menengah Treacher Methodist Sekolah ini merupakan sekolah perempuan pertama ditubuhkan oleh kerajaan Perak pada tahun 1889 dan dikenali sebagai Government Girls’ School dengan jumlah pelajar seramai lapan orang pada mulanya. Pihak Methodist telah mengambil alih sekolah tersebut dan menamakannya Lady Treacher Girls’ School. 27. 1891 – Pejabat Topo dan Pemetaan Bangunan Pejabat Topo dan Pemetaan yang lama, dikenali dengan senibina Anglo-Indian, adalah pejabat kerajaan yang dibaik pulih. Bangunan ini siap dibina pada tahun 1891 dan direka oleh G.A. Lefroy, arkitek dari Australia. Kini, bangunan ini digunakan sebagai Galeri Perbandaran Taiping. Bangunan dua tingkat ini adalah contoh terbaik binaan kayu dan batu di Taiping. 29

Perkara-Perkara Pertama Taiping 28. 1899 – Persatuan Ceylon Orang-orang daripada Ceylon mengasaskan Bilik Bacaan Victoria yang SEJARAH Persatuan Ceylon pada tahun 1899 dan merupakan persatuan pertama bagi asal di Jalan Taming Sari (Main Road) pada tahun 1898. Ia dikenali sebagai pendatang di Semenanjung Malaysia. 29. 1902 - Hutan Paya Laut Matang Hutan negeri di daerah Matang adalah hutan paya laut yang telah dijaga dengan rapi sejak zaman jajahan British sehingga kini. Cara pemeliharaan paya bakau dibawah seliaan Perhutanan Matang adalah contoh terbaik dan dilihat sebagai pakar dalam teknik perhutanan bakau. 30. 1930 – Landasan Udara Tekah Landasan mendarat di Tekah ini telah diiktiraf sebagai salah satu landasan mendarat terbaik oleh Sir Phillip Sassoon dan pakar-pakar yang lain. Ia merupakan landasan udara pertama di Semenanjung Malaysia. 31. 1937 - Jeti Jubli Perak Jeti ini dibina pada tahun 1937 dan direka dengan senibina Kolonial serta dibina dengan gabungan dana dari orang awam dan komuniti setempat. Ia adalah jeti pertama dibina di Semenanjung Malaysia untuk memperingati Sambutan Jubli Perak sempena pemerintahan King George V di England. 32. 1947 - Kubur Peringatan Perang Komanwel Kubur Peringatan Perang ini dibina pada tahun 1974 dan merupakan tempat dimana bersemadinya Tentera Bersekutu yang terkorban ketika Perang Dunia Kedua. Ia adalah kubur peringatan perang yang pertama dan terbesar di Malaysia. 33. 2003 – Night Safari Taiping Night Safari Taiping adalah produk pelancongan pertama di Malaysia. Ia dirasmikan oleh DYMM Sultan Azlan Shah Muhibbuddin Shah pada bulan Jun 2003. Dalam usaha untuk mengekalkan persekitaran semulajadi, Night Safari Taiping mempamerkan haiwan-haiwan yang aktif pada waktu malam dalam habitat semulajadi. 30

SPECIAL FEATURE Special Feature Zoo Taiping & Night Safari Taiping, Perak, Malaysia Zoo Taiping & Night Safari or officially known as Taman Mergastua Sultan Idris Shah is run by the Taiping Municipal Council. It is located in the famous Taiping Lake Gardens in Taiping, Perak. In 1961, the elected members of the Taiping Town Council, approached the Chief Minister of Perak to submit a proposal on the establishment of a zoo in the Taiping Lake Gardens in order to attract tourists to this town. A 5 hectare site was set aside for this purpose with an intial budget of RM50,000.00. With the encouragement given by the Perak State Government and the Chief Game Warden of Peninsular Malaysia, the zoo was established in 1962. The zoo was officially opened by His Royal Highness Paduka Seri Sultan Idris Iskandar Al-Mutawakkil Alallahi Shah II Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar Shah Kaddasullah, the Sultan of Perak. The Zoo was renamed as Taman Mergastua Sultan Idris Shah on 7th March 1964 by the Sultan of Perak. Prior to 1993 the zoo had been increased in size to 10 hectares and a master plan for its redevelopment was prepared. In 1993 the zoo was renovated to its current 14 hectare size. The master plan was updated to consider the increase in size. It included the latest developments of the zoo’s design. The early 1990’s saw the zoo being given priority in its development. The master plan for its development was implemented in stages and financial support from the Federal Government was obtained. Modern enclosures have been constructed in the zoo. Due to 31

Special Feature its natural setting, the Taiping Zoo is one of the most naturalistic zoos in the country. SPECIAL FEATURE several new ideas. The objectives An update to the master plan was done in 1995 that incorporated taken into consideration in the master planning were : • To become a centre for ex-situ wildlife conservation • To become a centre for tourism • To create opportunities for education both formally and informally • To create opportunities for research The zoo’s mission statement is to become one of the main tourist attractions in Malaysia by creating excellent animal exhibits which take into consideration the natural habitats to achieve the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research. The zoo currently has two loops. The East and West loops are for exhibits. It has a central recreation area, a public services area and an administrative area. Plans are underway to further enhance the zoo through more naturalistic animal exhibits and also the creation of a botanical trail to attract people who enjoys plants in the zoo. A new comprehensive Animal Hospital was constructed to cater for the various veterinary needs at the zoo. Zoo Taiping & Night Safari endeavours to improve in the guest for better exhibits for animals taking into consideration the physical, psychological and physiological needs of the animals we care for as well as improving facilities for the visitors to the zoo. Recent upgradings include a new exhibits for the Malaysian Elephants with a 60m long x 10m wide with a depth of 3.3m for them to swim in, the African Savana exhibits and new tram station. Last year, 12 exhibits were upgraded; among them are the Marmoset and Tamarin Complex, Loveland Forest, Orang Utans, Chimpanzees, Serow, Barking Deer, African Savana holding area, Malayan Tiger, Black Panthers, Golden Cat, Australia Fauna and Seladang. A new restaurant has also been developed called Restoran Mergastua which provides an excellent dining experience with delicious local and western food. In 2001 and 2002, the Taiping Zoo embarked on an ambitious project to open a Night Safari at the zoo. The concept was along the lines of the Singapore Night Safari but using the same location for the day and night zoo. It allows people to walk or ride on a mini train. After much planning the Taiping Night Safari was opened to the public on the 3rd of March 2003 and was officially opened by the Sultan of Perak, His Royal Highness Paduka Sultan Azlan Muhibbudin Shah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Yussuf Izzuddin Shah Ghafarullahu-lah on the 15th of June 2003. In conjuction with the opening of the Night Safari, a new logo for Zoo Taiping & Night Safari was also launched. 32

Special Feature Adoption Programme - Background ZOO TAIPING & NIGHT SAFARI Each animal in the zoo has its own requirements which can be quite different and specific. You can help to contribute towards their care through Zoo Taiping & Night Safari’s animal adoption program. It was first introduced in 1994. The animal adoption programme is a unique programme which allows individuals or organizations to sponsor either SPECIAL FEATURE animals or facilities in the Zoo. All donations will be put to good use either for animal food, medicine, enrichment programs/maintenance, building of animal exhibits or visitor facilities. Public can sponsor animals, enclosures or other facilities in Zoo Taiping & Night Safari to help in the efforts for conservation and preservation of wildlife. We hope this programme will generate funds that will continue to help in our conservation efforts, as well as maintaining the habitats for the good of the current generation and generations to come. ZOO TAIPING’S EducATIONAL PAckAGES & NIGHT SAFARI Zoo Taiping & Night Safari is a place where the public can learn about wildlife. The main objectives of Zoo Taiping & Night Safari are as a place for education conservation, recreation, research and training and also for the public to learn about wildlife. Awareness about welfare and education can be conveyed to the public. Zoo Taiping & Night Safari offers educational packages for school students, university students, families, corporate and others. Through this education packages, visitors can increase their knowledge as well as get additional information about wildlife from the rangers on duty. PAckAGES STAGES AMOuNT 1 PLATINuM RM 50,000 and above 2 GOLd RM 30,000 - RM 49,000 3 SILVER RM 10,000 - RM 29,999 4 BRONZE RM 1,000 - RM 9,999 5 cONTRIBuTION RM 100 - RM 999 For Further Information Please Contact: ZOO TAIPING & NIGHT SAFARI Jalan Taman Tasik Taiping, 34000 Taiping, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia. Tel: 605-8086577 Fax: 605-8066025 E-mail: [email protected] Laman Web: www.zootaiping.gov.my 33

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Advertisement Advertorial Since 1918 Established in 1918 Ipoh Bakery is nearly a century old, stratigicaly located in the middle of Taiping town, Ipoh Bakery is run by the same Hainanese family for 4 generations. Breads, cakes and pasrties are freshly baked every morning, often using traditional methods. Many of the products in Ipoh Bakery are still very old school, providing a slice of childhood memories for generations of the local folks in Taiping. During weekday afternoons, one will be able to see numerous bread vendors outside the bakery, collecting their bread to be sold to customers all over Taiping. If you are happen to be in the vicinity, remember to visit and experince this nostalgic old bread bakery. Batard Loaf Batard Loaf Pandan Layer Pandan Layer Hainanise Bread Hainanise Bread 144-146, Jalan Taming Sari, 34000, Taiping, Perak. 058073354 http://www.facebook.com/IpohBakery/

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SIGHTSEEING Zoo Taiping & Night Safari Zoo Taiping or Taman Mergastua Sultan Idris Shah II Park is the only zoo located in the north of Peninsular Malaysia. The Zoo Taiping was opened to the public in 1961 and it is located in a natural abode in the Taiping Lake Gardens near the foothills of Maxwell Hill (Bukit Larut), covering an area of 34 acres. Zoo Taiping has started a new concept where the animals are displayed in a naturalistic exhibits which focuses on the animal’s natural habitat. The zoo has its own unique qualities as it is located in an area where nature flourishes with natural streams, tranquil lake and lush greeneries. Zoo Taiping now houses around 1500 animals from 130 species of mammals, reptiles, birds and fishes. Some of the animals displayed here are tigers, lions, hippos, rhinos, giraffe, orang utan and many more. Exhibits at the Malaysian Rainforest Experience, Lowland Forest, Riverine Forest, African Savana and Elephants of the Perak River are some of the exhibits that are specifically designed to imitate the animal’s natural habitats. These exhibits also function as conservation centres in the zoo’s effort to increase the animals’ population, especially the endangered ones. 37

Zoo Taiping & Night Safari On the other hand, the Night Safari in Taiping will give you a whole new experience of zoo visiting, being the SIGHTSEEING 2003, providing visitors with the first night zoo in Malaysia. Taiping’s Night Safari is open to public since chance of observing the animals at night the time where most of them are very active. The animals are exhibited in natural surroundings similar to their natural habitat. Special lighting that is very similar to natural moonlight illuminates the area so that visitors can get better sightings of the animals without compromising the animals’ well being. Visitors will also get to enjoy and embrace the natural surrounding sights and sounds for a more realistic safari experience. Address: Jalan Pekeliling, Taiping Lake Gardens, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia. Phone No.: +605 – 808 6577 Website: www.zootaiping.gov.my Operating Hours: Zoo Taiping Open everyday including Sundays and Public Holidays (8.30 a.m. - 6.00 p.m.) Night Safari Open every night including Sundays and Public Holidays (8.00 p.m. - 11.00 p.m.) On Saturday Nights and eve of Public Holidays (8.00 p.m. - 12.00 a.m.) GPS Coordinates: 4.854923, 100.7514682 38

Taiping Highlight TAIPING HERITAGE TRAIL T aiping Heritage Trail is one of the tourism products of Taiping Municipal Council (MPT) in collaboration with the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA) aimed to promote the characteristics of the heritage buildings in Taiping. This heritage trail also highlights the history of Taiping 33 Firsts which is slowly forgotten by youths nowadays. SIGHTSEEING Taiping Heritage Trail covers a distance of 11.5km, consisting of 40 locations of existing heritage buildings that have historical elements and architectural diversity. In addition, bus services for Taiping Heritage Trail are available for the visitors and tourists. 40 Points of Interest in Taiping Heritage Trail 1. Zoo Taiping & Night Safari The Zoo Taiping, formerly known as Taman Mergastua is a beautifully designed Zoological Park. Constructed by the Taiping Town Council in 1961 the zoo was inaugurated by DYMM Sultan Idris Shah II. A major break through for the zoo was the introduction of the Night Safari , Malaysia’s first nocturnal park in Jun 2003 which was inaugurated by DYMM Sultan Azlan Muhibuddin Shah. It is Malaysia’s first zoo that allows visitors to observe nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. 2. Rock Garden The Taiping Rock Garden is a sculpture garden, a man-made arrangement of artificial rocks. The replication of prehistoric animals is the focal point of interest in this garden. This unique and amazing creation was built around the 1970’s as a form of recreational centre for children. It is believed that the idea for the sculptures on this rock island emerged from the Ultraman series, a favourite television programme among children at that period. 3. Rain Trees - Pokok Hujan-Hujan (Samanea saman) The Rain Trees or commonly known as Pukul Lima trees were first planted during the era of Mr R. Derry, the officer in charge of Government Parks in 1898. These majestic rain trees, also known by their scientific name, Samanea saman, line the streets of the Taiping Lake Garden, their branches stretching from one end of the road into the water across. Built on top of an abandoned tin mine, the garden was opened in 1880, earning a place in the history books as the first public gardens in Malay peninsular. Undoubtedly, the Rain Tree has become an icon of the Taiping Town. 4. The Chinese Pagoda The Chinese Pagoda is a part of Chinese Traditional architecture. It is believed that the Chinese Pagoda was constructed around the 1970’s with traditional architectural designs from China. According to Chinese beliefs, newlyweds should walk past the pagoda as a symbol for success in overcoming challenges in married life. 5. Tasik Dayung Tasik Dayung was originally known as Bougainvillea Point. This is because at one time, the complex was filled with rows and rows of bougainvillea plants ,cultivated by the Taiping Municipal Council (MPT) in 1997.This building was constructed as a centre for water - themed recreational activities around the Taiping Lake Gardens. Now , it is one of the main tourists attraction in Taiping. 6. The Silver Jubilee Jetty The Silver Jubilee Jetty is a colonial design jetty constructed using a combination of public and local community funds. This was the first jetty to be built in the Malay Peninsular to commemorate the Silver Jubilee celebration of the reign of King George V in England. During the British rule, this jetty was used as a starting point for any sport-related activities held at Taiping Lake Gardens. The construction of the jetty was completed in 1936. 39

Taiping Highlight 7. The F.M.S Station The F.M.S Station, was established in 2013, serves as an outlet for well known dishes SIGHTSEEING location of the Rajah Rest House which was demolished in 1985. The Rajah Rest House from Taiping. It was conceptually designed to replicate the colonial train coaches since Taiping had the first railway station in the Malay Peninsular. The site was formally the was the first accommodation (Rest House) for the sultans in the Malay Peninsula. 8. The Independence Memorial Library The original building at this site was constructed in 1882 and used as a reading room for the British Government Officers. The current Victorian building that replaced the reading room was built by the British Government in 1912. It was leased in to the Chartered Bank Of India, Australia and China and was the first building in the Malay Peninsula specially erected by the government for a bank. Currently, this building houses the public library known as the Independence Memorial Library. Initially, the town Council was the custodian of the library being handing over to the Perak State Library Corporation in 1986. 9. The Kwangtung Association This building was constructed in 1887 by the Kwangtung Association branch in Taiping to protect the welfare of members of the association. Kapitan Kheng Cheng Kwee was the main leader to lead the construction of the association’s building. The Emperor of China donated a tablet to commemorate the God of War, Kwang Ti, as a tribute to the service of the Hakka, Teo Chew and Hainan societies in Taiping, Perak. 10. The Shun Tak Association The Shun Tak Association was built in 1896 by artisans from Shun Tak District, now known as the Shunde District, in China. The Association was formed to safeguard the welfare of immigrants from this area who came to Taiping. The building served as a community hall where social, cultural and religious events could be conducted. In June 2015, restoration works were completed to ensure the preservation of this historic building. 11. The Taiping Clock Tower The Taiping Clock Tower, once known as The Fort, is an iconic landmark of Taiping. The original timber building was build in 1881 and was rebuilt with bricks in 1891. Between the year 1908 and 1950, the clock tower building was used as the Town Police Station and also served as fire station. 12. Peace Hotel Originally, this building was a dwelling house to a Chinese trader named Cheah Cheang Hooi. It was build in 1928 with straits eclectic architectural style which were incorporated in accordance with local conditions and local climate. In addition, the building was decorated with intricate and unique features. All of these elements were built and carved in various forms of character which makes this a unique building in Taiping. 13. Peking Hotel This two storey building with Anglo Indian architecture was built in 1929. Originally the building is believed to be the residence of a wealthy Taiping businessman. Later, the building was used as the premise of the Taiping Rubber Dealers Association. During the Japanese Occupation from 1941-1945, the building became the headquarters of the notorious Kempeitai (Japanese Military Police). After the war, the building was again used as the Taiping Rubber Dealers Association until 1965. The building was later converted into a hotel and known as the Peking Hotel. 40

Taiping Highlight 14. The Taiping Market The Taiping Central Market is Malaysia’s best-preserved example of a 19th century timber structure. Comprising two sections, the wet market was built in 1884 and is located along Main Road (Jalan Taming Sari). Besides that, a dry market was built in 1885 infront of Kota Road (Jalan Kota). Each building is 220 feet long and 60 feet wide. Today, they still function as markets and are maintained by the Taiping Municipal Council. SIGHTSEEING 15. Malay Mosque The masjid Melayu, literally translated as Malay Mosque, is located in the heart of Taiping town. The mosque was built in 1897 and is the oldest mosque in Taiping. The mosque was constructed in Dutch English architectural style. It was also a Islamic school (madrasah) for the Muslim community to enhance their knowledge and pratices of Islam. In the burial ground, lies prominent leaders of Taiping’s pioneers; among them; Toh Puan Halimah, Tengku Menteri Wan Mohd Isa and Dr.Burhanuddin Helmi. The late Allahyarhamah Toh Puan Halimah was the first to be laid to rest here in 1899. 16. Amman Temple Kuil Amman, also known as Arumigu Nagamuthu Mariamman Temple, is managed by the Taiping Hindu Devalaya Sabah. It is the main place of worship for the local Hindu population. There is a believed that a snake once inhabited its ground and was worshipped by a local woman named Marimuthu Ammal. In 1879, the temple was registered and held its first Annual General Meeting also in the same year. Its main activities are the annual Pangguni Uthiram and Navathiri Festival Tamil language closes, weddings and other religious events. 17. Hosian Temple The original timber structure of the Hosian Temple was built in 1890. It was later rebuilt with bricks by artisans from China in 1905. The history of the building began with a rich tycoon named Cheng Yen Xin who donated a substantial amount of money as a symbol of love and affection for his daughter Lin Ai Zhen who become a female monk. Lin Ai Zhen become the first monk at this temple. The temple is still in use as a place of worship and is managed by two monks and eight guardians. 18. The Hokkien Association The Hokkien Association was established in 1862 to look after the welfare and uphold the unity of its members who had migrated from the Fujian Province, China.The first president of the association, Ng Boo Bee donated the land and in 1904, the second president, Lim San Kip started the construction of the building. The building has since then became the administrative centre for the Hokkien Association. 19. The House of Orang Besar Jajahan PWD 41 building was built by the British in 1893 as part of the war debt compensation. The Territorial Chief Of Larut Matang & Selama District or commonly known as Orang Besar Jajahan (OBJ). OBJ is a territorial Chief appointed by the Perak Sultan to administer an area or territory. The building became the official residence of the OBJ since 1899 until now. 20. Sikh Gurdwara A Gurdwara building is the place where the Sikh community comes together for congregational worship.The early Sikh Gurdwara was built in 1881 for Sikh police members and was located within the police barrack at Jalan Taming Sari, Taiping. It was the first Gurdwara building in the Malay Peninsular. The Gurdwara building was later relocated to Jalan Stesen Hulu ,where it remains until today. The construction of the original timber structure was financed by Mr. Bhai Pall Singh Dhoti and completed in 1921. 41

Taiping Highlight 21. Taiping Train Station The first modern railway line in Malay Peninsula was introduced in Taiping. The original site for the railway station was at King Edward VII (I) Primary School which was the first SIGHTSEEING railway station was relocated and the tracks were extended to the north. The original railway station in Malay States and started its operation on 1st June 1885. In 1910, the railway station was built by the Federated Malay States Railway (FMSR). 22. St. George School The foundation stone for the school was laid on 20th June 1914 by Oliver Marks, the acting Resident Of Perak. On 18th January 1915 the school started initially in a building made of timber. Eventually , the main porch in the front flanked by two wings on either side featuring Neo Greek and Neo Romanesque architecture were built. This new building was officiated by Sir Reginald George Watson, the British Resident Of Perak on 16th September 1915. 23. King Edward VII School The second English-medium school established in Taiping was originally known as Central School, was built in 1883. In 1905, the school was relocated to its present site, which was the former railway station. The school was renamed King Edward VII School, in conjunction with the coronation of King Edward VII in London. The school gate which was erected in 1908 still stands and the rain trees, planted in 1910, still line the school compound to this day. 24. The Town Rest House The Rest House, originally a single storey timber building which served as the governor’s residence, was built by the British in 1897 . The building, numbered PWD 100 became an important landmark during the Taiping - Port Weld railway era. In 1894, the building was upgraded to a double storey brick building with the words Rest House 1894 inscribed on the pediment. The building is the first rest house in the Malay States. 25. Taiping Municipal Gallery The Taiping Municipal Gallery building, known for its Anglo Indian architecture, is a restored former government office. The building,completed in 1891, was designed by G.A Lefroy, an architect and chief surveyor from Australia. This magnificient building was first used by the Perak Trigonometrical and Survey Department in 1891 and became the first Trigonometrical and Survey Office in Perak. From 1931-1935, this building was taken over by the Taiping Sanitary Board. Today, this building is used to house the Taiping Municipal Gallery. This double storey building is the best example of timber and brick building architecture in Taiping. 26. The House of Kapitan Chung Keng Kwee This town house was the home and office of a Chinese Kapitan named Chung Keng Kwee. Built in the 1890’s the house was designed similar to most town houses in the Straits Settlements (Baba Nyonya or Peranakan). The town house, with early Straits Eclectic architecture, has a large main door and delicate carvings on the air vents. 27. The Post Office The post office was originally located in the old telegraph office at PWD 103. In 1899, the post office was relocated to its present building, which was formerly the Treasury and Perak Audit Office. The building also housed the Government Saving Bank (Bank Simpanan Kerajaan) which was the first government bank in the Malay States, a made in England Chubb brand, was installed in this post office building. 28. The Telegraph Office The telegraph building is a double storey brick structure , built in 1885. It is located at the end of the former Port Weld - Taiping railway track. The first inland telegraph service was introduced in 1876. The postal service was then added to the duties of the telegraph office, enabling telegrams to be issued as a means of communication between Matang and Taiping. 42

Taiping Highlight 29. The Land and District Office The Land Office and District Office building, designed with Victorian Neo Classical architecture, was built in 1897. The original building layout was designed by Mr St. Francis Caufield, a Senior Engineer at the Public Works Department (PWD) in the shape of letter C for Caufield divided the building symmetrically. Today, the building houses the Land & District Office of Larut Matang. 30. The Esplanade SIGHTSEEING The esplanade also known as The Field was built in 1890 by Colonel Robert S.F Walker ,the Commandant of The Police and Military Force incorporating British municipality features. This includes barracks, club house and a church. The Esplanade was a spacious area not only used as a parade field for marching and processions but also as a cricket field. The main function of the Esplanade was to be a common field with a symbolic aim and emphasis on its official status. 31. The Assistant British Resident Residence This was the original site of the PWD 1 building constructed by the British and located in Bukit Jelutong, Taiping. It was once occupied by captain T.C.S Speedy, Assistant British Resident. In 1884, the building was renamed PWD 2 when the Perak Resident, Sir Frank Swetthenham built another new resident at Resident Hill. Since then, the house has undergone changes with each new occupant. After Captain Speedy, the house was occupied by Sir Edward Maxwell, who was the Assistant Resident for Sir Hugh Low. Today, it is the official residence of the District Officer for Larut, Matang dan Selama. 32. The New Club The New Club was formed by members of the Taiping community who could not gain acceptance into the Perak Club. Founded by Colonel Walker and his friends, they gamely called it The New Club in defiance of the old club that is the Perak Club. 33. Officers’ Mess PWD No 7 building was built by the Perak State Government for the Malay States Guides (MSG) in 1906 to replace the original mess building located at the barrack square. The mess was used for recreational and resting place for the British officers residing in Taiping. MSG was commissed in 1896. Today, the building served as the Officers’ Mess for the 9th Battalion Royal Ranger Regiment. 34. All Saints Church Consecrated on 8th August 1887 by the Right Reverend G.F.Hose, Bishop Of Singapore and Sarawak. All Saints’ Church is the first English Church in the federated Malay States. The building, designed by George A.Lefroy, an Australian architect features timber and a Gothic design. It sits on a prominent rise not far from the centre of Taiping. The church which survived the Japanese occupation has retained many of its original features such as the east window of stained glass,the wooden pews,the two manual pipe organs, the belfry with small windows and many commemorative brass plaques. In 2012, the church was gazetted as National Heritage Building and it is still used as a place of worship today. 35. Perak Museum The Perak Museum built in 1883. Is the first museum in Malaysia. This unique building features Moorish designs that are combined with Neo Classical and Victorian architectural styles. The museum houses several rare ethnograpfic, zoological and ceramic collections as well as an exhibit on the Orang Asli Community. Many of the collections are more than a hundred years old. In 2009 this museum gained recognition as a National Heritage Building. 36. Taiping Prison Taiping Prison was originally named Perak Prison and is also known as Taiping Gaol. In 1879, it was the largest prison complex in the Malay Peninsular. Sikh wardens and even vocational trainers from Hong Kong were brought in to introduce useful trade skills to the prisoners in 1881. In 1923, the system of Visiting Justices was introduced. On 9th January 1992, the prison was officially gazetted as Penjara Taiping. 43

Taiping Highlight 37. Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill) Bukit Larut formerly known as Maxwell Hill, with its lush greenery forms an imposing backdrop of Taiping, in the early 1884; The British established a hill retreat encased SIGHTSEEING Most of these bungalows are still preserved today. Rising 1036 m about sea level within the tropical rainforest with bungalows for their officers at the peak of the hill. Bukit Larut is the oldest and smallest hill resort in Malaysia. In those days, ladies were normally carried to the peak in sedan chairs since it was not accesible to vehicles. The British introduced tea planting at 650 m above sea level but it was later abandoned. Today, Bukit Larut still remains as a hill resort. 38. The Coronation Pool In 1937, the Taiping Sanitary Board built a swimming pool. It was named Coronation Pool to honour the coronation of King George VI on 12th May 1937. Its most unique aspect is that it is a fresh-water pool, the source coming directly from a river nearby. Visitors come for fresh water which is also chlorine free. 39. Taiping War Memorial The Taiping War Memorial is a burial site for Allied soldiers who died during World War II. Built in 1947, the memorial consist of 866 graves of the fallen who originated Australia, India, Malaysia, New Zealand, United Kingdom and etc. The burial areas are sectioned according to religious beliefs. Four Malaysian are buried here. Major J.H. Ingram established this site and it is the first and the largest war memorial in Malaysia. Currently, it is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. 40. Burmese Pool The name Burmese Pool is believed to have originated from the Burmese soldiers who discovered this place in the 1920’s. The soldiers from the Burma Rifle Regiment were bought to replace the Malay State Guide which was dissolved then. The Burmese Pool is a natural pool and was originally used for recreational activities by the soldiers. The main water source for this pool is the Batu Tegoh River.

SENARAI NAMA TEMPAT 1 Zoo Taiping & Night Safari 11 Menara Jam 21 Stesen Keretapi Zoo Taiping & Night Safari Clock Tower Railway Station 2 Rock Garden 12 Hotel Peace 22 Sekolah St. George Rock Garden Peace Hotel St. George School 3 Laluan Pokok Hujan-hujan 13 Hotel Peking 23 Sekolah King Edward VII Rain Tree Walk Peking Hotel King Edward VII Shool 4 Pagoda Cina 14 Pasar Taiping 24 Rumah Rehat Bandar Chinese Pagoda Taiping Market Town Rest House 5 Tasik Duyung 15 Masjid Melayu 25 GALERI PERBANDARAN TAIPING Tasik Duyung Malay Mosque TAIPING MUNICIPAL GALLERY 6 Jeti Jubli Perak 16 Kuil Devalaya 26 Rumah Kapitan Perak Jubilee Jetty Devalaya Temple Kapitan House 7 F.M.S 17 Tokong Hosian 27 Pejabat Pos F.M.S Hosian Temple Post Office 8 Perpustakaan Peringatan 18 Perpustakaan Hokkien 28 Pejabat Telegraf Memorial Library Hokkien Association Telegraph Office 9 Persatuan Kwangtung 19 Rumah Orang Besar Jajahan 29 Pejabat Daerah & Tanah Kwangtung Association Rumah Orang Besar Jajahan District Office 10 Persatuan Shun Tak 20 Sikh Gurdwara 30 Padang Esplanade Shun Tak Association Sikh Gurdwara Rock Garden 31 Rumah Assistant Resident 35 Muzium Perak Rock Garden Perak Museum 39 Tugu Peringatan Perang War Memorial Cemetery 32 New Club 36 Penjara Taiping Rock Garden Taiping Prison 40 Burmese Pool Burmese Pool 33 Mes Tentera 37 Bukit Larut Army Mass Rock Garden 34 Gereja All Saints 38 Kolam Renang Kemahkotaan All Saints Church Coronation Pool

Taiping Highlight Bukit Larut SIGHTSEEING History of Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill) B ukit Larut was formerly known as Maxwell Hill. First discovered in 1879 and developed in 1884 by Willam Edward Maxwell who was the Assistant British Resident in Perak at that high altitude as base for Britsh Officials and Europe’s farmers. Maxwell Hill is the oldest resort in Malaysia with a total area of approximately 7,241.46 hectares. Bukit Larut forms an imposing backdrop of Taiping with its lush greenery. In the early 1884, the British established a hill retreat encased within tropical rainforest with bungalows for their officers at the peak of the hill. Most of these bungalows are still preserved until today. Rising 1,036m above sea level, Bukit Larut is the oldest and smallest hill resort in Malaysia. In those days, ladies were normally carried up to the peak in sedan chairs since it was not accessible to vehicles. The British introduced tea planting at 650 m above sea level but it was later abandoned. Today, Bukit Larut still remains as a hill resort. Land Rover transportation services are available for those who wish to reach the peak of Bukit Larut. This service is provided by the State Government of Perak and the journey going up to the station at the peak takes about 30 minutes. There are a total of 108 bends (72 sharp bends) for every minute of the trip. Its daylight temperature is around 15 degrees Celcius. Bukit Larut is very suitable for those who wish for a short and peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle in the city. You can also enjoy beautiful sceneries of the Taiping town as well as the Straits of Malacca. Fun Facts about Bukit Larut 1. Bukit Larut is the wettest area in Malaysia. It rains almost every evening here. 46

Taiping Highlight 2. Before the paved road was built in 1948, the British go up the hill by pony back as well as sedan chair as means of transportation. 3. Visitors, especially the ones from Europe, commented that Bukit Larut SIGHTSEEING is just like Switzerland in spring. 4. During Ramadhan, the area of Bukit Larut is categorized under Zone 3 for breaking fast in the state of Perak. Jungle Trekking in Bukit Larut A lot of people have started to love jungle trekking activity as it is both healthy and rewarding. So, why not get a change of environment and hike up Bukit Larut? A unique and serene hill, Bukit Larut has the kind of green you won’t find anywhere. There are plenty of jungle trails and one of the most popular ones is the Gunung Hijau trail. Along the way, you will encounter a lot of pretty sights of the Taiping town as well as various kinds of birds and flora such as wild orchids. It is one of the most popular destinations in Taiping. Address: Bukit Larut, 34000 Taiping, Perak. Visiting Hours: Daily, 8.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. GPS Coordinates: 4.51.44.28, 100.47.34.8 Phone No.: +605-8077241 Taiping Lake Garden H ISTORY OF TAIPING LAKE GARDENS Taiping Lake Gardens was developed in 1884. It was opened and inaugurated on 17 November 1893 by S.C.G.M Frank Swettenham, the British Resident in Perak. The Taiping Lake Gardens formerly was a tin mines led by Capitan China Chung Ken Kwee who was leader of the group Hai San. Lows Least Mining, 1877 - The mining area leased for 21 years with the condition to pay royalty of $ 2.00 Renew. Lessee shall return the mining area to the State Government (the British Government) if this was not worked for 21 months in a row. After 21 years, the mining area is left idle. In 1884 the gardens were planted with grasses, flowers and trees; a part of the gardens was fenced, to keep bulls out. Swettenham's wife, Constance Sydney Holmes, got the help of a mining inspector, William Scott to turn the area into a scenic place and subsequently a park. However the development of the first public parks in Malaya was developed in stages with a combination of ideas and energy by Sir Hugh Low, Frank Swettenham, Col. Walker, E.W Birch, Sydney Constance Holmes, A.R Venning, W.R Scott, R. Derry and others. 47

Taiping Highlight Development concept of Taiping Lake Gardens The concept of the Lake Park and surrounding areas take them to look back at the wonderful memories of the Lake District in England SIGHTSEEING writers who find inspiration from the landscape and natural design of the beauty which is compelling and was the center of focus for British poets and of Scottish Highlands. Here Constance Sydney Holmes tried to translate the beauty of Loch Katrine, which being immortalized by Walter Scott in his poem Lady of the Lake (1847). Components in Lake The beauty of Taiping Lake Garden was an inspiration to poets, writers, singers, and artists. The park’s proximity to the foot of Bukit Larut makes it look more majestic. The components of the park were inspired by Sir Hugh Low, Frank Swettenham, Col. Walker, E.W Birch, Sydney Constance Holmes, A.R Venning, W.R Scott, R.Derry and others. Location The awe-inspiring of Taiping Lake Gardens is the location in the beautiful natural landscape, pools of water supplied from 8 Bukit Larut and Rain trees. There are eight (8) lakes in the area of 7 6 Taiping Lake Gardens; 5 • Eight (8) Lakes/Ponds in Taiping Lake Gardens 1. Swan Lake 2. Jungle Lake 3. South Lake 4. West Lake 4 5. Island Pond 6. Pavilion Pond 7. Oblong Pond 1 8. Alamanda Pond 2 The original size of the park was 61.93ha but after additional acquisition by the Perak Government, is now located on a 96.44ha site. It is fully 3 administered by the Taiping Municipal Council, which also runs the Taiping Zoo located within the park. 48