Perak

The Land of Grace

Perak one of the 13 states of Malaysia, is the second largest state in Peninsular Malaysia. It borders Kedah and the Thai Yala Province to the north of Penang to the northwest of Kelantan and Pahang to the east of Selangor to the south, and the Straits of Malacca to the west. The state's administrative capital of Ipoh was known historically for tin-mining activities until the price of the metal dropped, severely affecting the state's economy. The royal capital however remains at Kuala Kangsar, where the palace of the Sultan of Perak is located.

         The state's official name is Perak Darul Ridzuan, or "Perak, the Abode of Grace" Perak means silver in Malay, which is probably derived from the silvery colour of tin. In the 1890s, Perak, with the richest alluvial deposits of tin in the world was one of the jewels in the crown of the British Empire. However, some say the name comes from the "glimmer of fish in the water" that sparkled like silver. Darul Ridzuan is the state's Arabic honourific, and can mean either "land" or "abode" of grace.

Cultures

Pottery and Ceramic

Labu sayong

The Handicraft Development Corporation of Malaysia in Perak is the most comprehensive one stop centre for tourists looking for traditional handicrafts. The centre specializes in the manufacturing of ceramic products. One can see traditional pottery like ‘labu sayong’, a water gourd made from semi-porous blackened burnt clay. It is believed that the storage of drinking water not only keeps the content cool but also safe as it provides protection against all sorts of illnesses.

Dabus dance

Dabus dance is another dance that has the elements of trance like the kuda kepang and barongan. It is believed to have been created as form of a pasttime during the time of the Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. and his friends, Saidina Abu Bakar, Saidina Omar, Saidina Osman and Saidina Ali. 

It is possible that this dance was used to train the soldiers during the wars with the enemies of Islam. The warriors were said to perform this dance to show their bravery, frighten their enemies and to spread the word of God.

Gold Embroidery

'Tepak sireh'

The beautiful artistry of gold embroidery is created by stitching gold thread over the entire surface of templates, shaped from layers of paper, bringing about raised relief on velvet. Traditionally, these delicate decorative art graces may be found on Malay cultural artifacts such as sitting mats, pillow cases, pillow surfaces and betel-nut boxes. 

Attraction Places

Maxwell Hill

Its foothills located a mere  three km from Taiping town, Bukit Larut is Malaysia's oldest and smallest hill resort. Formerly known as Maxwell Hill, it is accessible only by a four-wheel drive service. The road up twists and turns through lush tropical virgin jungle, while the fresh cool air greets you as you ascend a total of 72 hairpin bends that adds to the thrill.

The resort at 1,038m offers a spectacular view of the straits of Malacca up to Pulau Pangkor (Pangkor Island) and, on a fine day, even Penang Island. The recreation park and the profusion of flowers attract many visitors. Overnight accommodation are also available. You can choose to stay in a bungalow or a rest house.

Pangkor Island

Pangkor Island is one of the most popular holiday destination in Perak, welcomes visitors with its serene golden beaches, crystalline blue waters and cool refreshing breeze. Located off the shores of Lumut town, about 90 km southwest of Ipoh, this island definitely makes an ideal gateway. Modern facilities and a wide range of sun and sea activities such as scuba diving, windsurfing, fishing, and snorkeling are available.

Lost World of Tambun

Lost World of Tambun, located at Sunway City Ipoh, Perak is a truly unique place. As you stand against the backdrop of limestone hills, lake, and lush tropical forest, it makes you feel like a National Geographic explorer. It is a perfect escapade for family and city slickers who want to have a short break away from the city and enjoy the outdoor elements from man made beaches, to hot water springs, theme park rides - both wet and dry, a tiger valley where you get to see the wild beast roam freely, and beyond that jungle trekking, caving and tunneling activities. 

Local Dishes / Cuisine

Rendang Tok

Ikan Masak Lemak Tempoyak

Tepung Pelita