Away & Away Zine: Travel

The Flowing Economics and Royal Heritage

Having the reputation of royal city, Kuala Kangsar, continue to reflect its shine as one of important district during the early days. Being the home of rubber plantation, the place have set the standard of economic development in Malaya where the establishment of the plantation site making interest among local and immigrant to come and contribute their energy for the progress of nation. As time goes by, the city slowly left its bustling busy environment, faded away leaving the memory of struggle, hardship and desire of our forefathers behind. Paint with the past colour, the city contains the history landmark of British colonial period and the rule of Sultan Idris Murshidul Azam Shah (1887 – 1916) the 28th rulers of Perak, in the late 18th century.

Kuala Kangsar, part of Perak state, located about 200KM from Kuala Lumpur capital which is connected by various transportation such as train and South – North Expressway. Among major highlight when arriving in the city such as Ubudiah Mosque that was built in 1913 as part of Sultan Idris Murshidul Azam Shah request. Designed by Arthur Benison Hubback, one of government architect based in Kuala Lumpur, it was constructed with the influence of moorish architecture and reach its completion in 1917. Besides Ubudiah, there is another mosque named Ridzuaniah, it was built with concept of an eight pointed prayer hall, wood carving and a big dome on top of it.

In 1877, Sir Hugh Low - known as the one who smuggled rubber seeds to London from Brazil, become the British resident in Perak. The seed was taken to Kew Garden in Singapore before it was post and planted in Kuala Kangsar. The event is so significance as rubber becomes the main contributor for income in Malaya during that time. Today, one of nine original seeds that been planted is still exists and become signature in the city. Other than that, a memorial dedicated for the fallen British soldier during ‘Perak War’ occurred from January 1876 until March 1887 is also part of attraction.

Have a look at other interesting spots like Iskandariah and Victoria Bridge. Both have it own uniqueness and were built for specific purpose. Then checkout other recommended site like Pavilion Tower, built in 1920, Hulu Palace - finish construct in 1903 and it was use by Sultan Idris Murshidul Azam Shah Prince, Sultan Abdul Jalil. Memorial Palace, which was built without single nail and wrap off the visitation by going to Iskandariah Palace – the home of all Perak rulers since 1933 that provide precious knowledge for the visitor. Not to forget, travel to Kuala Kangar will not be completed without a stop at local food stall to taste ‘Rojak Pasembur’ and a snack called ‘Putu’. Hey ho! lets go!

Getting There
Travel to Kuala Kangsar is quite easy as the city it is connected by PLUS South-North Highway. Other good way by taking train from Kuala Lumpur via Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) which is less cost. However, travel by train will take some time but it still the best way to go as the track will pass by the scenic site of Peninsula Malaysia.