felicia | IpohWorld's World

We thank Kuah Wei Ming for sharing this photo with us. Are you in this photo? Or, maybe you recognise a friend/family member?

May the new year bring you prosperity and good health. Xin Nian Kuai Le! from all of us at

picture courtesy of NST Happy Thaipusam, from all of us at:

….born in Singapore in 1909, went to an Anglo-Chinese School in Swatow, China, before returning to study at the Raffles Institute at age 16. He was actively supporting the Chinese by organising relief funds and the boycott of Japanese goods after the Japanese attacked in 1937. His commitment to Chinese resistance increased with the Japanese […]

We thank Prof Dr Lee Kok Onn for sharing this with us. Anyone remember this textbook?

Wishing you a very happy 2024!

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas! from all of us at:

Happy Deepavali! from all of us at:

On the occasion of the birthday of His Majesty Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah Al-Maghfur-Lah. Dirgahayu Tuanku!

Coming up this 18th November 2023 is a talk by Dr Suriati bt Ahmad (a Senior Lecturer at UiTM, Seri Iskandar, Perak). The talk is entitled: Reconsidering the World Heritage Potential For Kinta Valley Post-Industrial Mining Landscape, Malaysia. The talk will begin at 10.30am, at Mamut Room (1 Jalan Lasam, 30350, Ipoh). To […]

We thank Wai Ming Kuah for this picture. Does anyone remember this Grand Cheap Sale?

We received this from an anonymous donor. That building in the background…looks familiar, doesn’t it? Can you identify it?

…you saw/used an iMac? Better yet, do you remember the iMac G3? Let’s refresh your memory with this picture (below).

We’re pleased to announce a “new addition” to our Ipohworld collection. Yes, this is a restored Shell petrol pump, from the 1950s.

We’re 66! Can you believe it? Happy Independence Day!

Looks familiar? Some of you may already know where this place is. We’d love to hear your comments. 🙂

The St Michael’s Institution military band, somewhere in the late 1960s… I wanted to be a drummer boy, but they gave my a euphonium, so I played that instead. We thank Andrew YC Loh for the above picture and caption.

Here’s another two pictures from Mun Chor Seng. Does anyone recall this float parade? Or, perhaps you remember these unique floats?

We thank Wei Ning Kuah for sharing this picture with us. We were told that this shop was founded in 1939, and that the photo dates back to the early days before the Japanese Occupation. It is said that the original premise was along Brewster Road.

Perak Academy presents: The Universal Relevance Of Gandhi As A Principle Of Life by Prof Gollanapalli Prasad. This talk will be at Mamut Meeting Room (1st floor, no.1 Jalan Lasam, Greentown, Ipoh), at 7.45pm on Monday 21st August 2023. For more details, please contact Perak Academy: 016-4123724 or contact@perakacademy.com

We have here Chen Seong Yin and his wife to be, Briggita, posing with a trishaw – as part of their wedding photo shoot. This was taken in August 1996 at the Darling Honemoon Villa in Ipoh Garden. Did you have a unique location for your wedding photo shoot?

According to this article (from Times of Malaya & Straits Echo, dated 16 September 1950), Mr Addis took over from Sir Ralph Hone – as Deputy Commissioner-General for Colonial Affairs South-East Asia. Major-General Ralph Hone was once the Chief Civil Affairs Officer responsible for the Peninsula; this was of course during the British Military Administration.

We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this interesting envelope with us.

…at least that’s what the caption said. Doug’s new home, Govt Quarters off Gopeng Road, Ipoh, Perak, FMS I wonder if Doug liked his new home….maybe our donor (Chee Ong Ngai) could tell us 🙂

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

Back in 1987 (on the 30th on June, to be exact), this building (pictured above) was officially opened by His Majesty the Sultan of Perak Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah. Any Taiping folks here? Perhaps you might remember this…

We thank Mun Chor Seng for this photo. Here we have Ipoh’s black-and-white Amahs walking in a Wesak Day Parade. This is of course Brewster Road…and one of the shop houses in the background is none other than Lean Kap Seng’s photographic studio (which many of you may know as Scoop photo studio).

Back 1959, there was a bikini show in Ipoh. Where it was held is anyone’s guess. What we do know is, our donor (Chee Ong Ngai) found this picture at Shaw Theaters, Singapore, website. Such a show would definitely draw a lot of flak today…

We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture of Sir George Maxwell. In case you were wondering, Maxwell Road was not named after him; it was named after his brother Eric.

I’m sure this doesn’t need much explanation. We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture.

Here’s some trivia for you, taken from The Yamato News. This newspaper dates back to 13th February 2602 (which actually means 13th February 1942). We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this with us. If you’re wondering about the strange date (2602), then click here for the explanation.

This photo was not taken in Ipoh, but it is rather interesting. I’d like to draw your attention to the sign, which simply reads as: “You are now entering Malacca Settlement White Area”. Did we have “white areas” in Ipoh too at some point? We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this photo with […]

Here’s another excerpt from The Yamato Times. This one is an advertisement by P. S. Jamnadas & Co.

In conjunction with the birthday of His Majesty Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah, the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia. Daulat Tuanku!

No prizes for guessing where this was taken. However, we do thank our donor – who prefers to be called “Canning Garden” – for sharing this picture with us.

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

This is a licence from the Municipality of Ipoh to Hung Chin Ling, i.c. PK.028579 of K-2, Kepayang, Fair Park, Ipoh who has a coffee shop. The license, of course, was issued in accordance to the Sales of Food and Drugs Ordinance 1952. There were also the following conditions, which had to be adhered to: […]

Here’s a short advertisement, to join the Teacher’s Training class on May 6th. The advertisement appeared in The Times of Malaya and Straits Echo, back in 1950.

This is a photograph of one of the cars which was participating in the London to Sydney Marathon. The drivers were Rick Bates and Jenny Brittan. The cars were gathered in the centre of Ipoh, near the Municipal Building (Dataran Dewan Bandaraya Ipoh) before they took off on the next stage of the rally. One […]

Thank you for being a source of strength, guidance, happiness, and inspiration to our families every day. Our world is a brighter place with you in it! Happy Mother’s Day!

Yes, this is a sample of a 1 cent note. Some of you might remember this. (Sorry, no prizes for guessing WHOSE face is printed on the note 🙂 )

Here’s a relatively easy one. I’m sure you can guess where this is 🙂 We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this photo.

We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this one. Pardon me if I’m wrong…but are those Japanese characters, written above the English words? If so, this picture could have been taken during the Second World War (or a little after).

Here’s a shoutout to ALL our friends in the workforce. If you’ve already left the workforce, don’t worry…this day is for you too 🙂

From what we know, the first control tower at the Ipoh Airport was built in 1938. Hence, with reference to this photo below (from Edwin Seibel), could this be dated somewhere in the 1940s? Or, perhaps later…after the Second World War?

We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture. It is said to be the headquarters for the Perak Battalion of the FMSVF. (I wonder if the building is still around…)

Here’s a meeting booklet from the Perak Turf Club. (courtesy of Edwin Seibel). I noticed it said “second day”…..must have been a rather long meeting 🙂

Here’s a rare find from Chee Ong Ngai. This is the Posts & Telegraphs Office in Tanjong Rambutan. (wonder what’s become of this building…)

Yes, you read the words right. This gazebo was once part of the Ipoh Club. [see here for a different angle of the Club, with the gazebo on the right] We thank Edwin Seibel for sharing this picture with us.

We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this photograph with us. He also gave us the names of the two pretty ladies in the foreground: “1 November 1953 : The attractive Naseh sisters, Dewi (nearest camera) and Jamilah, “Hello Girls” in the Ipoh telephone exchange, find little time for chit-chat in their busy six-hour day […]

This booklet published for the use of military personnel only in May 1967 contains movies that will be screened in numerous military cinemas for example The Leowen in Terendak Camp, New Globe, and Globe. This booklet also has all the information on the day and the time of the movie and the British Forces Broadcasting […]

Yes indeed…according to this article (below) from Times of Malaya & Straits Echo.

Here’s another scene from an ACS play. This one is from Carousel, back in 1977. The pretty girl striking a ballerina pose is none other than Michelle Yeoh! We thank Ong Su-Ming for sharing this photo with us.

Some of you may have already guessed this play, merely by the “balcony scene”. 🙂 This play was organised by none other than the ACS Music and Drama Society, back in 1976. Just to refresh your memories (if you’ve watched it), the leading roles were played by Tan Seow Heng (Juliet) and Emmet O’Sullivan (Romeo). […]

Believe it or not, these children are having a blast by the Kinta River! Yes, there was a time you could swim at this river….

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

This picture was taken from the ACS centenary magazine, probably before the start of the school play. We thank our donor Ong Su-Ming.

We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture, which is part of a postcard. Here we have Market Street, from Court House Road. You can also see FMS Hotel. Incidentally, we have this postcard in our collection (along with a little history to it).

Remember these tickets? Yes? No? Perhaps you might remember the bus (see below) If I’m not mistaken, the number plate reads as AB 270….

Have you heard of Malaysia Air Charter?

We have here an example of uniforms worn by the Federation Armed Forces. From left to right: Walking-out Dress, Ceremonial No.3 Dress, and Battle Order Dress. We thank Ipoh Remembered for sharing this photo with us.

We thank our donor Ong Su-Ming for this picture, which was taken from the 100th Voyage 1895-1995 (an ACS, Ipoh magazine). Do you remember this play, back in 1952? Or, perhaps you caught the later adaptation in 1962?

Mark your calendars. Perak Academy will be hosting a talk on The Perak Royalty & Nobility, on 20th March 2023. The talk will be at 8pm, at Mamut Meeting Room (1 Jalan Lasam, 30350, Ipoh). Light refreshments will be served at 7pm. For more information, call Perak Academy at 016-412 3742 or email contact@perakacademy.com

Here’s another nostalgic photo from Chee Ong Ngai. Have you had a Cadbury lately? 🙂

When was the last time you saw such an advertisement? I for one have never come across such creativity! We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture.

Have you been to the Sinhalese Bar in Ipoh? We’d love to hear your thoughts – especially if you know something about its history 🙂 We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture.

Some of you may already recognise this at the Rex Cinema, in Kampar. We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this picture with us.

Here’s another rare find from Chee Ong Ngai. This is said to be Sikhs (from the Perak Armed Police) engaged in a game of wrestling.

According to the donor of this picture (Chee Ong Ngai), this was taken at Indera Mulia Stadium in Ipoh…back in 1985. Anyone here remember this promotional booth?

picture source: Star Online Whether you’re celebrating the 15th Day of the Lunar New Year (Chap Goh Mei)…. picture source: Star Online or Thaipusam, we wish you a joyous celebration. And remember to always stay safe!

Do you remember this school bus?

Here’s another gem from our donor Harvant Lisa Harper. Do you recognise the buildings in the background?

No, we’re not encouraging gambling. Rather, some of you may find this (picture above) a familiar sight during Chinese New Year. Let’s hear from our mahjong experts out there!

May your wishes come true, and your good fortune multiply like rabbits! from all of us at:

They may be posing at a park, but I’m sure these ladies are all dressed up for a special occasion 🙂 We thank Shuen Huey Foo for sharing this picture with us.

No, that’s not me. Rather another lad, who was obviously proud of his family car (I would presume).

Nothing like a good ‘ol Lion Dance Troupe to welcome Chinese New Year. Speaking of which, has anyone here been part of a troupe at some point in your youth? (maybe you were ‘part’ of the ‘lion’ too?) This guy certainly wanted to join in the fun! Read more here. picture source: NST online

This is how one would use a medium pole weighing scale. We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this picture.

No prizes for guessing…but I’m sure MANY of you recognise this familiar street corner!

Happy New Year! Here’s to feeling thankful for the year behind and enthusiastic for the year ahead.

No, this is not an estate manager’s bungalow. Neither is it a holiday resort. This is the Perak Armed Police Commissioner’s Quarters. We thank our donor Chee Ong Ngai for this picture. (This could be Taiping, but I could be wrong. What do you think?)

Some say he rode on a sleigh, pulled by reindeer. Then, there were sightings of him ‘jumping off a plane with a parachute‘. (see below) The REME men, however, said he ‘travelled by train‘. How did Santa deliver YOUR presents?

Here’s another one from Harwant Lisa Harper. This was Ipoh, back in 1988.

When was the last time YOU received a Christmas (or any other greeting) card?

Here’s a shout out to those travelling home for the holidays. Have a safe journey and happy holidays! We thank our donor Chee Ong Ngai for this picture. Yes, this was part of the FMS Railway…just after the Bukit Gantung Station.

We thank Chee Ong Ngai for sharing this with us. Looks like it was part of a magazine or booklet. Do you recognise it?

We thank Harvant Lisa Harper for sharing this picture with us. She also had this to say: This is the army regimen house by the Ipoh Specialist Center. It was at one time occupied by the British. My dad was the guard there. Then the Japanese took over. Before they got there, he told me […]

Here’s a rare find. I’m sure you recognise the building the in background (left). We thank Chee Ong Ngai for this gem.

If you’ve been to Temoh, you may have seen this building. No, it’s not an empty and abandoned house. It’s actually a post office. We thank Rahman Majid Khan for these interesting photos.

Does he look familiar? No? What if I told you there’s a building named after him, along Dairy Road (now known as Jalan Raja Musa Mahadi)? In case you’re still puzzled, this gentleman is none other than Prof Dato’ (Dr) Ungku Omar bin Ahmad. We don’t know much about his personal life. However, thanks to […]

This house (in Pasir Salak, Perak) was said to be built in the 1980s, to resemble the house of the late Dato Maharajalela. It later fell into a sorry state (as seen above). But, the good news is……it was later restored! If anyone could shed more light on this restoration project, we’d love to hear […]

Back in 1954, there was a charity show at the Anglo-Chinese Girls’ School. It was for a good cause – to aid the educational work among the Dayaks in Borneo. Did you catch the recital and one-act play?

When was the last time you saw this brand?

With the Malaysian General Elections just around the corner, here’s another interesting find (from the family of the late Ali Pitchay): an Oath of Secrecy, taken by election candidates!

What’s this funny looking contraption, you ask? Why, it’s a one-man battery-operated street cleansing vehicle! Back in the 1960’s Ipoh had a well deserved reputation of being the cleanest town in the Federation of Malaya….

No, I’ve not taken up architecture 🙂 This is in fact a drawing of the proposed multi-storey car park, at Station Road.

Do you recognise the background? If you do, you would know WHERE this wedding reception took place 🙂 We thank Nancy Ong for sharing this picture with us.

On the occasion of the birthday of HM Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah. Dirgahayu Tuanku!

Do you remember that time when UMNO and MCA contemplated a “grand alliance”, to contest in the Town Council Elections in Perak? Well, this article might refresh your memory…

Mark your calendars. This 7th November, Perak Academy will be hosting a talk titled: Malaysian Memilih in GE15: A Pivotal Polls. The talk will be at 8pm, at Mamut Meeting Room (1, Jln Lasam, Greentown, 30350 Ipoh). For more details, you may enquire at: contact@perakacademy.com or, WhatsApp 016-4123742

For those of you who haven’t been following the news lately, Malaysia will be going to the polls on the 19th of November 2022. That being said, here’s a sample of a Pre Independence Election poster! We thank the family of the late Mohd Ali bin Pitchay, for sharing this rare find with us.

We usually hear about historical landmarks being torn down to make way for modern structures. Here’s an old article about a famous landmark in Taiping…which was rescued!

May the light of the lamp give a new light to your life every moment. May this holy festival of lights bring happiness, peace and prosperity in your life. from all of us at:

No, this isn’t part of a circus troupe. Neither is this a Chinese New Year celebration (yes, I know some of you spotted the ‘lion’ in the background). This is actually part of the Nine Emperor Gods Festival parade. We thank our donor – Ann Kesselring Hamon – for sharing this with us. Here’s another […]

Can you believe this is Cowan Street? Hardly any traffic, save for that lone vehicle on the right. Can’t find such clear roads now though…

On the left is a flour bag from the 1970s. On the right is the same Rose Brand Flour, but in a plastic package. Other than the slight change in the logo, what else do you notice?

First he practised medicine in Penang before he moved to Ipoh in 1912, becoming the first Asian with a Western medical degree in Perak. His new clinic was at Tatlock Street; two decades later, a new central market was built in the area, which helps explain why Tatlock Street is now called Hala Pasar Baru. […]

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Is it a bird…is it a plane…..? No, they are most likely staring at the Birch Clock Tower. The gentleman (holding some papers) is none other than Rev J Appaduray. The boys in the background are students from St Michael’s Insitution. Here’s another picture of the group: (read the full story here)

This was an interesting find – learning Japanese (or, Nipponese) via a booklet. It came with Romanised Malay translation too. Does anyone remember such a book?

Have you heard of the Lions Club? From what we know: The first Lions Club in Malaysia, the Lions Club of Kuala Lumpur (Host), was opened on the 18th of February 1959. District 308 of the Lions and Leo Club encompasses 3 countries, namely Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei. Within the district itself, there are 4 […]

During the early days of radio broadcasting, the ability for a radio set to receive distant signals was a source of pride for many consumers and hobbyists. Listeners would mail “reception reports” to radio broadcasting stations in hopes of getting a written letter to officially verify they had heard a distant station. As the volume […]

Remember what your old passports looked like, back in the 1960s and 70s? Now that international borders have been opened, many of you would want to travel. Make sure your passport is up to date…

We thank Gary Au Yong for this picture. Seems like the pilot is making a final inspection before the plane leaves the airport. Yes, in case you didn’t recognise the building in the background…this is, of course, the Ipoh Airport.

I’m going to go out on a limb, and say that this picture probably dates back to the 1950s? Could be later, though. We’d love to hear your thoughts – especially if you can translate the caption 🙂

The picture may not be clear, but we believe this to be Chamberlain Road. When was the last time you saw a bullock cart passing through one of Ipoh’s busy streets?

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…that the Parit Independence Clock Tower was put up not only in honour of Independence Day but also to declare Perak Tengah as the centre for Malay culture? From what we know, it was built in 1959; and it was officiated by the country’s first Prime Minister.

I’m sure many of you recognise this corner building 🙂 Do you remember the tea stall outside (as pictured above)? (picture courtesy of Hovid)

Here’s a receipt from Looi Teik Lan Service Station. The address is given as 248 Brewster Road, Ipoh. A quick search on Google Maps showed that the above address is now the Petron petrol station. Does anyone know if the premise still belongs to the same owner (of Looi Teik Lan service station)? Or, perhaps […]

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Looks like the YMCA is all set for Merdeka celebrations. Have you put up your flag(s) yet?

This is a Federated Malay States Gilt Railway Police Cap Badge; a five–pointed star shaped with ‘F M S Railway Police’ between two circles and surrounding a tiger in centre. Have you seen a badge like this before?

We thank Ganesh Kolandaveloo for sharing this lovely poster with us. Have you seen such posters before? Were they part of a series, perhaps?

This is said to be a Staff Photo, from 1955. We thank Gary Au Yong for this gem 🙂

We thank Gary Au Yong for this picture. It was taken on 25 April 1953. This is said to be the Perak Hoteliers’ Association at Fu Heng’s 3rd anniversary.

This photograph shows Fujiwara Iwaichi with Captain M. Akram, adjutant to General Mohan Singh, at Fujiwara Kikan headquarters at the Anderson School, Ipoh, on 5th January 1942. The military headquarters was established by Fujiwara Kikan, the military intelligence agency, on New Year’s Day 1942. The building also served as the headquarters of Indian Independence League […]

This photograph reproduced from ‘Imperial Patriot’, shows a ceremony at the Ipoh Club to mark the first anniversary of declaration of World War I on 4 August 1915.

With a heavy heart, we say goodbye to Dato’ Ng Boon Bee DPTJ AMN. He was a Malaysian badminton player, whose success in doubles earned him recognition as one of greatest doubles players in badminton history. Ng Boon Bee is probably the finest sportsman to come out of SMI, being one of the stars of […]

Looks like a beautiful painting, doesn’t it? This postcard shows the hot springs at Tambun, Ipoh. It was posted to France on 28 August 1913. It shows three men in front of the geyser; behind the geyser are the famed Limestone cliffs of the Kinta Valley. This, of course, is a Kaulfuss postcard 🙂

We thank Ann Kesselring Hamon for sharing this picture with us. We believe this was taken when the Chinese Methodist Church first opened, back in 1954. Could anyone tell us where this place is?

This particular document is a certificate of Registration which declares that from the 22nd of August 1958 onwards, Madam Ong would be a citizen of the Federation of Malaya under Article 17. The officer which signed this certificate on behalf of the registration authority was H. Perera as stated in the document. (more details here)

The month of August is usually known as “bulan Merdeka” (Merdeka/Independence Month). But did you also know that the earliest cinematograph first came to Ipoh in August 1906? Initially the cinematograph market was monopolized by one company, the Matsuo Japanese Cinematograph Company, who used to hold nightly shows in a tent for 7-weeks running, moving […]

Here’s a comparison of F&N bottles over the years. If I’m not mistaken, the first bottle is from the 1940s. The one in the centre may have come out a few years later. The last one of course is today’s modern creation.

The photograph actually shows the ‘First Battalion Perak Sikhs’, the armed military arm of the Perak Police Force. The Battalion had its roots in the ‘Perak Armed Force’ which was a mix of races (Sikhs, Punjabi, Malays and Chinese), first commanded by Captain Swinburne and from 1879 by Major R S F Walker CMG. The […]

This was what the Japanese Garden (sponsored by the Perak Turf Club) once looked like. Of course, this picture was taken back in the 1980s. Sadly, this lovely tourist spot fell under poor maintenance and neglect over the years. It even fell prey to vandals 🙁 I don’t know what has become of this place […]

Have you heard of this brand? Well, apparently they made ship clocks…like this one:

What’s so special about this ashtray, you ask? Well, it’s made from an artillery shell! We believe it’s from 1942; there were some numbers engraved at the bottom, which has faded over the years.

Did your sharp eyes see that famous symbol on the hill? Look again carefully, if you missed it 🙂 We thank Edwin Seibel for sharing this photo with us.

Here’s an advertisement from the 1970s. While most of us have heard of Duckhams motor oil, have you heard of Hargill Engineering Sdn Bhd?

Have you heard of Ahmad Noor? Perhaps you knew him as Halaloedin Hamzah? He was a Mandailing from the Dutch East Indies who free-lanced for Kompas in the early days of his career. He fled and sought refuge in Malaya, when the Dutch authorities cracked down on railway strikers in 1929, in which he was […]

The people of Ipoh had an opportunity to witness an aeroplane for the first time on July 1 1911! G P Kuller – one of the earliest aviators – staged a 4-day flight exhibition in Ipoh. Thousands congregated at the race course, with 150 Europeans occupying the 1st and 2nd class seats. The 3rd and […]

We thank Ipoh Remembered for this advertisement, which of course is from Cold Storage Ltd. Here’s an idea for the weekend – indulge in your preferred flavour of ice cream (with your favourite toppings too!)

This receipt no. 627, dated 14th June 1957 was issued by Canning Garden Estate Ltd. to acknowledge the payment of $1000 deposit for the purchase of a property Block L No. 17 Type TH2 house at Canning Garden Estate, Ipoh by Miss Wong and Madam Chang. It was signed by the manager of Canning Garden Estate […]

There was once a shop called Wing Sang Hong Sdn Bhd, at 22 Hugh Low Street. According to the above receipt, a transaction took place in the 1980s. I don’t know what has happened to this business (nor do I know what business it was). In its place today is a branch of the Sai […]

Here’s a Then & Now comparison, of telephone bills. One the left is a Talikom bill from 1965, while on the right is a TM (Telekom Malaysia) bill dated 12 April 2020.

The Gurkhas from Nepal were an integral part of the British Army as they fought side by side during the difficult periods of Malayan history, which included conflict against the Japanese troops in World War Two, the communist insurgents in the emergency era and the Confrontation Period with Indonesia in Borneo. Each year on the […]

We credit this photo to Lakhbir Singh Bedi. The scene, of course, is the Tanjong Rambutan railway station.

This picture was taken from a press article (from New Straits Times), dated 30 June 1987. It shows the Ngah Ibrahim Fort at Matang, about 10km from Taiping, which has been turned into a historical show-piece by the Museum Department – with the addition of a mini-museum. So, now you know what happened to the […]

On the occasion of His Majesty’s birthday, DYMM Seri Paduka Baginda Yang Di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah.

Here’s a 1980s picture of Malim Nawar Village. Anyone been to Malim Nawar lately? Maybe you could tell us if this stall is still around… We thank Marea Smith for sharing this with us.

Here’s another picture which was featured in our Falim Exhibition, back in 2013. This is said to be a Chinese ice cream seller. I wonder how he kept the ice cream cold…

This was one of the pictures used in our Falim Exhibition a few years ago. Has anyone tried this – Dim Sum and F&N? I usually have my Dim Sum with hot tea….to each their own, I suppose.

Here’s another look at the Ipoh Railway Station; this one shows part of the garden, and what seems to be the Ipoh Tree perhaps?

Here’s another one from the Watson album. We were told that this was taken at the Ipoh Club.

We thank Conrad Pregrave-Payne for the above picture. We believe that the gentleman in the dark suit is Sir R. G. Watson (Resident of Perak). The venue of course is the Kinta Club, which catered to both horse racing and golf.

We’ve always featured old photos of this famous bridge. Here’s something new – from V Radnell. Yes, it’s non other than the Hugh Low Bridge (now known as the Sultan Iskandar Bridge). This is a recent view, probably a year or two ago.

From the number plate, we can safely assume that this picture was taken before WW2. I’ll leave this here for all the classic car lovers….

No, this is not a creepy, haunted mansion. It was once owned by Dato Setia (from what our donor tells us). It was also once used as an Islamic School (either before or after the Japanese Occupation in Malaya). We thank Eugene Lee for this gem.

Not too long ago (in the 1990s), the Perak Postal Services Department started a special express letter service between Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur. There were two dispatches daily except on Sundays and public holidays and letters would reach the same day. The letters will be given special treatment and sent by the first available means. […]

We thank Eugene Lee for this picture. Can you guess which street this is (maybe also the year)? 🙂

On this day in 1935, Towkay Leong Sin Nam was forwarded a medal – in commemoration of the Silver Jubilee of Their Majesties the late King George V and Queen Mary. We thank Dr Leong Oon Keong (the grandson of Leong Sin Nam) for sharing these pictures with us.

How’s this for a lovely family photograph? We’re guessing this was taken during Hari Raya. In the picture are Jaafar and whom we believe to be his grandchildren. Don’t they look great in their baju Raya?

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We thank LingLi Tan for sharing this picture with us. Maybe someone familiar with Teluk Anson (or Teluk Intan, as it is called now) could tell us more 🙂

With Raya round the corner, many will be travelling back to their hometowns this year. Of course, such kampong houses (like the ones above) may no longer be around…but they were once a common sight.

Dr Wu Lien-Teh Education Society Malaysia and Wu Lien-Teh Institute, Harbin Medical University, China would like to invite you to a Zoom Webinar. Date: Apr 28, 2022 Time:01:00 PM – 03:00 PM Kuala Lumpur Tittle: Dr Wu Lien-Teh International Conference 2022 Register in advance for this webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bMrsXp6vTn-dVUqd9lY8lQ After registering, you will receive a confirmation […]

We’ve heard of Elvis impersonators. Some of them sound almost like the late King of Rock and Roll….almost. Here is a Yul Brynner impersonator.

Yes, believe it or not…this is an early view of Anderson Road. We believe it’s very early 1900.

No, this is not a scene from the floods 😉 It is in fact an entourage crossing the Perak River. This picture was taken in 1913, and can be found in the G.C.V.O. booklet. The booklet records the celebration week that to place to mark the award of the Sultan of Perak with the Royal […]

This is 1 of 4 of the hand painted posters, measuring 81cm x 100cm, produced in 1961 for the Visit Malaya in Orient promotion. Does anyone recall seeing any of these posters around the town in the 1960s?

We thank Philip LaBrooy for sharing the above article with us. Unfortunately, we’re not sure of the date of this article (nor the newspaper it was taken from). This is a list of historical buildings, monuments and sites compiled by the Museums Department. Here’s a close-up of the Perak column:

This picture is taken from a Werf Conrad Tin Dredges Catalogue. Here’s a close up of a dredge, showing the dredge buckets. The picture below shows a dredge bucket, from two different angles.

The above badge has the words “Christian Brothers’ Schools” and “Signum Fidei” clearly printed on it, one at the bottom of the badge and the other at the top. In between there is an image of Peninsula Malaysia as well as a figure of a Catholic Brother. At the top end of the image of […]

This picture was taken at the Ipoh Town Hall, where the 1st UMNO Perak meeting was held. It was chaired by none other than Dato Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab, way back in 1946.

Here’s another picture from Eugene Lee. This one shows an old building in Taiping. Does anyone recognise it?

This is an advertisement from a 1967 newspaper (The Straits Times). Any fans of F&N here? Which was your favourite flavour?

The photograph shows the inside of the Supreme Court with the President of the Court, Lieutenant Colonel J G Adams seated in the Judge’s seat and a number of court officials positioned around the room.

I’ve heard of Shangri-La Hotel…but not Shangri-La Restaurant. Has anyone been there? What was their signature dish?

We thank Eugene Lee for sharing these pictures with us. This is said to be the Royal English School, in Batu Gajah. Probably dating back to 1916. In Eugene’s words, “It’s now left half abandoned and most of the building is left empty. The beams at the porch have cracks in them that need to […]

We have here a tin of Ovaltine teething rusks. According to our donor (Mr Chan Hoe Cheng), this tin is about 55 years old!

Here’s another photo from Conrad Presgrave-Payne – the grandson of Sir R G Watson. We believe the lady seated extreme right is none other than Lady Watson herself. This photo was taken at the Ipoh Gymkhana Club, probably back in 1913.

We thank Shyamala Manoharan for this lovely picture. This picture was taken at a birthday party, at the Ashby Road Transit Quarters, in the 1960s. Incidentally, as our donor tells us, this ice cream seller served ice cream at many a party there.

The picture shows a Chinese Hawker peddling medicines while sitting cross-legged in the street, in front of the 5 foot way. Behind him there is a clock shop and to his right what would appear to be a hardware shop or general store… I wonder…was this a common sight back in the day?

According to The Straits Echo & Times of Malaya, dated Monday 15th of March 1954, Tungku Abdul Rahman (President of UMNO), Dato Sir Cheng-lock Tan (President of MCA), and Mr K.L Devaser (leader of MIC) addressed over 500 members of the Perak State Alliance at the Yue Hua School building in Brewster Road. (read more […]

We thank Charlie Choong for sharing these pictures with us. Can you guess which street this carnival passed through?

I’m sure you know which street this is 😉

We have here a picture from Conrad Presgrave-Payne – the grandson of Sir R G Watson. The estimated date is 1914, when Sir R G Watson was on a tour of Perak. Anyone here travel via elephant before? I haven’t…but I have sat on a ostrich once 🙂

We thank Edwin Siebel for sharing this picture with us. Yes, it is none other than the E W Birch Fountain 🙂

The Straits Times on Thursday 25th of February 1954, while covering the Hussars Cup, reported that St. Michael’s Institution (SMI) whipped visitors Guru Nanak Institution six-nil in a first round tie in the Perak inter-school knockout soccer competition. In another first round tie, home side Anderson School trounced Junior Technical Trade School five-nil.

Here’s a familiar villa 🙂 What’s even more interesting is the interior – where once there was a portrait of the owner! (picture below) We thank Lennie Brookes for sharing these pictures with us.

Here’s another picture from Ipoh: The Town that Tin Built. This is an early shot of the famed Waller Court flats.

According to Ipoh: The Town that Tin Built, this is part of the Canning Garden housing estate. Any idea which section of Canning Garden this is?

Here’s a picture of the Hon. Mr R. G. Watson, British Resident of Perak. This picture was taken from the G.C.V.O. Week booklet, published around 1914. This booklet is an account of the celebrations at Kuala Kangsar from 21st-28th September 1913, to mark the presentation to His Highness the Sultan of Perak of the insignia […]

Did it serve ‘western food’? Or, was this just a nickname? If you know more about this ‘western restaurant’ do let us know 🙂 ps: This advertisement can be found in a Chinese New Year booklet, produced by Odeon Theatre.

If there’s one thing I look forward to during Chinese New Year, it’s probably the Chinese movies featured on TV 😉 I’ve not seen this movie – Pursuit of a Killer – but I’m sure some of you have. We have here a scan of the synopsis as well as a promotional still from the […]

Greetings for the Year of the Tiger! Picture courtesy of Ho Hoo Wan.

Does this street look familiar? Well, if it does…do let us know WHERE in Ipoh this is 🙂 The above picture was taken from “Ipoh: The Town that Tin Built”

As a follow-up to our previous post, here’s another picture of the aforementioned fountain – which can be found within a locked garden, at the Ipoh General Hospital (Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun). We thank Edwin Seibel Nathan for the above picture.

We thank Anthony H S Law for sharing this picture on Facebook. He also added: “Water Fountain …. This must be the forgotten Ipoh’s oldest, the rare and perhaps the only fountain of Ipoh city. Dated 1900 or 122 years old, the fountain was “PRESENTED BY LOW FOO ESQ TO THE IPOH HOSPITAL” Maker : […]

Did you know Boon Pharmacy had their very own Eau de Cologne? Boon Pharmacy was run by the Chew family, as many of you know. Incidentally, the family were neighbours with the LaBrooys.

The word Thaipusam is a combination of the name of the month, Thai, and the name of a star, Pusam. This particular star is at its highest point during the festival. The festival commemorates the occasion when Parvati gave Murugan (aka Kartikeya) a Vel “spear” so he could vanquish the evil demon Soorapadman and his brothers. It is also commonly believed that Thaipusam marks Murugan’s birthday; though some […]

No, this is not a picture of the recent floods that hit us. This picture is actually from 1967, in Kuala Kangsar. Can’t believe the water level rose that much….

The above picture shows the Ipoh Town Council’s new cleaning lorries. These lorries were used back in 1960s, of course. The advertisement below may give you a better view of them. These pictures were taken from Ipoh: The Town that Tin Built (1962)

This document dates back to 4 January 2602 (1942). We believe it is some form of proof that the Japanese Government (in Malaya) at that time found favour with Ali Pitchay and his family. Perhaps they (Japanese) viewed the family as comrades, and may have offered protection to them. Note that this document was torn […]

They say it’s rude to ask a woman her age. This “lady” pictured above, however, is proud to announce her 115th birthday 🙂 Yes, Ipoh’s HIJ Convent is a hundred and fifteen years old today!

…the Old Michaelian’s Association (OMA) was first formed. Yes, way back in 1933. The picture featured below, however, was taken a year later – on the occasion of the opening of the Association’s premises.

Yes, folks! An 8km foot trail, with 32 stops, is expected to be launched in two months. This trail will be called the Ipoh Cantonese Heritage Trail. (read more here)

New Sunday Times, February 8, 1987 – A London diary from Rehman Rashid – A book written by John Anderson the official translator to the British Government during the nineteenth century who was charged with forcing the official liaison between the Government and the Malay Kings. In the course of his duties, Mr. Anderson had […]

And there’s a hand, my trusty fiere! And gie’s a hand o’ thine! And we’ll tak a right guid willy waught, For auld lang syne. For auld lang syne, my jo, For auld lang syne. We’ll tak a cup o’ kindness yet, For auld lang syne. (extract from Auld Lang Syne, a poem by […]

Here’s an interesting find – a membership card for the People’s Progressive Party! Also note the signature of a VERY prominent historical figure….

I admit, what first caught my eye was the words “Dancing…Time for a Tiger”. Probably from one of the sponsors of the competition. Does anyone remember this competition? Perhaps you were one of the dancers? Or maybe you know who the winners were. Did the organisers have more of such competitions after 1954?

Merry Christmas to you, from all of us at IpohWorld 🙂 The above picture (from Michael Ho) was taken at a Christmas party, back in 1970. The party was held at the Catholic Centre.

All set for that big Christmas feast? Will there be the traditional roast? Or, perhaps you’re doing something different this year. Maybe a vegetarian menu? Anyway, here’s a Christmas menu from 1959. We thank Keith Nelson for sharing this with us.

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

Here’s another puzzle for you – Sharikat Lam Chuan Co. Was it a textile store? Or, an emporium?

According to the donors of this photograph; “18 December 1956, was a day of heavy rainfall all the way from Tapah to Cameron Highlands. As the 2 Troop C Squadron of the 15/19 The Kings Royal Hussars (TKRH) were heading up in a 12-truck convoy the troopers in the leading Saracen Armoured Personal Carrier came […]

Have you heard of this company? Was it a boutique? Or perhaps a hair salon? Maybe even a tailor shop? In case the writing isn’t clear on the paper bag, the address was 107 Jalan Lau Pak Khuan, Ipoh Garden.

Here’s an eco-friendly tip: Use paper bags (such as the one shown above) or bring your own reusable bags when shopping. 🙂 When was the last time you saw a Whiteaways’ bag like this one?

…well, belated birthday actually. Nevertheless, birthday greetings to St Michael’s Institution (SMI) – born on 4th December 1912. Here’s a 1920s drawing of the school, which was in an old Malay bungalow.

The one on the left was taken around 1955 (thanks to our donor Charlie Choong). The one on the right is a screenshot from Google Maps, taken today. Yes, it is the same street 🙂

A Rumah Kutai only has one spacious room, with additional rooms being created by hanging cloth between the pillars. It is built for comfort in the Malay style and the tradition of sharing. Have you ever seen / lived in a Rumah Kutai?

Perak Academy invites you to a talk by Prof Wang Gungwu on his growing up years. The memories of his childhood and education years, that moulded the man to what he is today – renowned historian, sinologist, writer, his works on Chinese diaspora, the countless awards conferred on him for research done on particular subjects […]

Here’s a group photograph with Dato Seri Yuen Yuet Leng and Datin Seri Yuen, and Staff of the Aulong Police Station. This was taken on 12th December 1979.

Here’s one from 1985, taken at the opening of Wisma Taiko in Ipoh. I’m sure many of you recognise the VIPs in this photo 🙂

We received this lovely photo from Eric Low. He’s hoping for any information regarding the young people in the above photo. In his own words: Once upon a time there was this band in Ipoh who called themselves “The Rain People” (**) … The 1968 or 1969 picture below was taken in one of the […]

The photograph shows the wedding day of John Arthur Stuart Jennings and Rose Winnifred Jennings, which took place at St George’s Church, George Town, Penang on November 10th 1910. What did YOU wear to your wedding? 🙂

Ever owned a radio like this? What were your favourite radio stations/frequencies?

Yes, this is part of the famous Ipoh Padang. And the building in the background is of course the Ipoh Club. This was taken off a postcard, which seemed to date back to 1912. Hence, we believe this picture was taken around 1910.

Did you know that the Perak Sultan once had bodyguards comprising members of the Mounted Police? Here’s an article from Harchand Singh Bedi, which appeared in The Star recently. HRH Sultan Abdul Jalil, the Sultan of Perak, and his consort surrounded by their Sikh bodyguards comprising members of the Mounted Police from the Federated Malay […]

Those of you who are familiar with Armistice Day (or Poppy Day) would know that it falls on the 11th of Nov. The Armistice, an agreement to end the fighting of the First World War as a prelude to peace negotiations, began at 11am on 11 November 1918. Armistice is Latin for to stand (still) arms. As […]

No, not a variant of Red Cross 😉 This is in fact a paper bag advertising Blue Cross condensed milk. We thank Ipoh Remember for this picture. Does anyone remember this brand?

May your festival of lights celebrations be fun, safe, and spiritual. Wishing you a bright and joyous Diwali. from all of us at

Yes, you read that right. This was the view of the town, from the Old Residency.

Would anyone like to identify this black beauty?

We thank Charlie Choong for these photographs. These were taken during a parade in Ipoh. Could it have been during the Nine Emperor Gods festival? Can you guess the year?

We thank Mun Chor Seng for sharing this picture with us. Yes, it’s Gopeng Pipeline! (and we believe the handsome young man in the picture is none other than our donor, of course)

Heard of this brand? I haven’t…probably from before my time 😉 I thought it was rather interesting that the saucers are printed in 4 languages.

This year on 21st March 1989 marks another milestone in the history of Perak. It was the signing of the declaration to accord twin-city status to Ipoh and Fukuoka of Japan. The declaration is expected to strengthen the bonds of friendship between Japan and Malaysia. It paves a new era of strong economic and industrial cooperation […]

According to this advertisement (from 1988), this place offered a “City Day Special”. Does anyone remember where Cowboy’s Inn was? And, perhaps what’s become of the place?

Here’s another blast from the past – rickshaws in a row, in Taiping nonetheless. 🙂

Dated 1st July 1983, this article mentions the Sun Cinema making its way for a skyscraper. Do any of you remember that fateful day?

At 21, he inherited his father’s estate. His enterprising approach and advantageous connections combined to bring him early and continued success as a miner. In 1898 he contributed $1000 to establish the Perak Mining and Planting Association. He developed eight mines in Kinta : two at Kampar, three in Gopeng, and one each at Papan, […]

Believe it or not, this picture was taken in the late 1800s in Taiping. Bet the experts have already identified these buildings 🙂

No, I’m not making fun of the name. The original caption for the picture below actually reads as “General View of Mine at Meng Lembu”. I do wonder how this name came about…and when it changed to its present name….

picture source: Star Online Yes, you heard it right! Buntong is not only famous for kacang puteh, they have bean sprouts too! Read more here.

Thanks to Chor Seng Mun, we have a lovely photo of the Gopeng Market. From all those flags/posters above the arch, I’m sure some of you can guess what was going on at that time 🙂

The caption at the top left corner reads as: 192 Anson Road, Teluk Anson. Built in 1900. Sold in 1955. I think the artist did a pretty good job, don’t you?

Wishing you a Happy Mid-Autumn Festival. From all of us at IpohWorld 🙂

Why is the title of this post as such? Well, here’s an interesting story by Francis Cheah regarding his paternal grandparents – in particular, his paternal grandfather. A millionaire building contractor, family sources said he helped Ah Cheong build the iconic Clock Tower. He was 30+yrs then. Being a successful contractor he built the Teluk […]

Here’s an early 1900s view of the Ipoh Station. So different from what it looks like today, eh?

The first issue came out on 4 July 1894; a quarto 4-page bi-weekly edition, which evolved into a 4-page folio journal. By 1 January 1901, the Pioneer was converted into a tri-weekly issue – which soon expanded into 6 pages. By 1 March 1905, this paper transformed in a daily paper. It had 8 pages, […]

This picture needs no introduction. Wonder what happened to the cars once this business ceased operation….

We have here a lovely 1957 photo from Mohd Taib, showing part of Hugh Low Street. HAPPY MERDEKA to all of you, from all of us at Ipohworld!

In the early 1900s, these ten gentlemen formed the Perak State Council. They were: Raja Chulan bin ex-Sultan Abdullah Mr R. J. Wilkinson (Secretary of the Resident) Mr E. W. Birch, C.M.G. (British Resident) Towkay Foo Choo Choon Mr C. W. H. Cochrane (Assistant Secretary to the Resident, Clerk to the Council) HH Sultan of […]

Here’s another picture of the Teluk Intan district hospital….taken during a flood.

Here are two rare pictures of the Teluk Intan District Hospital. I’m sure some of you can guess which year these were taken 🙂

The caption says it all, really. Special thanks to “Daerah Batang Padang” – a Facebook page, where we found this rare picture. When was the last time you took a group photograph at a railway station platform? 🙂

Here’s an early 1900s view – of what a policeman wore back then! Too bad this picture is not in colour…

This picture was taken from a 1990 souvenir magazine. (Do ignore the red arrow 🙂 ) Do you recognise some of the iconic buildings shown here? Can you identify which part of Ipoh this is?

We have here Mrs Southwell, ‘flexing her muscles’ as it were. She must have been really strong, to attempt pushing a Triumph Vitesse Six! Looking on is her husband R. J. Southwell. This picture was taken back in 1966, during the Triumph Owners’ Club (TOC) Gymkhana.

Fancy owning a bungalow near Fair Park? Or, perhaps one along Kampar Road? If you’re on a tight budget, maybe you could go for one of the “440 cheap dwelling houses” in Kepayang. What really caught my eye was the last line: “You can buy and live in a comfortable home in the Cleanest Town […]

Here’s a virtual treat for you – Van Houten’s finest milk chocolate 🙂 While doing a little spring cleaning at home, I stumbled upon this tin (which my late grandmother used for her trinkets). I’m going to make a guess and say that this tin probably dates back to the 1970s. I could be wrong […]

We extend our condolences to the family of the late Datuk Dr Leong Chee Woh (former Royal Malaysian Police Special Branch Unit chief). Leong died on 18th July from a stroke. He was 92. Leong Chee Woh was born in Taiping, Perak, on 11th November 1929. His first job after leaving school was as a […]

Do you know them? Perhaps you may recognise some of these ladies. We welcome any information – especially if you can translate the caption for us 🙂 Was this the era when the “beehive” hairstyle was all a rage? 😉

Here’s an easy one for you: Do you know which building this is? It’s in Ipoh, of course 🙂

Here we have the Mercantile Bank building, all lit up for the big day back in 1963. I’m sure you history-buffs know WHAT the big event was 🙂 Photo courtesy of: Ruth Iversen Rollitt

…and now, a word from our sponsors 🙂 Jokes aside, anyone here owned/rode an Ariel Motorcycle? We thank Ipoh Remembered for sharing this advertisement with us.

A long long time ago, there was a wooden temple built onto the side of a limestone cliff. It had a zinc roof. Members of the Perak Heritage Society had visited the place in October 2007. It was located at a limestone hill halfway between Tambun town and Tanjung Rambutan. This modern structure has since […]

This picture was said to have been taken during an Ipoh Motor meet – on the occasion of the formation of the Perak Automobile Club, back in 1907.

This picture, taken back in the early 1900s, shows Malay house-boats on the Perak River. Has anyone been in a house-boat before? If not in Malaysia, perhaps in another country?

The Straits Trading Company (STC) was established in 1886 by two partners, James Sword of Glasgow, Scotland and Hermann Muhlinghaus an entrepreneur from Wiesbaden, Germany. The partnership was formed to set up a tin smelting business in Malaya to meet the obvious demand for a large and efficient smelting business to replace all the small, […]

Here’s a picture of Kinta Ice Works, probably taken around 1905. Shaik Adam (the founder of Kinta Aerated Water Factory of Taiping, Kampar and Ipoh) established the Kinta Ice Works. This establishment boasted a large plant which churned out tons of ice daily. It was managed by Ted Hodges, brother of the Perak district surveyor.

We thank Bee Leong for allowing us to share one of his photos here. Yes, there seems to be a tiger riding in the trishaw…and the cyclist seems to be part of the entourage! Who said animals don’t travel in style? 🙂

We have here a 1987 article about how Taiping got its name. Special thanks to our donor Lim Bor Seng. According to the article, Taiping was established in 1874 after the end of the Larut War which marked peace between the mining groups at war – the Hai San warriors (led by Capitan Chung Ah […]

Here’s another picture from a magazine. This was taken during the Triumph Owner’s Club AGM, back in 1966. The meeting was held at the Century Motors Ltd Showroom in Ipoh. Do you recognise anyone here? Guests aside, what really caught my eye were the chairs; they don’t make chairs like these anymore, do they?

This photo was taken during the 1980 HRH Sultan of Perak’s Castrol-TOC Motorkhana. The ‘stuntman’ is none other than Adrian Boudville, who drove his Citroen BLINDFOLDED! For those who a suffering from boredom during this MCO, PLEASE DO NOT try this.

We thank Ho Hoo Wan for this photo, taken in 1959. Do you recognise anyone here? We’d love to know more. This was taken in Batu Gajah, by the way…at the Sultan Yussuf School.

Heartiest congratulations and best wishes on the birthday of His Majesty Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah. Dirgahayu Tuanku!

Our condolences to the family of the late Joe Chin – who was once part of the Fabulous Falcons. Click here to read a lovely tribute to this musician.

Correct me if I’m wrong…seems like this advertisement is offering a special teapot to go with the Red Label Tea. (or, perhaps I’m reading it wrong?).

Here’s an advertisement from Charles Grenier & Co Ltd. Are you an avid reader? What was the last book you read? Do you prefer fiction or non-fiction? I personally enjoy fiction 🙂

…Ipoh was declared a city! Here’s one memorable newspaper cutting of the celebrations. (more samples can be found here)

Ever had one of these school bags when you were younger? I confess that I’ve never had one of these; by the time I started school, I recall Swan brand school bags were all a rage 🙂

When Dad finished his Junior Cambridge Examination in ACS in the early 1930s at aged 17, he was highly educated in English in those days. He could easily get a comfortable Civil Service clerical job but he was adventurous & easy going. He got his first job as a Page Boy in a local hotel. […]

We thank our donor (Tom Turnbull) for this photo – apparently showing a “road to nowhere“. We believe this to be somewhere in Tronoh…

This photograph shows a view of the first timber building of the Anglo-Chinese School (Ipoh) at Lahat Road. Completed in May 1896. Amazing, innit! 😉

Celebrations have been muted this year, due to the MCO. However, we’d like to share an old photograph of what seems to be a Hari Raya party. On the back of this photograph are the words: “Hari Raya Dinner 10th May 1958, MJC ”

Here’s a 1958 advertisement from F&N / Red Lion, courtesy of Ngai C O. It’s the second day of Hari Raya…have you had your favourite F&N drink yet? 🙂

from all of us at

Engraved ‘Snooker League’ on the front and ‘Ipoh 1946’ on the reverse, this was probably awarded to the winner of the local snooker league that year. Have you heard of this Snooker League?

There are different ways of cooking mee. The most common are by frying, by stewing and by steeping it in boiling water for a few minutes and transferring it to a cold bath. If we wish to have the mee fried or boiled, we add meat or fish and some spices to make it tasty. […]

Have you heard of this brand of hair oil? Was it sold in shops…or was it an exclusive product at barbers/hair dressers?

This is an invoice addressed to Towkay Chew Chooi Kooi of Teluk Anson (Teluk Intan), showing a rough quotation for a cement foundation. Included also are charges for cement and piling. This invoice is dated 6th May 1929. Also note the unique stationery it was written on…

It is called “songkok” in the Ethnic Malay cultural sphere in the Malay peninsula, Sumatra, and coastal Borneo. However in Java it is called “kopiah” or “kopeah”. In Indonesia it also known nationwide as “peci”. The name “peci” was probably derived from the Dutch word petje means “small hat”. Whatever the name they are all […]

We thank Ngai C O for sharing this advertisement with us. How many of you remember this 1954 model?

Ever since the corona virus hit our shores, there’s been a constant need to keep a check on our movements; for our own safety, of course. However, this is not the first instance where movements were monitored. Here’s a sample of a record for movement of persons, from 1956. This record was necessary to control […]

This is a receipt issued by University of Malaya Endowment Fund on 11th October 1949, for the amount $1. The fund was in support of the construction of one of the first buildings in the University of Malaya. Donations were made by “buying” a building brick for the cost of $1. (read more here)

This bulletin called Young Malaysians was published on Wednesday, 23rd November 1949. There are a number of journals and essays in this bulletin and one of them was the “Trade Training for a Career” read more here

This picture was taken four months after Malaya won the Thomas Cup, in 1949. This is a tribute to the late HH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh – who is on the extreme left, shaking hands with the badminton heroes Chan Kon Leong, Yeoh Teck Chye and Teoh Seng Khoon.

When was the last time you had a nice cold drink of Kickapoo? 🙂

This letter was sent from S.Seenivasagam, Advocates and Solicitors Ipoh to S.A.A.Lathif, Proprietor of the Lathif Store in Batu Gajah on the 24th April 1930. Of course, we all dread receiving a lawyer’s letter…but this particular letter was from a very famous law firm 😉

Don’t worry. We’re not reporting you to the Inland Revenue Board 😉 Instead, here’s an income tax receipt from 1959. I wonder if they still issue such receipts, now that everything is done electronically…

PS Maniam, as he was fondly known as, was Headmaster of Anglo-Chinese School (ACS) in the mid 70s. We at Ipohworld extend our heartfelt condolences to his family.

According to this article, Pearl Gardens was off Ashby Road (also known as Jalan Hospital). Anyone know which part of Ashby Road it was?

Here’s another photograph from Ruth Iversen Rollitt’s collection. This 1950s photo shows “Margaret Ladies Hair Dressing Salon”, which was said to be in Canning Estate. Does anyone remember this house/salon?

Some of you may have already guessed which building this is. For those who are still wondering, we’ll give you a tiny clue: this picture was taken in 1932 (according to our donor), and it was designed by the same person who designed Lido Cinema 🙂

Yes, I’m not kidding. There was such an association in existence in the early 1900s. Why do I say early 1900s? Because we got this gem from the book “Twentieth Century Impressions of British Malaya”, 1908.

Our donor (Charlie Choong) told us that these were taken during a carnival. Can you guess which part of town this is? I admit, I’m stumped 🙁

SMI’s badge had an excess of symbols: the Fleur di Lis of France, the Irish Shamrock, the British crown, the lamp of learning, a monogram of the school’s name, a Malaysian sunrise and the star is repeated. (read more here) SMI students, past and present, we’d like to hear your thoughts! 🙂

Yes, back in 1968 there was a choral performance organised by Methodist Girls’ School. It was a charity event in aid of the school’s building fund. You can find some of the audio clips from this concert here.

A while ago, we featured an old water bill. Today, how about another utility bill – issued during the Japanese Occupation!

Today being International Women’s Day, we’d like to extend our wishes to all the amazing women – both in and around Ipoh, as well as the rest of the planet. Our featured post today is about women in sports: Here is S P Seenivasagam, presenting trophies to Yeow Phaik Poh and Doreen Seow. This […]

Apparently, devotees visit the Paloh Koo Miu Temple in what was once known as the People’s Park, Ipoh, to pray and make offerings on the White Tiger Festival which falls on 5 or 6 March every year. The day is also known as “The day the White Tiger Opens its Mouth” and is celebrated by Taoists […]

When was the last time YOU received a telegram?

This completed application form, to be part of the second Perak Hakka (Khek) Association mass wedding, records that the wedding took place on 28th March 1954 at 12pm. This was the third application to be submitted for this date and it is believed that their were thirteen couples that took part in the ceremony. The […]

This is a photograph of Maxwell Kenion Cowdy and Jones Staff, a famous legal partnership, taken on the 23rd of March 1953. Do you recognise anyone? 🙂

This colourful bag has got us stumped. Have you heard of this brand? Was it similar to Brands Essence of Chicken? Or, was it a completely different product?

Here’s something we may have missed this Chinese New Year, due to the MCO. We thank Ann Kesselring Hamon for these pictures.

…there was the Lok Lum Club. Yes, before Yik Foong complex was built there was a club house in that same premise. Undoubtedly the most prestigious Chinese club in Ipoh, it was officially registered on 12 February 1915. Perhaps some of you may remember what the club house looked like. Here’s a picture to refresh […]

Some of you might remember your water bills looking like this (above picture). This of course being from the 1970s or so. Compare this to the present water bill (sample taken from Google images). Quite a vast difference, isn’t it?

The Perak Government established a Girls’ School at Taiping in 1889 with 8 girls and in 1891 there were 12 girls which was followed by an average enrolment of 36 each month by 1898. The school was named Treacher Girls’ School after Mrs. Treacher because of her special interest she took in the school. (read […]

May the spirit of the year of the Ox fill your heart with peace, love and serenity for all those around you.

We know some of you are rather busy getting ready for the Reunion Dinner tomorrow. How about taking a short break, and having a cup of tea? PS: Any recommendation for a good brand of tea? 😉

This is a receipt/advertisement from Weng Kwong Watch-makers and Gramophone Repairer, issued on 19th February 1957, for the amount $53.50. It pledges 6 months guarantee to all watches sold. This receipt was issued for the sale of a Titoni Swiss watch. Anyone remember who was the owner of this business?

This advertisement from the Loggers’ Wine & Dine introduces Joe Chin (formerly of the Fabulous Falcons) as the organist in their live entertainment from Monday to Saturday from 8pm to 12 midnight. This pub and grill in the late 70s was situated at 40-42, Jalan Kampung Simee at Fair Park, in Ipoh, Perak. It was […]

When he arrived in Malaya, this gentleman (pictured above) became Chief Architect to the Federated Malay States (FMS), but would later return to the United Kingdom to begin his military career. It is often said that he was the first British Architect to achieve the honour of the rank of Brigadier General. The following are […]

A red envelope or a red packet (in Mandarin it’s known as hongbao) is a monetary gift which is given during holidays or special occasions such as weddings, graduation or the birth of a baby. That being said, I’m sure some of the young ones out there will be looking forward to receiving this ‘good fortune’ come Chinese […]

Previously the Senior Assistant of Victoria Institution, Kuala Lumpur, when he came to Ipoh he brought with him one member of his Kuala Lumpur staff and 5 former pupils from his old school. A keen sportsman who had represented Selangor in both football and hockey and quickly introduced both sports to his new school in […]

Ever been to a spa? How about a massage parlour? Well, there once was a massage saloon along Jalan Tokong, Ipoh which offered the following services (see below): If you’ve been there, we’d like to know how good the service was 😉 We’re also wondering if this place is still in business…

While we take extra steps wash and sanitise our hands, have you been paying attention to oral care? Here’s a 1950s design of a famous toothpaste (or dental cream, as they call it) brand. And here’s what the same brand looks like today 😉

Since Chinese New Year is just around the corner, let me pose this question: have you bought your new year clothes yet? 😉 We have here a cheongsam from the 1950s, courtesy of Mdm Ko. Compare this classic to the more modern cheongsam today (picture from Google)

….a nearby Shell Oil Depot was bombed by the Japanese. The depot was ablaze for 3 days. On that same day, an ammunition train near the Railway Station sidings was also bombed. The impact damaged this church (pictured above) and the vicarage. The explosion shattered the glass panes at the high altar; and a wheel […]

This photograph shows the Federated Malay States Hockey Quadrangular held at the Ipoh Club Padang on 26, 27 and 28 January 1941. Abdul Hamid Aroop is standing tenth from the right.

Do you remember a trishaw procession in Ipoh, back in 2000? The procession, in aid of the Xim Phou Moon Welfare Society’s ‘Caring Day’, took place in Ipoh in the first week of January 2000 (we believe Sunday the 2nd). It was formed by the last 10 trishaws that still existed in Ipoh, nine of […]

Did any of you have such a phone? Of course today we have video calls via social media….but back then (early 1990s), this must have been quite a revolution 🙂

Dr Ngoh Lean Tuck made a significant contribution to the reform of Chinese society in Malaya in terms of education and culture. He was a Queen’s Scholar from Penang graduating with the highest honours in medicine from Cambridge University. Besides medicine, the reform of the education of girls was also important to him. He promoted […]

This photograph, taken on 7th January 1919, shows Dr A C Kathigasu and his 19 year- old bride, Sybil Daly on their wedding day at St John’s Church (now St John’s Cathedral) in Bukit Nanas, Kuala Lumpur. The page-boy is Eric Jeremiah, the 6 year-old son of a family friend Iris Jeremiah.

This photograph shows the headquarters building of the Perak Khek Community Association, a Hakka dialect group also known as the Hakka Association. Is this building still used by the association? Or, have they moved to another place?

The Battle of Kampar broke out on the night of 29 December 1941, the day after the Japanese occupied Ipoh. The British battalion, under the inspiring leadership of Lt.Col. Morrison, defended the town very well, inflicting heavy losses on the Japanese. When New Year was ushered in, many soldiers, both Japanese and British, had been […]

HAPPY NEW YEAR! from all of us at IpohWorld 🙂

The press cutting from the Japanese single sheet propaganda paper the Perak Shimbun dated December 20 2604 (1944) speaks of tickets which are on sale for the popular patriotic play, “Oh Chinta Yang Chantek” (“O Beautiful Love”) which was to be staged by Sri Arjuna Bungsawan at Kyoto (ex The Capitol Theatre) in aid of […]

Wishing you a happy, healthy and colorful life this Christmas. Enjoy every moment with your family, friends, and your loved ones. Merry Christmas!

There’s Marmite. There’s Vegemite. Then there’s Bovril. Flavour enhancer, sauce, marinade…etc. Oh, so many uses! Which is YOUR favourite? (Someone once mentioned Marmite on toast 😉 )

Yes, staycation is a word 🙂 It means “a vacation spent at home or nearby”. Well, now that you know what a staycation is….where do you plan to spend the coming holidays? Here’s an idea (ref. to picture above); why not do what the Jennings’ did? In the above picture, J A S Jennings and […]

Rake from a tin mine? That’s what I thought…at first. But it’s not dirt nor tin ore that’s stuck on this rake. And no, this man is not raking coal. In fact, he’s in the midst of roasting coffee beans. Read more here.

These photos (courtesy of Ruth Iversen Rollitt) show shop houses in Teluk Anson. Any Teluk Anson (now Teluk Intan) folks reading this? Any idea what business occupied this premise?

Here’s an inside look of the Perak State Operations Room. We thank K S Wong for this photograph.

Back in 1977, the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong visited Perak. His Majesty is seen here shaking the hand of Dato Seri Yuen Yuet Leng. (This picture was taken from Dato Seri Yuen’s album). Anyone out there ever had the opportunity to shake hands with Royalty? 🙂

According to this Malaya Tribune article, published on 27th February 1948, a public meeting of all the communities was held at Kampar Recreation Club on Monday March 1st – to consider a fitting memorial to the memory of Mahatmaji. Anyone know what was the outcome of the meeting? Was there a memorial eventually?

Have you heard of The Syonan Times? “Syonan” was the name given to Singapore by the Japanese (during the Japanese Occupation). The Syonan Times (printed in Singapore) acted as the local newspaper, and was also part of the psychological warfare the Japanese were using in Malaya. Here’s a sample of one of their editions, from […]

We were told that this building was along Togo Street. Our donor (Ruth Iversen Rollitt) also told us that this photograph dates back to 1933. Do you know what building this is? 🙂

We thank Ruth Iversen Rollitt for sharing this with us. Have you heard of the Perak Commercial Institution? From what we know, it was at Cowan Street. Any idea if the Institution still exists?

We salute all those who have the least-liked jobs: the garbage collectors, the road sweepers, the janitors, and of course (as seen in the above photo) the Nightsoil Bucket Collectors. Of course, we don’t have such bucket collectors today…but imagine what would happen without them?

Have you ever owned such an exercise book – with British Royalty on the front cover? Personally, I’ve never seen one so unique. Was it common stationery back then…say in the early 1950s? Incidentally, today also marks the 73rd wedding anniversary of HM Queen Elizabeth II and HRH Prince Philip 🙂

Our previous blog entry showed an early depiction of Batu Gajah’s main road. Today, we are featuring Kampar Town. Do you know which part of Kampar this is? (if it’s still there today…)

…this was once the Main Road in Batu Gajah! Yes, I can’t believe it myself!

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We have here an appeal letter for Poppy Day. This letter is dated 1957. Poppy Day is a memorial day observed in Commonwealth member nations since the end of WW I, to remember those in the armed forces who died in the line of duty. Poppy Day falls on 11 November, recalling the end of […]

No, he’s not a famous actor. This handsome gentleman is actually Mr Creet – Founder of the Grand Hotel.

On the occasion of the birthday of His Majesty Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, the Sultan of Perak. Dirgahayu Tuanku!

SMI was proud when the first group of medical students to graduate from University of Malaya included five Michaelians. They are pictured above with another Old Michaelian, Mr Vincent Ooi Eu Sen FRCS, Head of Department of Ophthalmology at the University. They are, from left to right: Doctors Chin Kit Kong, Ooi Eng Aun, Chong […]

Here’s a little history recap for you: This grave is among one of seven Christian ones in Kampung Pisang, Pasir Panjang Ulu (in Perak). The cemetery is said to be within a placid jungle clearing against a backdrop of banana trees and thick foliage, close to the Perak River. (read more here).

He made the best use of his time in the colony by learning Cantonese, and later Mandarin and travelled extensively in China. He held a number of Senior posts in Hong Kong, British Guiana and Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), before being appointed as Governor of the Straits Settlements and High Commissioner of the Federated Malay […]

No, I wasn’t talking about Chan Sam Lock. I was referring to Majestic Photo Service (130 Brewster Road, Ipoh). According to the above receipt, the customer bought one set of R. C. A. 23″ Newport television for $1,030. A photo studio seling televisions? Hmm……

The Ipoh Bodega was the first European restaurant to open in Ipoh. Its doors opened on the 6th August 1904. Initially catering mainly to the lunchtime crowd, it began serving dinner shortly after and a month later began to stay open until 11pm, with music to entertain the liquor-drinkers. The weather was the death of […]

Here’s something to keep you occupied this weekend. What do you think this is?

Some of you may already recognise these men, famous brothers in the entertainment world (oops, gave away a big clue there!). Coincidentally, both were born in the month of October. Have any of you had the privilege of meeting them?

Forget James Bond, here in Malaya we had a “super spy”. The photo isn’t all that clear (well, he was spy after all!), but you can more or less get a hint of what this spy looked like. Based on a press cutting, he was known as: “A cunning triple agent who was feted by […]

In keeping up with the Halloween theme, here’s a familiar landmark that may have had its fair share of spooky tales… Somewhat triangular in shape the Odeon is adjacent to St Michael’s Catholic graveyard and like the post-war Rex Theatre, rumours that it is haunted abound. One popular rumour is that if you ever take off your shoes […]

Blythe Spirit is a comic play written by Noel Coward which takes its title from Percy Bysshe Shelley’s poem “To a Skylark” (“Hail to thee, blythe Spirit! / Bird thou never wert”). The play concerns socialite and novelist Charles Condomine, who invites the eccentric medium and clairvoyant, Madame Arcati, to his house to conduct a […]

Looks familiar? Then perhaps you could tell us where in Ipoh this place is. We’d like to thank Ruth Iversen Rollitt for this gem. Ruth, if you’re reading this…SHHHH! Don’t give the readers the answer yet 🙂

Some people associate October with ghouls, spirits, and similar spooky stuff. Perhaps it’s because Halloween falls on 31st October; it could also be that we’ve just past the ‘Hungry Ghost’ month. Whatever the reason, some cinemas take advantage of the season by showing a variety of horror films. That being said, does anyone remember this […]

Stuck indoors because of the weather? Or, perhaps forced to stay at home because of the MCO? Well, here’s an idea of what you and your family could do to pass the time 🙂 When was the last time you played such a board game?

This ‘Ipoh Supermarket’ opened on 1st September 1960. Anyone remember where it was? Is it still there?

This is a pass issued for permission of entry into southern Thailand, valid until 29th January 1978. The holder of the pass has used the pass several times, as can be seen from the chops on both sides of the pass, spanning the months July, August and September 1977. The pass bears the signature of […]

Here we have an article from The Malayan Tribune, dating back to 1945.

Happy Malaysia Day, dear readers!

Your ‘homework’ for today: Which street is this? Do you recognise the car? (What about the man driving it?)

This is an example of what one can do with a used Milo tin – turning it into an oil lamp 🙂 Which brings us to this interesting article in today’s Star newspaper. Any ‘collectors’ reading this? We’d love to hear your thoughts…

Here’s your “homework” for today: Study these pictures carefully. How many of these places do you recognise? Some clues can be found here. 😉

This is part of a portrait picture of a gentleman who had the wellbeing of all people of all races at heart. This picture was taken from an article, which describes our ‘celebrity’ as “a good-hearted, unpretentious, scrupulous and honest man who led the Indians in the fight for an independent Malaya”. I think our […]

This hand-carved Coat of Arms was carved by Ho Mun Wai as a school project when he was in Standard 6 in 1976. Here’s a little quiz for you: do you remember what each section symbolise?

“The Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) was officially founded on 27th February 1949 by 16 men, two of whom were from Perak – Tun Leong Yew Koh and Woo Ka Lim of Ipoh.” – read more at Vicinity Perak – From Chinese Nationalism to Malaysian Chinese – Volume 2 Issue 12, September 2006 The above photo […]

While we’re still on the topic of Merdeka (since 31st August is just around the corner), did you know that: “local Indian activism started in the early 20th century with the formation of associations such as the Taiping Indian Association, which particularly focused on the concerns of plantation workers” ? (quote from – Vicinity Perak […]

Meeting of Kaum Ibu members in Ulu Selama, Perak (1958). The confederation of Kumpulan Kaum Ibu into independent organisations later brought about the creation of Pergerakan Kaum Ibu UMNO (renamed Pergerakan Wanita) in 1949 when the party realised the importance of a permanent women’s auxiliary body. Its leader Puteh Mariah was a dedicated and feisty […]

Our donor (Charlie Choong) took this photograph from the office of the late Dato K K Lim on 31 August 1978. What a view, eh? 🙂

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

Here’s a page from Dato Seri Yuen Yuet Leng’s album, showing a message from the then High Commissioner of Malaya, Sir Gerald Templer. This message was addressed to all police personnel in the country, back in 1952. How’s that for a ‘blast from the past’ ? 😉

Believe it or not, this was the first church building for Our Lady Of Lourdes Church, Ipoh. This photo dates back to 1905.

He had been part of the SMI family since 1939 and had helped to rescue vital equipment before the Japanese took over the school buildings. As a musician himself he gave personal encouragement to the Military and Cadet bands, as well as to stage productions. For more than 40 years, he served the students, the […]

Movie-buffs, do you recognise her? She once starred in “Ruby Gentry”, together with Charlton Heston 🙂

Remember these fans? I still have one at home (which is worn, with age). But the one I have doesn’t have a motif like this one (pictured above). When was the last time you saw or used such a fan?

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This Pamphlet, issued by the National Electricity Board’s Information Section, is all about electrical accidents and how we can avoid them. It was published in July 1967 and the pamphlet sketches were by Ibrahim Ismail. The publication was most likely prompted by the 1966 statistics which showed that 16 people died as a result of […]

Does anyone recall what the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) records looked like back in 1957? Well, here’s a sample.

No, we’re not talking about security guards. Have any of you used a Sony Watchman?

While we’re still on the topic of coffee shops and kopitiams…some of you may have heard of Swatow coffee shop. From the picture below, we know that this coffee shop operated at No.8 Aylesbury Street in Ipoh.

Does anyone remember Tong King Coffee Shop? Apparently they were at No.34 Cockman Street…

Remember this play? Perhaps the next picture might jog some memories. This second picture shows part of the cast. We thank Michael Ho for the above pictures.

Just wondering: those of you who frequented the areas mentioned in the article above, did the traffic lights help? Or perhaps further endeavors were needed for improvement? This 1985 article, which appeared in The Star, was courtesy of Philip LaBrooy.

Just in case some of you were wondering, this was the front page of the famous Times of Malaya – dated 6th August 1959. Back then, this paper cost 15 cents 😉

I’m sure you’ve heard of the Malaysian Red Cross Society, which later became the Malaysian Red Crescent Society. No, we’re not recruiting members….just wondered if anyone of you remember the badges from back then. Perhaps you were members of such clubs back in school? [As Ipoh Remembered has pointed out, the actual Red Cross badges have […]

Apparently “Wayang Pacak” was a thing in Malaya, once upon a time. Has anyone heard of it? Was it a popular feature here in Ipoh? You tell us 🙂

We thank Charlie Choong for this photograph. Yes, the building in the background is none other than the Ipoh Railway Station. Pity this scene garden is no longer around today…

Yes, Chin Street exists! It’s in Gopeng Town, by the way. And this lovely scene is brought to you by August E Kaulfuss.

Remember when the Perak Postal Service started a special express letter service between Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur? It wasn’t that long ago; apparently, there were two dispatches daily (except Sunday and Public Holidays). And the letters would reach the SAME DAY!

Looks familiar? Well, this is called a straw boater. What’s even more interesting is, this hat was rather popular with none other than Chung Thye Phin (see picture below).

Back in 1952, Countess Mountbatten visited St Michael’s Institution. As President of the St John Ambulance Association in London she toured Malaya, visiting centres where St John Ambulance activities were organised. In this photograph, she’s addressing an assembly at the school hall – where she declared a half-holiday (much to the students delight!).

Have you heard of the Perak Pioneer? The first issue, a 4-page bi-weekly edition, came out in 1894. Soon, the paper gained popularity and it became an 8-page daily by 1905. Sadly, on the 18th anniversary of the paper, its editor wrote his last editorial.

Those of you familiar with Registered Mail may recognise this envelope. On that note, when was the last time you received a registered letter?

We’ve heard of royalty having their own special vehicles (and customised number plates). Here we have another “royal mode of transport” – an elephant of the Sultan of Perak 🙂

We have here a Post Office Savings Bank of the Federation (Of Malaya), from 1958. Note the multilingual front page…

Yes, yes…I know it’s not Christmas. But here’s an interesting story which appeared in the Leader magazine. “A week after her marriage in Singapore, Mrs Bloom found herself a captive of the Japanese. Then, thrown together in misery, Occidental, Chinese and Sikh found that prison bars could not confine the human spirit. In Britain on […]

On the occasion of the birthday of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah. Dirgahayu Tuanku!

Here’s a rare find: note that the name and address of Mr & Mrs Baird are written in both English and Mandarin! Perhaps someone out there knew the Bairds?

According to this bill, Mr. Chin paid the Board $70.00 for the usage of electricity. How much is your bill this month? 😉

When the 1939-45 war in Europe ended, in which Police Lieutenant Dick Villiers had visited the continent more times than a peacetime tourist, he was dropped into Malaya as a member of Force 136. When the Japanese capitulated in 1945, Dick left the jungle in Lower Perak and by accident met the Loh family at […]

Since the Movement Control Order (MCO), we know many of you miss your regular kopitiam-visits. Well, here’s a vintage Bentwood kopitiam chair…for a little nostalgia. Interestingly, Bentwood objects are made by wetting wood either by soaking or by steaming. This wood is then bent and left to harden into curved shapes and patterns.

This photograph was taken during the official opening of the new ACS Library and wing, on 11 June 1955. The gentleman unveiling the tablet is said to be the Perak Deputy Menteri Besar. Does anyone know who he was? Also in the photograph are: Methodist Bishop Raymond Archer (left) and school Principal Ralph Kesselring (right). […]

Today’s “celebrity” is not a politician or statesman. Our famous personality once performed as a solo artiste in 1977 at the Green Fern Coffee House, Ipoh. The Green Fern Coffee House is, of course, no longer around. I’m sure some of you recognise him (pictured above). Yes, this is none other than Joe Chin, formerly […]

Taken in Papan in the grounds of the Raja Bilah complex outside the Rumah Besar (also known as a Rumah Godang), this photograph shows Raja Yaacob in ceremonial Malay dress with several other Malay men seated or standing around a table. There is a label on the table in Jawi that we believe translates into […]

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

This article was taken from the Straits Times dated Monday 24th June 1963. It states that the Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, who arrived in Ipoh from Alor Setar was given somebody else’s coat as his own was missing! Later, the stranger’s coat was handed over to the Malayan Airways. The airline somehow managed to […]

Does anyone remember this event? This article was published in Cold Storage Group of Companies’ Social and Sports Scrapbook, back in 1961. Read more about it here.

This photograph by Lim Sze Woon, was taken on 21 November 1950. It shows two generations of teachers of St. Michaels Institution. Gordy advisies that seated 3rd from the left is Teh Swee Kang and standing 3rd left is his son, Albert Teh. Seated on the extreme right of the picture is Mr P J […]

The Sultan Idris Training College (also known as SITC) was built in 1922. It was the first education training institution in Malaya. The above photo shows the inside of the SITC dormitory. Any SITC alumni out there? We’d love to hear from you….

This photograph shows a postcard by William Nabitoepoeloe, a Batak Christian missionary among the Orang Asli (the indigenous people), who survived the Japanese Occupation as a Senoi interpreter for the Japanese. From this card it appears that he was working for the Culture Department based at the Ipoh Town Hall, from where the card was […]

Have you heard of the Birch Club? The Birch Club was sited on Connolly Road, adjacent to the first railway station and the Government Rest House. Anyone seen the inside of this building? Perhaps you have a picture or two?

Those of you who’ve guessed it already know this to be part of the Elim Gospel Church. But what was this building used for?

No, this is not a danger sign for a Covid-19 hotspot. 😉 It may well have simply been a sign to prevent entrance to a tin mine or a military installation. Note that this sign is in four languages – English, Chinese, Jawi and Tamil. We believe it may have been before WWII….

Ladies, when was the last time YOU wore an elegant Kebaya? Perhaps for a party? A wedding? A fancy dress competition? Also….how many types of Kebaya are there?

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

Here we have the first wedding, which was held at the newly built Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, Ipoh. The groom was Arokia Dass @ Noel, while the bride was Amalorpavamary @ Mary Rozario. We also have a copy of the church marriage register, which documented this wedding….as well as another photograph of the […]

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

The characters across the top simply read “Chinese Sinseh” while the central panel provides the doctors name as “Zu Yong Chu” in red and his specialities below in black. These include “Physician, Pediatrician/Gynaecologist and Pulse”! Down the left hand side the patients are assured of of “Accurate Prescriptions”, while on the right “Careful Diagnosis” is […]

Did you hear about the Chinese Doctor who opened a clinic at No.39 Anderson Road? According to the above flyer, he’s from Guangzhou and he specializes in prescriptive acupuncture….

He was the vice-president of the Penang Anti-Opium Association in 1906, and played a key role in the first Anti-Opium Conference in Ipoh. Then, he started a small practise at 12 Brewster Road, and gave his support to the Perak Chinese Amateur Dramatic Association and the Ipoh library project. Yes, our “celebrity” for today needs […]

We stumbled upon this photo of a pretty woman in Cheongsam. Can anyone tell us who she is?

While we’re on the topic of personal hygiene, don’t forget your oral health too 🙂

Remember Mohamed Ghazali bin Haji Jawi? He took over as Mentri Besar of Perak back in August 1957 (after Dato Panglima Bukit Gantang resigned). This newspaper cutting was taken from The Straits Times dated Tuesday, 1st of March 1960. According to the article, Mohamed Ghazali was appointed Malaya’s Ambassador to the UAE.

No, we’re not in a morbid mood this Friday. In fact, tomorrow (21st March) will mark 71 years since the burial of WW II heroine Sybil Kathigasu (nee Daly). We have here a photograph taken at St Michael’s Church, way back in 1949. The hearse can be seen arriving at the tree-lined Church Road. Also […]

Here’s a 1963 view of the Kampar market. Kampar folks, has it changed much over the years?

Here’s something to keep you “busy” this weekend 🙂 Can you guess what this is?

This press cutting reported that on March 1st 1983, a new $14 million central market (Super Kinta), was expected to be fully opened for business. Also, this was said to be the largest in South-East Asia!

This photograph was taken on 3 March 1934. It records the members of the Old Michaelian’s Association (OMA), first formed in 1933, on the occasion of the opening of their Association’s premises – located directly behind the group.

Lieutenant Benson’s platoon finds itself isolated in enemy-held territory after a retreat. Soon they are joined by Sergeant Montana, whose overriding concern is caring for his catatonic colonel. Benson and Montana can’t stand each other, but together they must get the survivors to Hill 465, where they hope the division is waiting. It’s a long, […]

Mark your calendars, folks. Come witness the launching of a unique book by H. Berbar on 21st March 2020, at Tin Alley (3 Lorong Bijeh Timah, 30000 Ipoh).

Ever seen a photograph of Malayan Royalty with the Japanese Administration? We have a rare one here. Here we have the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Abdul Aziz Mu’tassim Billah Shah, with the Officers of the Japanese Occupation at the Iskandariah Palace in Kuala Kangsar.

No, not those decorative model ships place inside glass bottles. We’re talking about Old Spice 😀 Do you remember this brand?

How many of you remember THIS brand (pictured above)?

This is a Sunday School Class, which was part of the Elim Gospel Hall. We don’t know the exact date this photograph was taken; however, do you recognise anyone in the photo?

We have here the Perak Justices of the Peace and their Wives at a get together party back in 1960. Some of you may recognise the background….yes, it is the Ipoh Club!

…yes, some you out there can’t really function in the mornings without your cup of coffee 😀 Here’s a blast from the past – a vintage Nescafe coffee tin.

Believe it or not, this was the first all-women Constable trainees who arrived in Ipoh back in 1957!

We came across this article in the Star newspaper. If this plan goes through, perhaps we’ll be able to see the once iconic Station Hotel back in all its glory. Here’s a recap of the inside of the Station Hotel, from the early 1920s, when a retirement dinner was given to the 14th British Resident […]

This page was taken from the souvenir programme for the opening of the Ruby Theatre. As shown, the advertisement promotes a movie from Paramount Productions. Were you one of those who watched romantic movies on Valentine’s Day, preferably with your significant other? Perhaps you still do…?

Yes, there was a park such as this (pictured above) in Gopeng. Sadly, it is no longer there… Do you remember this park?

There was a time when parks (such as the one pictured above) were considered ideal ‘dating’ spots 😉

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

The gentleman in the centre (with glasses) is none other than His Majesty Sultan Idris. The lovely lady is His Majesty’s Consort – YTM Che Puan Negara Aminah. We believe this photograph was taken at a factory, probably sometime in the 70s. Could anyone tell us more please?

It was back in 1902 when these three gentleman attended the Coronation of King Edward VII, in London. Who are they, you might ask? Well, they are (left to right): Sir Hugh Clifford, Sultan Idris Murshidul’adzam Shah (of Perak) and Raja Chulan (Raja Di-Hilir).

It must have been a really grand birthday, judging by the 4-tiered cake. The gentleman holding up his wine glass is none other than the birthday boy himself – Towkay Lau Pak Kuan.

I’m sure many of you “eligible” individuals received a lot of Ang Pau / Hongbao for the New Year. 🙂 It is said that: “The amount of money contained in the envelope usually ends with an even digit, in accordance with Chinese beliefs; odd-numbered money gifts are traditionally associated with funerals. The exception being the […]

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Zunar’s session in January was just as exhilarating and we have a full crowd to start the new year. Taking about star power ! Not to be outdone, our theme for February will be equally exciting i.e. Local Animation. Sharpened Word is proud to bring in the creator and director of the multi-award winning […]

Not quite 😉 This photograph was taken at Ave Maria Convent. The lady in the centre is Mdm Poon Kim Chin (aka Poon Ah Thye), together with the girls from her homescience class. Anyone from Mdm Poon’s class here? We’d love to hear about your “adventures” from the homescience class…

We thank Lim Bor Seng for the above photos. Any members of St John’s Ambulance reading this? We’d love to know more about this royal visit…

No, we’re not talking about a servant or nanny. We’re talking about a brand of condensed milk known as British Maid. Have you heard of it? Probably back in the 1950s? Or maybe 1960s? I’m more familiar with the common ‘Dutch Lady’….

Since Chinese New Year is just around the corner, have you been busy decorating your houses? What do you usually put up? Red Lanterns? Decorations depicting the Chinese Zodiac? (I believe this year is the Year of the Rat). What about a large red paper fan?

We thank Ann Kesselring Hamon for sharing this photo with us. We were told that this was taken in 1957, at ACS Ipoh.

I know….we’ve just come back from a long holiday 😉 But some of you out there have been saving your annual leave for Chinese New Year, right? Have you packed yet? (Or, perhaps you’re one of those last minute packers…like me) Pictured above are two original Chinese trunks, measuring 66cm×45cm×37cm. Made from wood they were […]

That’s what I thought at first. But actually, this is a greeting card for Christmas and New Year – from The Season Store Ltd. We thank Wendy Dowell (nee Harley), from the UK, for sharing this with us.

We thank Mary Olver for sharing this photograph with us. Standing from left to right are: Mark Olver (Hon Secretary), Harold Edge (BOAC) and W. D. Green (Club Captain). Incidentally, Green was the winner of the BOAC Speedbird Trophy for Gliding. Does anyone remember where the club house was?

Anyone know what’s become of the famed French Bakery?

John..who? John Robson, best remembered as the founder and proprietor of The Malay Mail newspaper 🙂

Hello there, Andersonians! Do you remember this letterhead? Note the address of the school – Ashby Road. That should give you a clue as to which year this was…. We thank Barat Kumar for sharing this with us.

Taken from the Straits Times, dated 25th Dec 1959, it states that many have complained about the long waiting hours at the Taiping District Hospital. One of the patients, who went to the hospital at 9a.m., was not admitted until 5.30p.m. I guess we’re still having the same issues today, aren’t we? 😉

Did you know…that the foundation stone for the present building of St John’s Church was laid on 15 December 1910? Here’s a picture of the church when it was just completed (in 1912).

Heard of this brand? Could this have been the alternative to the famous eye drops brand “Eye-Mo”?

You’ve seen souvenirs from Coca Cola, but what about Pepsi Cola? Do you remember these collectable cups?

Yes, I’m sure you recognise this brand. No, “Clouet” is not a strange spelling for ‘chicken’….Clouet is actually the name of the founder of this brand. 🙂

We thank Muhammad for sharing this photo with us. His grandfather – Mohd Ali bin Pitchay – is the gentleman on the extreme right. Can you identify the others in this photo? 😀 We were told that this photo was taken inside the Lam Looking building…

Paraffin flakes? Ever used them in your washing?

Some of you may remember those galvanised washtubs used for laundry (and maybe bathing the little ones too!). Does anyone still use them now? I doubt it (but I may be wrong). Maybe some of you out there still prefer hand-washed clothes… 😉

We thank Sai Chew Yin for sharing this with us. In his words “Lee Heng is synonymous with the Yin family living in Ipoh for three generations, had many fond and happy memories growing up in our home/shop“. With reference to our previous blog, Sai added “The receipt was made out by one of our […]

Heard of this shop? Bought supplies from them? I’m sure someone out there could tell us more about Lee Heng.

Imagine carrying something like this while shopping at your local mall 😉 Quite handy though, considering many places have either stopped giving out plastic bags, or even charge you extra should you need a bag. This raffia bag comes from Madam Ko Wye Fong.

In previous blog posts about the former Yau Tet Shin Round Market, many of you talked about the stall(s) you frequently visited. Well, for those who knew the Round Market like the back of their hand….here’s a ‘quiz’ for you: Do you recall what was sold at Stall No. 12?

This plastic bag has “Beauty” printed on one side, and “Crescendo” printed on the other. Both these names were once famous in Ipoh town – as they were names of shopping outlets. Beauty was at 140 & 142 Hugh Low Street; Crescendo was at 14-18 Chamberlain Road.

We thank Barat Kumar for sending us this picture. In his own words, Barat explains: “As we bear witness to the passing of a great man I would like to share this picture of Our beloved Mr Selvamany. Picture was taken on 14 July 1972 at a farewell assembly. This was when he went on […]

On the occasion of the birthday of HM Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, the Sultan of Perak. Dirgahayu Tuanku!