Identify Photographs | IpohWorld's World

Wery well known and a beauty from young, when I came across the picture I could not resist putting it up. Who is she and what can you tell us about her.

Here’s a scene from the old Ipoh Airport. As you can see in the background, there’s an airplane with the words ‘Malayan Airways’ on it. Hence we think this picture was probably taken in the early 1950s – by 1963, the airline was renamed Malaysian Airways Ltd (MAL). I remember in the late 1980s or […]

Familiar? Yes, this is our very own natural jacuzzi! I remember visiting this place once – before Lost World of Tambun was built – and my brother and I would relax in the pool while watching the world go by 🙂 There was a very distinct smell of sulphur in the air, but it didn’t seem to […]

This arch was set up over the Hugh Low Bridge, in Ipoh, somewhere in 1947. This was before the grand parade – which was held in support of the Kuomintang Party (led by General Chiang Kai Shek). Notice the three flags at the top of the arch: the Perak Flag, the Kuomintang Flag and the Union Jack. […]

Familiar? These were what the Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) officers looked like in the 1960s – khaki uniform and rattan-woven shields! Looks like they were giving a demonstration for the public – the one kneeling in the centre, facing the camera, was probably the Leader of the platoon (from the stripes on the shoulder, he […]

Running this blog and database is a very interesting thing and sometimes the coincidences that take place are nothing short of amazing. The very same day that I said that I had never heard of a kindie in No 5 Gopeng Road, I visited a relation in Pasir Puteh. And there was an album full […]

This villa was build around 1910, by none other than Eu Tong Sen; Eu used this as an annex to his Chateau (Forest Lodge). We were also told that this Anglo-Malay Bungalow was the home of Japanese senior officers (between 1942-1945), and was where Ipoh residents queued up for rice coupons. Garden Villa was also […]

Not a very difficult question for you on this bright Monday morning, but of all the grand old buildings in Ipoh that have been torn down, I think this is the one I miss the most. Fortunately we have this photograph as a memento of what, in my humble opinion, should never have been demolished. […]

Those who frequently travel along Tiger Lane (Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah) would have noticed this building (see picture below). This is the Freemason’s Lodge, which was built by B M Iversen in the 1930s. This was the second Lodge; the first one was at Maxwell Road (which was also used by Anderson School in the late […]

Fellow Main Convent Alumni……….recognise this? It is said to be the kitchen. I don’t recognize it……this was WAY before my time 😉 Maybe some of you out there know which part of the Main Convent building this is……do let us know. And do tell us if this building is still there today (perhaps it has […]

Familiar?……..it’s at the lower end of Hume Street, not too far away from the Panglima Mosque. Some of you must be nodding your heads in agreement – “yes, I know this place!”. Well, for those who do know…………do tell us MORE: perhaps there’s a story or two behind this structure.

Clearly the ‘old’ and ‘new’ don’t match here…..one looks like it may fall apart anytime soon, while the other has been left uncompleted! These two ‘neighbours’ live at Brewster Road, Ipoh. We do wonder what the modern building is. Also, we noticed that the building has been ‘windowless’ for some time now! Any ideas? What […]

Does anyone out there know WHO this house once belonged to? It seems to have been abandoned for many years now – notice the plants growing in and around the building! Judging from the design and the land around it, this house must have been the home of a rich Towkay. It’s a pity, such […]

Here we have pictures of a family car, taken in the late 1950s in Kampar. These pictures are from Charlie’s personal collection – yes, this beauty (car shown above) was Charlie’s FAMILY CAR! This one shows the same car…with the hood down. Oh, what a treat it would be…….to ride in such a car in […]

Here’s one for the album! This picture was given to us by our friend Charlie…..yes, that’s Charlie on his tractor 😉 As children, we played with toy soldiers, match-box cars, teddy bears, dolls, board games, etc. But I do wonder: how many of us had such toys (picture above) when we were little? Certainly Leong Cheok Loong had a […]

Eu Tong Sen and Chung Thye Phin (two of Ipoh’s many Towkays) once built a weekend retreat, Forest Lodge, at Gopeng Road. It had a large stable – befitting the common interests of these “blood brothers”, which included motorcars, racehorses, and country houses. Later, when Eu Tong Sen was appointed to the Federal Council, Chung Thye […]

While in Falim some time ago, our friend Charlie stumbled upon this curious building (picture above). Not to be confused with the ‘lions of Hugh Low Street’ – but they DO somehow look similar. These ‘lions’ have been ‘living’ in Falim since 1906. We wonder what this building was BEFORE it became Syarikat Electrik Kong Ah. […]

We received the following email and a number of family photographs recently from a lady named Judy and, as we usually do, would very much like to help with this enquiry which reads: “I am researching my family history and trying find out as much as possible – of whatever type, good and bad – […]

This is Ms Chung Lai Leng – a pretty Ipoh girl, who gave up selling welfare lottery tickets to become an apprentice with a dressmaking firm. She was photographed by Francis Lee; her picture, along with several other Ipoh beauties, appeared in the 1960s magazine “Ipoh: The Town that Tin Built” (published by the Ipoh […]

These ‘friends’ live at Leech Street – opposite the low cost flats, next door to the old Kinta Aerated Water building. Who owns them now, we wonder….and what’s become of them? We see the one on the extreme right has been painted pink; which now sells groceries (at wholesale price). What about the others? Anyone […]

You don’t see beauties like these anymore! Houses like these are hard to come by; the few that are left either go through EXTREME renovations, or they just end up being torn down and a modern structure replaces them. A little patching up here, some painting over there – and there you have […]

Noting the response to our previous posting, we’ve decided to put up two more pictures of the said family: Peranakan or Chinese? We don’t know…maybe someone out there knows…. Here we have a better view of the house. Note also the number plate on the vehicle – PK 3226. That should give you a rough […]

To what we know, this family used to live at Simpang Pulai, Perak. Surprised? So am I…never knew we had Peranakan families here in Perak! Notice how the women are dressed, compared to the Western suit worn by the man (probably the husband of these two women). Maybe someone out there knew them? Or, perhaps […]

Here we have a picture from the 1970s, showing the Tadika Batu Gajah (Batu Gajah Kindergarten). To what we know, this kindergarten was housed in a wooden shed, within the compound of St Joseph’s Church. The shed can be seen in the picture (above) on the left; the long, wooden structure on the far left, which is […]

I’m sure many of you have seen this place (picture below). It’s said to be near Kok Kee Restaurant. Familiar? Here’s another shot of the mansion, a different angle… Some of you must be smiling and nodding your heads. What we’d like to know is what’s become of this place? We hope it won’t be […]

Those who frequent the Pasar Besar (Main Market) of Ipoh might be familiar with these (picture below) Yes, these shop houses have stood the test of time; and they’re STILL going strong! The 3rd shop from the left is particularly interesting – the one painted yellow, with the words ‘Market Terrace’ at the top. As […]

The above pictures were taken inside Falim House, which was once the abode of Foo Nyit Tse. Much of the old furniture and trimmings have been preserved – which attracted the production crew of the local drama Sybil. The pictures below were taken at the set. For Sybil, Falim House was used as the home […]

Here’s another puzzle for you: where can this (picture above) be found? It’s somewhere around Ipoh town. Is it on a building….or an arch….or above a doorway? I’m sure some of you out there have already guessed it – maybe it’s a little too easy…. 🙂 Happy guessing!

How many of you remember them? The cars, I mean…..yes, the MGA and the Austin 7! Notice the Austin’s number plate – P 236. I wonder how many Austins there were in Perak back in 1959. Same with the MGAs. Anyone had the pleasure of driving an MGA or Austin? The boy in the dark pants seems […]

This place was said to have a large hall on the top floor. During the war, the hall was a Japanese mah jong den. Later (after the war), it was turned into classrooms for the Sam Choy Primary School – this was during the day time; at night, it was the venue for the Chinese […]

Some time ago, the Perak Heritage Society visited Teluk Intan (formerly known as Telok Anson). Among the highlights of the trip was visiting the famous ‘Leaning Tower’. Yes, Perak has her own ‘leaning tower’ – just like Pisa. We have here some pictures of the inside of the tower…(see below) On the left is a […]

Most of us are familiar with the Birch Clock Tower (along Post Office Road). In one of our previous posts, we were wondering what building seemed hidden in the background, far left of the picture (see below). Well, the mystery has been solved – the building is none other than the old Court House! Yes, […]

Remember them? (see picture below) (These lions can be found on either side of the front porch, of the Falim House) Yes, these are the two faithful lions who ‘guard’ Falim House; we were also told that these lions were made of cast iron, not stone! They are painted red, obviously for “good luck”. I […]

Here is one way of restoring and using a heritage building….. Garden Villa is located at No.5, Jalan Raja Dr Nazrin Shah (Gopeng Road), Ipoh. It was originally an annex to Eu Tong Sen’s mansion (Eu Chateau-Forest Lodge). Now, this place is managed by Kinta Heritage group. This Anglo-Malay architecture can be a venue for […]

Looks familiar? To those who (like me) often visit the Hilltop Cafe (the orange building at the far end, right side of the shady tree), you would have noticed these rows of shop houses – particularly the ones on the right of the picture. (Hilltop Cafe is along Hugh Low Street). These shop houses, on […]

Foo Nyit Tse started off as miner, under Foo Choo Choon; he later opened his first mine in 1898. In the 1920s, Foo Nyit Tse (who by then was a well known mining Towkay) built Falim – ‘a self contained housing estate, with a large num of low cost terrace housing and 40 shop houses’. […]

Remember this shop? Here’s a clue: it’s at Market Street….. If I’m not mistaken, I think the shop is still there – going strong after all these years! They specialized in Kain Pulikat, (the locals might know it as sarong) which was said to be made in India. They also sold Kain Batek (Batik). Here’s another […]

Who is he? What was his name? Where did he come from? Where did he live? Well, we don’t even know what’s become of him. This poor beggar used to come by Tom Turnbull’s quarters, when Tom was in Batu Gajah. Sometimes, this old man tried to sell Tom a thing or two. Here is […]

It’s that season again; where all Malaysians young and old, some foreigners too, join in the fun. To the die-hard fans out there, yes…we’re talking about DURIANS! Here we have a picture of durians being sold along Osborne Street, Ipoh (in the early 1970s). Were there many stalls selling durians in those days? We’d like […]

While we’re still on the topic of schools, here’s a picture from 1963 – showing the cast of *Les Sylphides (a ‘white ballet’ or ballet blanc). Our donor, Sybil de Roquigny, says this ballet was performed in Ipoh. We think the cast could be from Main Convent – but we could be wrong. Does anyone […]

In one of our previous blogs, Katherine Wong shared with us about fund-raising at her alma mater – Main Convent, Ipoh. Today we thought we’d put up a little something about an ACS fun fair. On the 3rd of August 1957, Anglo Chinese School (ACS), Ipoh, had its first Food and Fun Fair. The event […]

Here’s a picture of a street hawker, taken from an old postcard – as some of our fans out there recall, there were such hawkers….who came around with their ‘treasures’ in coolie baskets. This hawker is said to be selling “chee cheong farn” (as how the postcard spells it). Besides food and snacks, I do […]

Hume Street is also known as “Koon Choy Kai” in Cantonese, meaning “Coffin Street”. Do you know why? Phun Yue Wui Kun 潘禺会馆 , the tall building at the far right, is one of the busiest funeral parlors along Hume Street. It caters to those who died away from home and also one who died […]

Here we have the Chew Family, who used to live at No.5, Dulcieville Lane, Ipoh. This picture was probably taken between 1958-1960. Back then, Dulcieville Lane used to be a housing area. In the 90s, the area was cleared and is now occupied by Parkson Ipoh Parade. From what we were told, this family ran the famous […]

In the 1950s, a newly married herbalist rented a room in a shophouse – No.1, Treacher Street, Ipoh – where he sold his ‘cooling tea’ or leong char as the locals knew it. This man was none other than Ho Kai Cheong; and till today his tea is still popular – “Ho Yan Hor”, as […]

This postcard is somewhat a continuation from our previous post about the Kinta River. The picture here shows the entrance of the British Residency; the date was rougly in the 1920s. I doubt the building is still there (if it is, it’s probably in ruins)…but does anyone know where it was? It is said to […]

We have here a postcard, from roughly the 1930s. At the top, right, it says “Belfield Street”. The mystery here is this: on the far left of the picture, is a building that says ‘E.W. FMS Hotel’. Was this the location of the 1st FMS Bar and Restaurant? Notice too that almost across the street from […]

This is a special request for those who asked for pictures of the Kinta River. The picture above is taken from a 1905 postcard – showing the British residency along the river. The British Resident at that time was E W Birch (the eldest son of J W W Birch), who served from 1904 – 1910. Here we […]

Here is a picture taken from Christine Wu Ramsey’s “Days Gone By: Growing Up in Penang“. The picture is from her family album; and the book contains many such high quality photographs from both Ipoh and Penang. These alone make the book a great buy. Ramsey is the great granddaughter of Towkay Leong Fee – who owned the famous […]

Last weekend (11th to the 13th of June), was a weekend of remembrance. It is dedicated to those who fought in the 2 World Wars, the Japanese Occupation, and the Malayan Emergency – both the survivors and those who gave up their lives for the sake of ours. This annual event started with the ceremony at the […]

Sometimes life can be cruel. It was late 1969. Dad has a younger brother staying with us at #188. He was a carpenter at a furniture shop in Ipoh. A young man of just 23, he was healthy and full of life vitality. Everyone liked him. He was steady with a pretty girl […]

Back in the 1950s, cinemas were a popular (probably the only) source of entertainment – television sets were not common and not everyone had a radio either! Hence, the cinema-experience was a real treat – especially for the little ones! We received an interesting e-mail from Ignatius Chiew, regarding the ‘soft’ opening of Ipoh’s Cathay […]

“Oh No!” I can hear you say, “Not the clock tower AGAIN!”, but please be patient because this postcard sent to us as a scan was bought here in Ipoh in 1955 and there is something quite different about it. “Different! What is different?” Well, out of the many similar pictures we have seen from […]

This is a front view of No.188, Hugh Low Street – which used to be Ipohgal’s home. The picture was taken by Aaron Ong, who was inspired by Ipohgal’s description of her colourful childhood. The design of this house deserves a special mention – particularly the 2 lions on the roof (see picture below) Like […]

This is an 80s picture of the Majlis Perbandaran Ipoh (MBI) swimming pool. The pool is near the Perak Stadium; also part of the sports complex which has a velodrome, hockey stadium and an indoor stadium (Stadium Indera Mulia). The pool is opened to the general public, and it has also been a venue for various swimming competitions. […]

This is one of the many mansions which belonged to one of Ipoh’s rich towkays. I’m sure some of you recognise it! The picture below shows what has become of the place in recent times…. ….a club! Notice the changes, especially the windows and balcony. Anyone know WHEN the mansion was turned into a club?

I’m sure many of you out there recognize this place! Today, it’s mainly a stop for the inter-city buses – since Medan Gopeng now handles the inter-state services. But the place is still BUSY! Such buses (as in the picture) are still around today, along with the new air-conditioned buses too! The roundabout has had […]

…she may have been no more than 20 years old when she left her family (back in the Fujian or Kwungtung Province) to work overseas as a “combination of cleaner, cook, seamstress, nurse and general factotum”. In Ipoh, these Black and White sisters “had their own temple where men were not allowed”. This picture we […]

Hi, The Ipohworld’s World blog is wonderful. I tried to find in your posts information about one building which is located near the roundabout at Gopeng Road and Jalan Tambun, diagonally opposite Yuk Choy Primary School, but I haven’t been able to. A large furniture shop is now built in front of […]

Just behind this wall which is across the road from Chung Thye Phin’s mansion (now the Kinta Medical Centre) is a wonderful old mansion which we hope is under massive restoration rather than renovation. It presently looks like this. What a great house this must have been in its day. But by now you might be […]

A TRIBUTE TO MOM 献给天下间的母亲 Dearest Mom, how can I ever forget the simple joy of nestling in your loving arms and suckling contently at your milky breasts that gave me the nourishments of life. Dearest Mom, how can I ever describe your kind smile that I saw through my tears as I took a fall […]

My name is Mohammed Salleh, age 39, married with three children. I am one of the many hawkers in town selling ‘chendol’ for the past 22 years. You can find me daily at the Magistrate Court compound in the morning; around Railway Station at one o’clock; and at Hale Street (opposite Town Padang) from 3 […]

Somewhere in the late 1960s, this was part of a low-cost housing scheme in Sungai Rokam (off Gopeng Road), in Ipoh. These houses were constructed mainly of timber, following the traditional Malay-styled home. There were about 410 units of such houses which covered over 100 acres of land. The houses were raised on timber columns, […]

Recognise this bar? Don’t know if it was as popular as the FMS; but it must have had many patrons – judging by their well-stocked bar (see picture below) The bar was at Station Hotel. Wonder, did it have a catchy name? Some of you out there might know more………..

The former Out Patient department of the Ipoh General Hospital. We think this picture was probably taken in the late 80s (if we’re wrong, let us know!). At present, this building has been given a more modern ‘make-over’. Also notice in the background – far right, the Municipal building (Majlis Bandaraya Ipoh).

With reference to one of our previous posts, and a special request by Zul, we’ve put up the plaque – which acts as a ‘memorial’ for the brave elephant…. This signboard was erected by the (then) British Government after the accident – around 1894.

No, we’re not talking about the Daniel Day-Lewis movie. We think this ‘Red-Man’ was placed at the Ipoh Railway Station – and may possibly be the LAST of its kind! Anyone ‘met’ the ‘Red-Man’ before?

This art-deco styled cinema was designed by B M Iversen and built in the late 1940s. It was said to be a popular Chinese movie cinema, which later went on to show English, Malay, Hindi and Tamil movies in the 80s. The theatre finally closed in 1998. The elegent building now stands alone at Chamberlain […]

This road block was at the junction of Brewster Road and Cockman Street. Judging from the uniforms, we think this happened in 1975 – if we’re wrong, let us know! In the picture, there is the famous United Optical Company and the Ipoh branch of Straits Echo. We’re looking forward to your comments…..

This place was featured in the film ‘Anna and the King’. The 183-metre veranda is good place “to spend a lazy afternoon” with friends, over tea (or beer, depends on your preference!). Also a popular wedding venue once; I’m sure you know where this place is…….

The location was good; at the heart of town, with neighbouring banks, theatres, commercial buildings and within easy communication. Back in the 70s, the room rates were quite affordable – $55 for a Twin-sharing De Luxe room! The air-conditioned rooms even had TV sets installed! Besides the luxuries it offered, there was also a restaurant and […]

This cinema was built in the 1930s, adjacent to a Christian graveyard – rumour has it that if you took off your shoes inside, you might not find them again when the lights come on! The picture shown here was taken in 1971, after the cinema was renovated. I’m sure most of you know this […]

Here’s a section of Ipoh Old Town, said to be taken from the top of the state mosque’s minaret. In the background (left) is the Ipoh Padang and a row of giant common ru. Further back, are the limestone hills – something Ipoh has always been noted for! This was what the area used to […]

This all-marble fountain was built in memory of E W Birch, Perak’s British Resident from 1905-1910. It was at the south end of Belfield street – sadly, now another fountain has replaced this beauty! We were once told by a senior resident of Ipoh, that during the Japanese Occupation the four corners of the fountain were […]

This famous Ipoh landmark opened in 1962. Designed by Booty Edwards & Partners, the place offered each trader equal space for his/her shoplot. The Yau Tet Shin bazaar was known to the locals as Pasar Bulat (Round / Circular Market); it offered everything from suitcases and travelling bags, to Pomelo and Groundnut stalls, and […]

This restaurant was said to be famous for Chinese Delicacies and Tanjong Tualang Fresh Water Prawns. Probably one the few air-conditioned restaurants at that time (1970s), it was located at the Yau Tet Shin Market & Shopping Centre; along Cowan Street in Ipoh. Sadly, the Yau Tet Shin Market is not there anymore (now turned […]

The above photo was given to us by Lennie Brookes. According to Lennie, this is a photo of (her best friend) Norazian Tahir‘s children at a school play. Norazian had married a Police Inspector from Ipoh. If anyone knows Norazian or her children please let us know. Anyone out there remember being in a school […]

It was a bright sunny morning when these men in white went round the town carrying this float. We were told it was in conjunction with the 9-God Festival. In the background is a famous Ipoh food-haunt – Wan Nan Hotel and Restaurant. The restaurant is still there – still crowded on weekends and public […]

A E Walker, the Manager of Elphil Estate (Sungai Siput, Perak), was shot in his office by Communist insurgents on 16th June 1948. Walker’s murder and the murder of two other planters led to the start of the Malayan Emergency – which lasted 12 years; 1948-1960. Here we have a rare photograph of the interior […]

Flooding in Kuala Kangsar had been a problem since 1926, when the royal palace (Istana Sri Sayong) was almost swept away! The picture we have here is from 1967; as you can see, almost half of the Cathay cinema is underwater. By the looks of things, the men on the boat were probably hoping to catch ‘The Sound […]

Othman Sabrin kindly sent in this photo for publication. Thank you Sir! He said: “This is a picture of Persatuan Kedet Bersatu Malaysia from Anderson School, Ipoh in 1975. I studied at the school from 1973 until 1975. Our School Principal was Mr Lam Kok Hon (sitting in the centre with the moustache).” Now Old Andersonians, […]

Here we have two gentlemen posing outside the Perak Chinese Rubber Association. We think the picture was probably taken after 1959, since that was the year the building was built. Since we know nothing about the place, we’d like to ask any of you out there: Do you know where in Ipoh this building is? […]

This little girl is standing by the famous Sultan Yussuf Fountain. This fountain is at a roundabout; which connects Brewster Road, Tambun Road, Gopeng Road and Hugh Low Street. The fountain was donated by the Turf Club, as part of their attempts to beautify Ipoh. The Turf Club also came up with the Japanese Garden […]

The Ipoh Airport started out as a private airfield in the 1930s. It was only in 1947 that the first commercial flight was introduced. Later, in the 1980s, the airport runway was extended. Here we have a photograph of a family at the Ipoh Airport, taken in 1978. In the background (top, left) is the airport’s control […]

…..one should take time to cool off – like these children from Kampung Gajah! Here they are, without a care in the world, having fun the waters of the Kinta River. To what we know, this picture was taken around the year 1965. Anyone want to share with us your fond memories from those days?

Jubilee Park was once Ipoh’s foremost entertainment centre. Built by the Danish architect BM Iversen, some of the attractions within this 4-acre park were the Grand Theatre, the Chinese Concert Hall and the Jubilee Cabaret. Interestingly, it was originally called the ‘Ipoh Amusement Park’, but later the owners (the Shaw Brothers of course!) renamed it ‘Jubilee Park’ […]

….when ‘Alvarez Kelly’ was being shown in Ruby Theatre. (Yes, on the far right is the cinema hall which was part of the Lau Ek Ching building, along Anderson Road.) William Holden played a ‘suave Mexican cattleman’ named Alvarez Kelly who unwillingly found himself caught in a Civil War. Well, to those of you who […]

The Home Guard was part of a defence strategy during the Malayan Emergency. Their role was a ‘static local defence’, and ‘manning of checkpoints’ to cut of supplies to CTs, particularly in the area of the New Villages. The Home Guard were said to release the police and military for counter-terrorist ops. Here we have […]

I’ve heard of the “Hell’s Angels” and other such motorcycle enthusiasts in America, but this one was quite a surprise – The Perak Lambretta Club! We don’t know WHERE these ‘fans’ lined up for a pose but we think the date was 1960. To what we know, the club was founded by (naturally) a motorcycle enthusiast William […]

Sports Day at St Bernadette’s Convent, Batu Gajah, was quite eventful in 1954 – the Teachers had their own little race. This picture was taken at the school’s new grounds (Jalan Pusing); the school was previously sharing its premises with the St Joseph’s Catholic Church. Far in the background are some curious spectators, probably wondering […]

The actress above was said to have “such wonderful eyes”. This picture was taken in the year 1931, and yes: she’s from IPOH! Any guesses as to WHO she is? (clue: her 1st movie was with Tom Walls and Ralph Lynn)

“In 1948 an appalling upheaval took place in Malaya……I was told by the Manager of Kamunting Estate when I made my routine visit that the Manager of Elphill Estate had been shot.” Thus, according to Dr Tweedie, was the start of the Malayan Emergency. Here we have a picture from that era (somewhere between 1948 – […]

As you folks out there know by now, we like guessing-games. Here is a postcard from the 1980s, of a “busy street stall” in Ipoh, selling moon cakes, fruits, lanterns, etc. Now, all YOU have to do is tell us WHERE in Ipoh this street is (truth is: we aren’t sure ourselves!). No prizes for […]

This is an aerial view of the ‘Bangunan Pasar’ (the Market). It almost looks like the market in Ipoh New Town, which was built by Yau Tet Shin ;notice the shape of the roof, at the top left corner of the picture. This market however is in Teluk Anson (now known as Teluk Intan). Was it also […]

This postcard shows an aerial view of Ipoh Old Town. We think the road meeting at the cross-junction are Jalan Panglima and Belfield Street. Among some of the famous landmarks which can be seen are the Birch Clock Tower, the Perak State Mosque, the Chung Thye Phin building, the Straits Trading Building and the Dramatist’s […]

This photograph was taken in Sitiawan, Perak – with the words ” Lian Jun Foo, ‘Suckling Pig’ ” written on the back. We think the car, behind the boy, is an Austin. Any antique-car lover out there could help us confirm this. As for the boy, he seems pretty confident with his pose – not […]

With a little prompting from Ignatius Chiew, we’ve decided to publish this class photograph from one of Ipoh’s famous boys’ school – St Michael’s Institution. Again, we are not too familiar with the year or the people. But from what we know, seated in the front (from left to right) are: the late Mr. Julianose […]

This lovely lass is said to be seated at the balcony of an old shop house in Ipoh. We’re not sure where about this place is, so some help would be nice. According to the kind soul who gave us the picture, one of the buildings in the background is the HSBC bank – which […]

This was found among a whole lot of scans sent to us. All the others were of Perak in modern times, but this one is clearly not modern. But the question is who are they? We would welcome your ideas.

Here we have a ‘friendly’ bus – ferrying the children around and also joining them on school trips. This picture was taken from the Main Convent Centenary Magazine. Judging by the number plate (AA 5084) and from the wordings in the magazine, we think this picture was probably taken around the year 1957. Anyone out […]

This is the S.M. Noor Recreation Park, in Batu Gajah, Perak. This picture was taken from a 1985 Calendar. From what we’ve found out, this place used to be one of the concert venues for local rock bands like Search, Wings, Lefthanded, May, Headwind, and so on. (The other venues around Ipoh being the Indera Mulia […]

This is a postcard featuring the Memorial Park. In the centre is a fountain, which seems to have attracted the attention of those two individuals on the left of it. On the plaque (centre, bottom) are the words “Memorial Park, 1948-1960”. From this, we understand that this was a remembrance of the Malayan Emergency and those who fell […]

This photograph was taken around the 14th of January 1953 by Himalaya Photo Studio, of No.117, Brewster Road, Ipoh. On the back of the photograph are Chinese characters which roughly translate to “Yuen Seng to Qing Er, with fond memories”. We guess that this was probably taken after a dance competition – note the trophies […]

This old picture turned up in Kampar amidst a whole lot of other local photographs originally belonging to a friend’s father. Of course it is not a Perak registration and may not even be in Perak, but being the eternal optimists we are posting it in case it is recognised. The guests seem to be […]

From the remarks on the back of this photograph, we believe that one of the boys in this event is Foo Boon Seng – who happened to be in Std. 4A in 1964. All Michaelians out there: If anyone knows more about this event do let us know; we also hope to hear from Mr […]

Here is a nice old picture of a Sungai Siput family, taken and framed by Mee Mee Photographer & Frame Makers. It came from a friend in Tanjung Rambutan but like us he knows nothing about it. Do you know anything or would you like to hazard a guess as to the name of the […]

This picture was taken by New Good Friend Studio & Frame Makers, of No.7 Theatre Street, Ipoh. It is believed to show the British District Officer wearing shorts in the centre, with a visiting Government Officer and the Village Council Members. Behind the group there appears to be an open building with a tiled roof, […]

This picture was taken inside an SMI classroom in 1966. It’s clearly marked Standard 5. Also pencilled faintly on the back is David Yee and Soon Yit Tan. We believe those standing at the back, from left ro right are: Bro. Gabriel, Mr. Khoo Kok Hean, Mr. Lim Guan Choe, the 1st Headmaster of SMI Primary […]

This old picture came from the same source as the one below. When did you last see so many trishaws in a Perak Street? But what street is it? There are no prizes for the correct answer, just the honour of demonstrating your knowledge of your old home town.

Putting up great old photos is always a pleasure and this one is no exception! Taken in Ipoh and probably dating around the 1930s this is a lesson in fashions of the times. Just look at the styles of clothing old and new, east and west that are included in this group. Front left is […]

This old picture of the temple elders is said to hang in one of the Chinese cave temples in Gopeng Road, Ipoh. Does anyone know which temple please?

This photograph came with the caption “An important street in Ipoh in 1950”. However we cannot name it nor decide why it is said to be important. Can you? Don’t be shy just drop us a line by clicking om “Leave a comment” under these words. We guarantee not to use your email for any […]

A few Special Constables were guarding the tin dredger from the communist bandits’ attacks. But we couldn’t find where the location was. Does anyone know the location? We will be happy to hear from you.

During the Malayan Emergency from 1948 to 1960 Communist attacks on roads and railways were a regular part of living in Malaya, particularly where transfer of cash was concerned. Consequently the railways introduced the Wickham Armoured Railcar as protection, but for the military and police isolated from the rail service it became normal to fly […]

This photograph taken by Kamy Studio, Ipoh has Chinese characters on the back which read: “To Ms Chai Kwai Ying, The Red Crane Band, 22-12-70.” If any one can tell us about this band we will be delighted to hear from you.

Does anyone recognise this family and their car, registration AA3. The photo came with some others from the albums of the Lau Ek Ching family of Ipoh and Pasir Pinji.

But can you name them all please?

But when was it and what were they celebrating?

But can anyone name them for us please?

Definitely Ipoh, but who are they? We would dearly love to know.

This small photo just two inches wide is marked on the back as above plus Standard IIIA. It is written by the same hand as the other ACS Senior Cambridge Class 1950 on this blog. Did the school change its name from ACS to MES in 1951? Is there anyone out there who attended the […]

This interesting looking group posing for their photograph on and around bags marked Toong Hing (at least I think that is what they say) are completely unknown to us. The photo came from Ipoh, but it could have been taken anywhere. On the back it simply says 1970. Has anyone got any guesses as to […]

Again found in a heap of photos in Ipoh, could this be a very early Police pilot taking off from Ipoh? We would love to know more if anyone out there knows. Of course he may not be a policeman. Incidentally when did the Police start flying patrols or their air wing? Not as […]

I have studied the dictionary but cannot make any sense of the office function. What did they do? The nearest I can get to is that they were inspectors or overseers of mineral diggings which probably means mining. Were they government staff or commercial? Please help with some answers and if possible some names. We […]

Picked up among a pile of Ipoh Photos this is clearly labelled on the back as above. If you know anyone from that era and school please tell them about this or tell us so that we may find out more. Thanks.

This is a photograph taken at Ipoh Airport. It is a large group and in the centre the two men dressed in suits are presumably important enough to draw the significant number of people to attend their arrival or most probably, departure. Of course with the demise of our airport photographs like this will be a […]

This is a rare photograph of a Kopitiam hawker cutting roast pork from a joint hanging above his chopping board, on which there is already a hearty portion of cut meat. Note the thickness of the board and how it is worn away on the side nearest to him. No doubt there is a customer anxiously […]

This came with a batch of SMI photos. but without any information. Where is the pool? Who are the boys and who is the European lady with their trainer? Can you help please?

Proud parents and grandparents maybe, pose for the graduation photo. Can anyone tell us who they are please?

Taken in Ipoh this is believed to be a birthday party, but does anyone recognise the group? There are several generations there. Please click on photo to enlarge.

This young man looks like the lone swimmer and scout pictured in December that it is suggested could be Dr. Lim Cho Luan. Does anyone have a contact for him or his brother please?

Surely there must be someone out there who knows about the old SMI scouts! Please help if you can.

This came in the same batch of pics as a lot of SMI. Where did they go camping and who can you recognise please?

Another SMI group, but I don’t think we have seen this Brother in earlier photos, or have we? Again there are some Scouts here, but so far we have not managed to get information about any of the Scout pictures. Any old Scouts out there please?

This photo has suffered badly from mishandling, probably by a young child as it has crayon scribbles all over the reverse. Nonetheless it is still clear enough for someone out there to identify who, where and when. We look forward to your posts.

This little photo is originally just 2 inches square. The girls costumes (or were they called ‘bathing suits’ in those days) are very interesting. Would today’s young ladies like the fashion? We are guessing the boys are from SMI. Who are they we wonder and when and where was the picture taken?

Written on the back of this is “That’s my guitar, Victor”. Who are they and Victor who?

We believe that Sheares Hall, Dunearn Road Hostel was used by University of Malaya. Is this correct and can anyone recognise some of the party people here please?

On the reverse of this photo taken by Tahlu Studio Ipoh is written 3-11-’57. But who is she? Her name and any other information would be great!

Could someone please confirm the location of this pool and if possible when the photo was taken and who is in the picture?

Now we are back in trouble with only the trees as background and no date, group title or names. I know someone out there can help. Please do.

Again not too much of a test as all we need is the names!

This is an easy one as we know where and when, but how about the names? Brothers, Masters or students would all be welcome.

I think we are now quite clear that this is at Tanjung Rambutan, but when was it and who are they? Could they be Scouts from SMI? Please try and recognise someone. For the first time viewer there are more river and scouts pictures below. Just click on the tags to find them.

I have just noticed that pencilled lightly on the back of this one is July 1963. Sitting to the left of the brother (as we look at it) with glasses is what I believe to be the same person as featured below under A Champion Swimmer and his Trophys and who we think may be Dr Lim.

Again we would love to know when this photo was taken, the class or group and the names of the brother, the teachers and any of the students please.

Written in pencil on the reverse is ‘Debating Society 1956’. Is this the Main Convent? Can any of the girls be recognised and named please?

Marked on the reverse of the photograph as in the title, this is a good start, but who are they and where? Does anyone recognise the initials MJC? Please help if you can.

Does anyone recognise these buildings. We are sure they are Ipoh and very early. If you can help, please do by commenting below.

We have no information about this shop other than we are assured it was in Ipoh. If anyone can identify the type of business, the location or the people in the shop we shall be delighted to hear from them.

The girls are out for a walk but where, when and who? Please let us have any help you can. Thanks.

At least we know which school and when, but can anyone identify the teacher or any of the students please?

Does anyone know where and when this was taken and who is in the picture? Maybe the building behind or the shape of the school badge might help. Please leave a comment if you have any information at all about the photo.

Originally known as the Convent of the the Holy Infant Jesus, the school was founded by Mother St. Victoire, supported by Mother St. Anatoli, Assistant General to the Priests’ Assembly in Paris. It opened on 7th January 1907, at a small house in the compound of the St. Michael’s Church (Ipoh), with only eight students. Initially, […]

Nothing is known about this picture of the Colonial Dispensary, although we are assured it is from Ipoh. There is the tail end of a car to the left of the picture with what looks like the Perak Registration A 707. The shopkeeper is holding a baby above the counter and there are half a […]

Another SMI Group, but when, what and who? Please help by letting us know about any details you may have about this picture.

Here we have girls and boys at the river, but which river, when was it and who are they? If you know anything about this picture please let us know.

Gathered around the table they are, but who are they and when and where was the photo taken? It looks like a school canteen, but which school? Please let us know if you can shed any light on this picture.

Probably from SMI, like the others below, this young man poses for his photograph. But who is he and when was the picture taken? If you know the answer, please let us know.

This is an interesting line-up. Does anyone know who they are or the story of the hats please? Can anyone tell us the date the photo was taken?

Does anyone recognise this car or the young man in the photograph please. We really would like to know where and when the photo was taken and who he is.

Again we have an unknown photograph, this time of a mixed group enjoying the cool of the river. Does anyone know who they are, which river are they in and what date was the picture taken please?

If we guess correctly this is a student from SMI swimming team and a very successful one too! But who is he and when was this taken. Someone out there must know him and we would ask you to share his details with us please. There is now what appears to be a team or […]

But who are they and when was the photo taken? Can anyone help us fill in these details please?

Another SMI photo we need help with. Can you tell us when this was and who is in the picture please?

Here is a group photo from St Michael’s Institution. Does any one recognise the people and can you date it for us please?

This photo is one of a large number donated to us recently. Unfortunately no information came with them. This is going to be very difficult, but it is only a test of uploading photos. Nonetheless, can anyone give us any idea of where and when it is please? It is said to be Perak.