Perak, a state that sits quietly in the heart of Peninsular Malaysia, offers a blend of old-world charm and rich history that is hard to find elsewhere.
I was fortunate to experience this hidden gem during a three-day trip in late October, when I joined the Media Fam Trip organised by the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC), in collaboration with the Foreign Affairs and the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry. The goal was to promote Malaysia's Muslim-Friendly Tourism (MMFT) to the world.
Accompanied by eight local media personnel and 13 tourism professionals, I had the privilege of travelling alongside representatives from countries such as Azerbaijan, Cambodia, France, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, South Africa, Turkey, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.
The journey offered a captivating blend of history, nature and culture, providing an ideal escape from the fast-paced life of Kuala Lumpur.
My journey started with a comfortable ride from Kuala Lumpur to Perak via the Electric Train Service (ETS). I have driven to Perak countless times and though the three hour drive is familiar, there is something uniquely peaceful about hopping on a train. It only took about two hours to reach Ipoh, the capital city of Perak, and the ticket was only RM45.
Comfortable, clean and convenient; everything you need for a relaxing journey. Sure, the view of the route could have been a bit more spectacular (I have heard the ETS to Perlis offers stunning scenery), but it did not matter. The journey itself felt like a mini-vacation on its own, especially with free WiFi and decent food on board.
Arriving in Ipoh, I was immediately captivated by the beauty and tranquillity of this historic city. Perak takes great pride in its history and Royalty, and it is easy to see why. The state’s name, "Perak,” means silver, which pays homage to its rich tin-mining history. In the past, the area’s booming economy attracted and gave birth to some of the wealthiest figures in the region.
The state’s colonial influence is evident in the architecture, particularly in Ipoh, where British colonial design meets local Malay, Chinese and Indian elements in a unique and charming blend. It is a city where history comes alive in the buildings, streets and stories.
One of my favourite stops was the Panglima Kinta Mosque, a hidden gem with a remarkable history. Built in 1898 by Datuk Panglima Kinta Muhammad Yusuff Lassam in memory of his late wife, the mosque blends British Colonial architecture with Mughal and Neoclassical motifs.
This fusion of cultures makes it stand out as a true symbol of the region’s diverse heritage. It is no wonder that the mosque is famously known as the "Taj Mahal” of Ipoh.
However, I felt a tinge of sadness that day as the rain prevented me from fully exploring the Ipoh Heritage Trail. But passing by landmarks like the Birch Memorial Clock Tower, the magnificent Ipoh City Hall, and the iconic Ipoh Tree left me in awe of the city’s historical charm.
Ipoh’s historical appeal does not stop in Ipoh. The Concubine Lane, for instance, tells a fascinating tale of a wealthy mining tycoon who gave his three wives their own lanes of shops as gifts. Today, the lane is a colourful reminder of Ipoh’s past, lined with murals, old-world shops and delicious street food.
I recommend visiting on a weekend when Concubine Lane buzzes with life, offering the perfect opportunity to soak in its vibrant atmosphere and embrace that tourist-in-your-own-city vibe. For a quieter experience, however, weekdays are just as delightful, providing a peaceful setting for a leisurely stroll.
Plus, with its charming murals and vintage-inspired streets, Concubine Lane makes a fantastic backdrop for OOTD photos!
For a change of pace, I also visited Kellie’s Castle in Batu Gajah. Built by Scottish planter William Kellie-Smith, the castle was meant to be a grand home with modern amenities like an elevator (the first in Malaysia!) and a rooftop for entertaining.
Sadly, Smith’s untimely death in 1926 left the castle incomplete, but the result is a fascinating historical site where you can marvel at its Moorish, Indo-Saracenic and Roman architecture.
For those drawn to the spooky-scary stuff, there are whispers of ghostly sightings here, with a few visitors claiming to have encountered an apparition resembling William Kellie-Smith himself. While I could not help but ponder the truth behind these eerie tales, there is no way you would catch me sticking around long enough to investigate!
That said, it is an incredible spot to explore, perfect for capturing scenic photos and snapping some awesome OOTDs.
Plus, no trip to Perak would be complete without visiting the majestic Ubudiah Royal Mosque in Kuala Kangsar. This mosque, built in 1913, is a breathtaking example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, with its gleaming golden dome and grand marble interior.
The mosque’s striking beauty, perched atop Bukit Chandan, makes it one of Malaysia’s most picturesque places of worship and the hospitality shown by the mosque’s staff only added to the warmth of the experience.
After three days immersed in history, architecture and authentic local experiences, the trip felt like a timeless journey, where every corner whispered a tale of its own. Perak offers a captivating journey through time, where the past and present intertwine seamlessly, inviting you to uncover hidden pieces of history as you wander its streets.
While it may lack the fast-paced energy of other destinations, the state's true charm lies in its tranquillity, rich narratives and the welcoming warmth that makes every visitor feel right at home.
What makes it even better is the presence of Muslim-friendly amenities, ensuring a welcoming and comfortable experience for travellers of all backgrounds. For those seeking a perfect mix of history, culture and peaceful escapes, Perak deserves a top spot on your travel list.