PERAK STATE, MALAYSIA

Introduction

Perak Darul Ridzuan, the Land of Grace, covers an area of 21,000 square kilometres and has a population of about two million.

The state is divided into nine districts and its major towns include lpoh, Kuala Kangsar, Taiping, Teluk Intan and Lumut. Kuala Kangsar is the royal town of Perak, while lpoh is the administrative centre and state capital.

There are several versions as to the origin of Perak. Some say that the name "PERAK" came from Bendahara Tun Perak of Malacca while some say that it came from the "glimmer of fish in the water" that sparkled like silver, or Perak as it is known in Malay. Therefore, the mere mention of the state's name will reflect the treasures hidden in its earth.

The Perak State, in actual fact, has been in existence since the prehistoric age. Kota Tampan in Lenggong is the one and only proof that the Palaeolithic Age existed in Malaya. The Perak State went through numerous evolutions between 400 000 BC and 8000 BC.

The state had experienced the Hoabinhian Era and the Neolithic Age as well as the Metal Age, which was proven with the findings of relevant ancient artifacts.

Then came the Hindu/Buddha era. It was thought to have occured simultaneously with the rest of Malaya.
After this period, the history of the state advanced a step further with the formation of minor territories such as Manjung in the Dinding District and Beruas which came into existence after Manjung ceased to exist. This also apply to a few other territories in the Perak Tengah and Hulu Perak. It was also then that Islam began to plant its roots firmly in the state.

Historically Perak's history actually began with the installation of Sultan Muzaffar Shah 1, who was a descendent of Sultan Mahmud Shah of Malacca, in the year 1528. Although the Perak Sultanate had formed the territorial powers were still in effect. The administrative method was an extension of the democratic feudal system of Malacca.

Perak became more prominent with the discovery of tin in Larut, Taiping in 1848 by Long Jaafar. With this discovery, Perak's economy boomed and more mining areas were brought into existence. In addition to tin ore, natural rubber also played an important role and is still being planted after the reign of 33 or 34 consecutive Sultans.

Due to this significant implication of economic development resulted in the birth of a multiracial society especially with the introduction of the Chinese into the mining area.

The British who had long been interested Perak, intervened through the Pangkor Treaty in 1874 after a riot in Larut. As a result of this intervention, the Residential system was introduced with James W.W Birch as its first Resident.

Initially, the Residential system was supposed to yield positive results. However, because it deviated from its original cause, compled with the natives' refused to be colonized led to an uprising against the Resident under the leadership of Datuk Maharaja Lela. As a result J.W.W Birch was assassinated in 1875.

The Residential system continued until the arrival of the Japanese to Malaya in 1941. The Perak State also suffered, as did others, during the Japanese occupation of Malaya until the year 1945.

Even after the Japanese surrendered, the British still colonized Malaya until the year 1948. Violence was rampant then in Perak, due to Communist terrorism.

After the Japanese occupation in Malaya, the Malay States were not stable. The British did their utmost best to maintain their position by introducing new administration systems such as the Malayan Union in 1946, despite the people's nasionalistic spirit to seek independence.

The people of Malaya combined their efforts with all state dignitaries to fully rebel against all British systems. They continuesly oppressed until the British granted Malaya independence in 1957.

The independence of Malaya meant the freedom for all its Federated States, which Perak was a part of. Rapid development in all fields continued until today, after the reign of 34 consecutive Sultans.

Teluk Batik

Approximately 84 km south of Ipoh is the quiet coastal town of Lumut which is now the base of the Royal Malaysian Navy and the jumping-off point to Pangkor island. Many locals, however, do not take the ferry to Pangkor but instead head for Teluk Batik, a pleasant beach about 6 km from Lumut. Here the white sands and swaying coconut trees make it an ideal site for relaxation and swimming. At low tide, some hard corals become visible. Chalet accommodation is available.

Lumut

Lumut, the gateway to Pangkor Island, is situated about 84 km south of Ipoh City, Lumut is well known for its beautiful shell and coral handcrafts. The best time visit this dreamy little haven is between the months of August and November when the Annual Sea Festival "Pesta Laut" is held. There are sea sports competitions, cultural shows and fun and food fairs for everybody both young and old to enjoy. Do check with the Perak Tourist Information Center for the actual date the festival for the year. Linger awhile on the beautiful palm fringed shores of Teluk Batik, located approximately 6km from the town of Lumut. This strecth of beach is a favourite haunt for campers, picnickers and sun worshippers. The sparkling blue sea is enticingly warm and ideal for swimming. Canoeing ia another favourite sport along this stretch of coastal waters.

History

Lumut in Malay Language (Bahasa Malaysia) is mean moss, lichen, or seaweed. Why this town is being called Lumut? This is because in the earlier days, the beach in this town is rich of moss, so the local people called it Lumut. Once a relatively unknown fishing town it has since acquired the proud distiction of being the home base of the Royal Malaysian Navy and the take-off point for the beautiful offshore islands in the bustle of development taking place around it, the town still retains its quite charm.

Getting There
There're many ways to reach Lumut, the jump off point for Pangkor. Basically, the most easiest way to reach Lumut is to take bus.The Lumut Bus Station is near to the town centre, a five minute walk to the ferry jetty. Lumut is well connected with other destinations on the peninsula. There are direct buses from KL to Lumut run several times per day. There are daily buses from Butterworth to Lumut. A taxi or coach journey from Kuala Lumpur takes about four hours and from Butterworth (Penang) takes about three hours. Once in Lumut, can catch the ferry to Pangkor Island, a comfortable 45 minutes-long sea voyage. Regular bus and taxi services are available from all major towns to Lumut. For the latest news, the ferry services from Lumut to Medan, Indonesia has been closed recently. So, there is no more ferry to Medan.

Pangkor Island / Pulau Pangkor

Situated just off the west coast of Perak in Peninsular Malaysia is one of the most enchanting islands you'll ever come across. Pangkor has for centuries enthralled visitors with her charming beauty. In days of old, she was the refuge of seamen who sailed through the Straits of Malacca. Pangkor's many idyllic bays made it the perfect stopover. Pirates, adventurers, merchants and soldiers of fortune sought the peace and tranquility she had to offer.

In stark contrast to malaysia's fast-paced progress, Pangkor remains a haven for those seeking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Soak up the sun on her golden beaches. Catch sight of fishing boats

Remembering Pangkor's past...
For centuries, Pangkor has been a welcome stopover for weary sea travellers, pirates and adventurers. At one time even ruled by European conquerors. Yet, as if oblivious to the ravages of war and conquest, her natural wonders have remained unscarred. Perhaps to conquer your heart.

Pangkor today is a thriving tourist destination that somehow does not reflect her turbulent past. Visitors will be charmed by the serenity of her fishing villages, her small but bustling towns and her splendid selection of world-class holiday resorts.

Treasures of the island

Nothing beats the wonderful offerings of Pangkor's pristine beaches. And after you're had enough of the beach, retreat into the coll shades of virgin jungles for a closer look at nature. There's so much to do in Pangkor, so come discover at your own pace

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source: cuti.com