Page 14 - Issue 1

Basic HTML Version

12 | FireFlyz
get
away
A
S
we stepped into the waiting taxi at the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport,
having just flown in from Singapore, we got ready for a day’s
exploration of Ipoh city. Just taking some 20 minutes, we progressed
smoothly along the 6km short stint into Ipoh. If you are making the
trip from Kuala Lumpur (roughly 200 km in distance) via the North
South Expressway, the journey normally takes a few hours through
emerald rolling hills and along oil palm plantations. As you approach
the city, massive limestone hills, which are the natural iconic landmarks of Perak, can
be seen.
Recognised as the third municipality to be accorded a city status in 1988, after Kuala
Lumpur (1974) and Penang (1957) – Ipoh is the capital city of Perak state on the west
coast of peninsular Malaysia.
Founded by Sir Frank Swettenham, a British colonial resident in 1893, the city has
since those early days transformed into a thriving multicultural society and still retains its
intertwined old world charm.
Whilst the city is known for its trademark laid back atmosphere, with little traffic
throughout the year and just the occasional flash flood, many are certainly glad of the
slower pace of life and the time it affords for reflection and relaxation.
Driving down Dataran Bandaraya (Ipoh City Square or MBI Square), at the centre
of the Ipoh New Town precinct, one can find food stalls along the side streets where
The Call of
Old World Charm
Ipoh ‘Mari’
Ipoh is often seen as amongst the cleanest city inMalaysia
–andwith its laid back pace of life, makes for a truly pleasant
visiting experience.
The city is known for
its trademark laid back
atmosphere, with little traffic
throughout the year.
Photos:
Sanjitpaal Singh