KEDAH SULTANATE - THE OLDEST CONTINUOUS ROYAL LINEAGES IN THE WORLD

To clarify, the Kedah Sultanate is recognised as one of the oldest continuous royal lineages in the world and the oldest unbroken independent kingship line in the Malay world, rather than the absolute oldest sultanate globally.

While it holds an extraordinary record of longevity, historical and semantic nuances distinguish its exact ranking:

Key Historical Realities:

• Establishment/date: formed as a Hindu kingdom around 634 CE, it officially transitioned into an Islamic Sultanate in 1136 CE (or 1474 CE according to alternative accounts).
• The Unbroken Lineage: The sultanate features as an unbroken line stretching over 880+ years ruled by a single royal family, spanning 29 successive monarchs up to the current ruler, Sultan Sallehuddin. 
• Global Context: Other Islamic sultanates, such as the Sultanate of Oman (ruling dynasty since 1744 but with roots in the ancient Imamate) and historical entities like the Ghaznavids or Seljuk, share deep roots, but Kedah boasts unmatched dynastic consistency. 

Historians and researchers note that the Kedah Sultanate is "arguably one of the oldest in the Islamic world" and stands as a unique monument to political survival, outlasting contemporary global counterparts like the British monarchy in terms of single-family continuity. 

To verify the longevity and unbroken lineage of the Kedah Sultanate, historians and archaeologists cross-reference a mix of internal royal records, regional literature, and physical archaeological evidence.

The primary and secondary sources that prove Kedah's status as one of the world's oldest continuous monarchies are broken down below:

1. Primary Sources (Contemporary Records & Archaeological Evidence)

Primary sources consist of direct physical evidence and historical documents written during or close to the eras in question: 

• Archaeological Evidence (Bujang Valley & Sungai Batu): Excavations led by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) provide physical proof that Kedah hosted a highly advanced, organised civilisation dating back to 788 BCE. Discoveries of ancient jetties, iron-smelting sites, and administrative monuments prove that a centralised, prosperous kingdom existed long before its Islamic transition.
• Ancient External Literature: The ancient Hindu/Buddhist era of Kedah is verified by international trade records. It is mentioned as "Kadaram" or "Kataha" in 2nd-century Tamil poetry (such as the Pattinappillai) and Sanskrit texts, proving an organised maritime power existed under a sovereign ruler.
• The Tomb of Sultan Mudzaffar Shah I: The physical gravestone of the first Sultan (who converted from Hinduism to Islam) serves as tangible, primary epigraphic evidence of the dynastic transition.
• Al-Tarikh Salasilah Negeri Kedah (Kedah Genealogy History): An official, indigenous genealogical record kept by the palace that chronologically tracks the births, successions, and lineages of the rulers.

2. Secondary Sources (Historical Chronicles & Academic Studies)

Secondary sources consist of narrative histories, royal annals, and peer-reviewed academic analysis compiled later to document the lineage:

• Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa (The Kedah Annals): the definitive national epic documenting the foundation of the royal lineage. It explicitly records the transition of the 9th Hindu King, Phra Ong Mahawangsa, into Sultan Mudzaffar Shah in 1136 CE, creating the unbroken Islamic Royal Line. 
• Sejarah Melayu (The Malay Annals): a prominent regional secondary source that corroborates the ancient existence of the Kedah royal family, though it places the official Islamic conversion date slightly later (around 1474 CE). 
• Modern Historiography & Academic Papers: Modern peer-reviewed research such as Dr Maziar Mozaffari Falarti's comprehensive research: "Kedah: The Foundation and Durability of Malay Kingship"

Summary of Proof

While the Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa provides the spiritual and genealogical narrative framework, the physical archaeological discoveries at Sungai Batu cement the timeline, proving that the modern Sultan of Kedah represents the continuation of a political structure that has governed the region for well over a millennium.

Newswav: The Kedah Sultanate is presently known as one of the world's oldest continuous lines of monarch institutions.

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

10 October 2020: 12:30 a.m.

MALAYSIA SENTIASA KALAH DENGAN INDONESIA? - ARTIS SENDU INDONESIA

Oleh: Helmy Efendy II

Ada artis sendu Indonesia, buat video kata bahawa Malaysia sentiasa kalah dengan Indonesia. Aku pun buatlah kajian, nak tengok sejauh mana kebenaran dia, apakah benar Malaysia sentiasa kalah dengan Indonesia… atau sebenarnya Indonesia dah ketinggalan jauh dengan Malaysia?

Mari kita lihat satu persatu.

Pertama, keamanan negara. Dalam Global Peace Index 2025, Malaysia menduduki tangga ke-13 daripada 163 negara dan wilayah, sedangkan Indonesia berada di kedudukan ke-49. Malaysia bahkan mengatasi Australia yang berada di tangga ke-18 dan Jerman di tangga ke-20.

Kedua, pembangunan manusia. Human Development Index 2025 oleh Pertubuhan Bangsa-Bangsa Bersatu meletakkan Malaysia di tangga ke-67 dunia, berbanding Indonesia di kedudukan ke-113. Indeks ini menilai pencapaian pendidikan, kesihatan dan taraf hidup rakyat.

Ketiga, pendidikan universiti. Berdasarkan QS World University Rankings 2026, Universiti Malaya berada di tangga ke-58 dunia, manakala Universitas Indonesia di tangga ke-189.

Malah, lima universiti awam Malaysia berada dalam kelompok 200 terbaik dunia. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia di tangga ke-126, Universiti Putra Malaysia dan Universiti Sains Malaysia berkongsi tangga ke-134, manakala Universiti Teknologi Malaysia di tangga ke-153.

Sebaliknya, Universitas Gadjah Mada berada di tangga ke-224 dan Institut Teknologi Bandung ke-255. Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS di tangga ke-251 turut mengatasi kedudukan Institut Teknologi Bandung.

Keempat, industri semikonduktor. Malaysia merupakan antara enam pengeksport litar bersepadu elektronik terbesar dunia. Berdasarkan data perdagangan 2024, nilai eksport Malaysia mencecah sekitar AS$76.85 bilion, berbanding Indonesia sekitar AS$747 juta.

Ini bermakna nilai eksport Malaysia dalam kategori tersebut melebihi 100 kali ganda Indonesia. Malaysia juga menyumbang sekitar 13 peratus aktiviti pemasangan, pengujian dan pembungkusan semikonduktor global.

Kelima, inovasi teknologi. Dalam Global Innovation Index 2025, Malaysia menduduki tangga ke-34 dunia, sedangkan Indonesia di kedudukan ke-55. Indeks ini menilai keupayaan inovasi melalui penyelidikan, teknologi, institusi dan pembangunan pengetahuan.

Keenam, daya saing ekonomi. Dalam IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2025, Malaysia berada di tangga ke-23 daripada 69 ekonomi, berbanding Indonesia di kedudukan ke-40. Indeks ini menilai prestasi ekonomi, kecekapan kerajaan, perniagaan dan infrastruktur.

Ketujuh, KDNK per kapita. Malaysia mencatatkan sekitar AS$13,125 pada 2025, sedangkan Indonesia sekitar AS$5,060. Jurangnya kira-kira 2.6 kali ganda. Ini merupakan ukuran pengeluaran ekonomi bagi setiap penduduk.

Kelapan, persepsi rasuah. Dalam Corruption Perceptions Index 2025, Malaysia menduduki tangga ke-54 dunia dengan skor 52 daripada 100, manakala Indonesia di tangga ke-109 dengan skor 34. Perbezaan ini memperlihatkan jurang dalam persepsi terhadap rasuah sektor awam.

Kesembilan, kekuatan pasport antarabangsa. Berdasarkan The Passport Index Global Ranking 2026 oleh Arton Capital yang dilaporkan pada September 2026, pasport Malaysia berada di kedudukan kedua terkuat dunia, berkongsi kedudukan dengan Singapura dan hanya di belakang Emiriah Arab Bersatu.

Pemegang pasport Malaysia mempunyai akses ke 175 destinasi, termasuk 129 destinasi tanpa visa dan 46 destinasi dengan visa semasa ketibaan.

Kesepuluh, capaian internet. Data Bank Dunia bagi 2024 menunjukkan sekitar 98 peratus penduduk Malaysia menggunakan internet, berbanding sekitar 73 peratus penduduk Indonesia. Ini memperlihatkan jurang besar dalam capaian digital kedua-dua negara.

Jadi, MALAYSIA atau INDONESIA yang sentiasa kalah dengan kami?

Sekarang mesti kita semua tertanya-tanya dari mana datang kebencian mahadasyat Indonesia pada Malaysia kan? Jawapannya ada dalam buku sahabat saya, Rafe Rahmat berjudul KONFRONTASI: GANYANG MALAYSIA yang anda boleh beli di Shopee: https://s.shopee.com.my/50Z9ux0XKs

SOEKARNO ialah ARKITEK kepada kebencian ini, dan buku ni menganalisis bagaimana datang kebencian ini yang sehingga hari ini tidak pernah lagi tamat!

C&P

9 Oktober 2026: 9:58 p.m.

MY PHOTO: HISTORIC & INTERESTING PLACES (JOHOR)

1981: JOHOR BAHRU

The first time I set foot in Johor Bahru was in 1981 at JB Railway Station, arriving from Ipoh by train. From here we were all taken by Navy transport to Woodlands, Singapore. 

JB Railway Station was built in 1931 in colonial style. The old railway was decommissioned in July 2010 when JB Sentral opened 200 metres away and is now preserved as the KTM Museum. 

JB Railway Station in 1981, on the way to participate in Merdeka Day 1981 at Dataran Merdeka KL. 

Johor Bahru in the 1980s, the tower in the middle in KOMTAR - Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak, 25 storeys built in the 70s. One of the oldest shopping complexes in JB, it was demolished and rebuilt as Komtar JBCC in 2014. 

2008: ZENXIN ORGANIC PARK, KLUANG, JOHOR

The visit to Zenxin Organic Park was an eye-opening experience for the members of the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM). As we arrived, the lush greenery and vibrant fields of organic crops greeted us, showcasing the commitment to sustainable agriculture.

During the tour, we learned about the various organic farming practices employed at Zenxin, from soil management to pest control, all aimed at producing high-quality, chemical-free produce. The staff shared their insights on the importance of organic farming not just for health but also for the environment, emphasising the role it plays in preserving biodiversity.

We also had the opportunity to taste some of the fresh produce, which was a delightful highlight of the visit. The flavours were rich and authentic, a testament to the care and dedication put into growing these crops.

Overall, the technical visit was not only informative but also inspiring, reinforcing the significance of organic farming in today's world. It was a reminder of how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand in the agricultural sector.

2014: TANJUNG PIAI, JOHOR

Tanjung Piai is a remarkable destination that holds the title of "The Southernmost Point of Mainland Asia". Located in the Pontian district of Johor, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

The area is renowned for its stunning coastal landscapes, where the land meets the sea, creating breathtaking views that attract both locals and tourists alike. The rich biodiversity found here is a testament to the ecological importance of the region, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Visitors to Tanjung Piai can explore the Tanjung Piai National Park, which features mangrove forests, walking trails, and observation platforms that provide opportunities to witness the diverse wildlife, including various bird species and marine life. The park is not only a sanctuary for nature but also serves as an educational hub, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.

In addition to its natural allure, Tanjung Piai is steeped in history and culture. The area is home to traditional fishing villages, where one can experience the local way of life and enjoy fresh seafood delicacies. The warm hospitality of the residents adds to the charm of this picturesque location.

Overall, Tanjung Piai is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty and cultural richness of Johor, making it a memorable stop on any journey through Malaysia.

2014: SEDENAK, JOHOR – THE PINEAPPLE CORRIDOR

On our way back to Kuala Lumpur after our events at Pontian, we stopped by at Sedenak Pineapple Corridor. The vibrant fields of pineapples stretched as far as the eye could see, a testament to the region's agricultural prowess.

As we wandered through the rows of golden fruit, the sweet aroma filled the air, inviting us to indulge in the local delicacies made from these juicy pineapples. We learned about the cultivation process from the friendly farmers, who shared their passion for sustainable farming practices and the importance of this crop to the local economy.

The visit was not just about the pineapples; it was an opportunity to appreciate the hard work and dedication of the farmers who contribute to this thriving industry. The lush landscape, combined with the warmth of the community, made our stop at Sedenak a memorable highlight of our journey.

We left with a newfound appreciation for the pineapple corridor, carrying with us not just fresh pineapples but also stories of resilience and commitment to quality that define this unique agricultural hub.

2018: TG. KUPANG MEMORIAL

Located at Jalan Kebun Teh JB is the mass burial site; the remains of MAS Flight MH653 are buried here after the fatal crash on 4 December 1977. 

It was the memorial of the 100 passengers and crew members killed when the Boeing 737 crashed at Tanjung Kupang. 

Notable victims included Malaysian Agriculture Minister Dato' Ali Hj Ahmad, Public Work Department Head Dato' Mahfuz Khalid and Cuban Ambassador to Japan Mario Garcia Inchaustegui. The pilot was Captain GK Ganjoor, and Flight Officer Kamaruzaman Jalil was both shot in the cockpit. 

2018: DANGA BAY, JB

During our events at AEON Permas Jaya, we took the opportunity to visit Danga Bay, formerly known as Pantai Lido. This vibrant waterfront destination is a perfect blend of leisure and entertainment, offering stunning views of the Johor Straits.

As we strolled along the promenade, the gentle sea breeze and the sound of waves created a relaxing atmosphere. Danga Bay is known for its beautiful parks, recreational areas, and a variety of dining options, making it an ideal spot for families and friends to gather.

We explored the various attractions, including the colourful amusement rides and the lively markets that showcase local crafts and delicacies. The sunset views over the bay were simply breathtaking, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs.

Overall, our visit to Danga Bay added a delightful touch to our events, allowing us to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Johor. It was a reminder of the diverse experiences that this state has to offer, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region.

Those are a few of the pictures I took while I was in Johor, capturing the essence of this vibrant state. Each image tells a story, reflecting the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and memorable experiences I had during my visits.

1. JB Railway Station– A snapshot of the historic station, showcasing its colonial architecture and the bustling atmosphere of travellers coming and going.

2. Zenxin Organic Park – A serene view of the lush organic fields, highlighting the dedication to sustainable farming and the beauty of nature.

3. Tanjung Piai – A breathtaking landscape of the southernmost tip of mainland Asia, where the land meets the sea, offering a glimpse of the unique biodiversity of the area.

4. Sedenak Pineapple Corridor – A vibrant image of the pineapple plantations, capturing the essence of this agricultural hub and the hard work of the local farmers.

5. Danga Bay – A picturesque waterfront scene, showcasing the modern development alongside the natural beauty of the bay, perfect for leisurely strolls and family outings.

Each picture serves as a reminder of the wonderful moments spent in Johor, a place that holds a special place in my heart.

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

8 October 2026: 9:27 p.m.

ME AND TAIPING, MY BIRTHTOWN

The white quarter with a red roof. Photo taken in 2003, 42 years after my family left Taiping. The paint was peeling, but the roof tiles still held. 

I was born at Kelapa Line Quarters, at Jalan Kamunting Lama, Taiping, Perak, on 2 July 1961. An army quarter at the foot of Bukit Larut, where the clouds come down to touch the red tiles.

"Saya anak Taiping. Dan Taiping, seperti emak, tidak pernah lupa – walaupun kita yang lupa jalan pulang...."

"Taiping does not shout. It whispers. In rain on zinc, in morning mist off Larut, in the way old names stay on signboards long after people leave."

"Rumah Kerajaan tidak mewah, tapi dia mengajar kita arti cukup. Enough..."

MALAYAN SPECIAL FORCE TO CONGO (ONUC)

During those years in Taiping, my father, Allahyarham 2059 Maamor bin Sudin, served with the 7th Battalion, the Royal Malay Regiment (7 RAMD), and was selected as one of the first Malaysian soldiers to serve internationally under the United Nations Flag in Congo, Africa. They were sent to Congo to stabilise the country following the "Congo Crisis".

7 RAMD based in Taiping, Perak, left the country onboard the USNS R.M. Blatchford on 17 February 1962 and arrived at Port Dar-es-Salam on 27 February 1962. The team was stationed in Bukavu, Congo. 

Malaysian military personnel from Squadron A, 1st Reconnaissance Regiment, under the command of Major Harchand Singh, assisted the battalion.

During the service of 7 RAMD in Congo, the battalion lost one member, Private 13560 Sionah bin Jantan, who died from drowning in the Bukavu River on 6 June 1962. The battalion returned to the country on 8 January 1963.

For more details and photos of Congo, kindly click the link below:

https://zulheimymaamor.blogspot.com/2026/04/7th-battalion-royal-malay-regiment-1953.html

KAMUNTING IN THE 60S

My eldest brother, my Abang Sulong, entered the King Edward VII when our family lived in Taiping. The school was already 80 years old then. It was the oldest school in the Malay States, founded in 1883.

Photo taken in 2017 when I was on an assignment in Taiping.

THE FIRST OF TAIPING

They say Taiping has 40 firsts in Malaysia, such as the first newspaper, the first museum, the first English school, the first railway station, the first rest house, etc.... It can feel like a list. Walk at Jalan Stesen in the morning; you will understand: this was a town built to be first, because Larut had tin and tin had money, and money needed order. 

References:

1. Sembang Kuala: 40 "First" of Taiping. 
2. Taiping Heritage: The 'First' in Taiping.
3. OO cities: Taiping's Many Firsts. 
4. Malaysia Travel: Discover some of 'Malaysia's First' via Taiping's Heritage Trail. 

The 1885 Railway Station – first in Malaysia. Now a kopitiam where time is measured in kopi refills, not departures. 

Muzium Perak at Taiping on 3 February 2003 during my family vacation. During my visit in 2003, the museum was already 120 years old. The oldest museum in Malaysia. 

Founded by Sir Hugh Low in 1993, the 4th British Resident of Perak (1877-1889), he built it with Sir Frank Swettenham through fundraising efforts.

Rest House, blue hoarding. The first rest house in Malaysia. 

Taman Tasik Taiping, Bandar Warisan, in 2015. Malaysia's first public garden, established in 1880 during British rule. Taiping was the capital of Perak and got all the firsts. 

Ansari Cendol and Rojak at Jalan Barrack, since 1940. If Taiping has a taste, this is it - cold, sweet with a bite. 

RETURNING - 2003 

In 2003, at the age of 42 years old, for the first time I stood in front of the house I was born in; my wife took a photo. That house was still standing; the paint was gone in patches. Someone had left a pail. But it was still mine, in the way birthplaces are. 

Me, in 2003, age 42 years old, in a camouflage shirt, standing where my mother once held me at the doorway. 

Photo taken in 2017 (14 years after my first visit in 2003).

RETURNING 2017

On the morning walk in December 2017, just a few steps from my hotel (Cherry Inn), I stood there in front of my brother's old school, the King Edward VII, the oldest English school in the Malay States, founded in 1883. 

On the same day, I walked to the Taiping War Cemetery. Among the stones, a smaller memorial: "Our Gallant Old Edwardians, Lest We Forget."

These were boys from King Edward VII who joined the Federated Malay States Volunteer Force; they went south to defend Singapore. They fell on 15 February 1942, the day of the fall of Singapore. They returned to Taiping in a body bag. Their story has never been told.

I stood a long time. My brother's old school, my birthplace, and these boys who never got to be old men like me in camouflage shirts in front of quarters. 

Taiping War Cemetery – The final resting place for Allied personnel killed during World War II, specifically the Malayan Campaign from Dec 1941 to Feb 1942, when Japanese forces pushed down the west coast of Malaya. Also known as the Commonwealth War Cemetery.

Built 1946-1947 and established by Major J.H. Ingram, who led 30 men of the No. 46 War Graves Registration Unit. Their gruesome task was recovering bodies from battlefields, temporary burial grounds, and village cemeteries all over Malaya and re-irringing them here.

Location: Jalan Bukit Larut, about 2 km past Taman Tasik Taiping.

The FMSVF were the local volunteer forces — Chinese, Malay, and Indian volunteers from Perak who fought alongside British, Australian, and Indian Army battalions. Taiping itself was a garrison town with an Indian Army battalion, a casualty receiving station, and the Indian 20th Combined General Hospital during the retreat to Singapore.

The two graves above, both died in early 1942, during the fall of Malaya. My photo shows the FMSVF badge clearly at the top of the stones — the shield with the Federated Malay States emblem and crown.

'Lest we forget' is not a slogan. In Taiping, it is an address – you can walk to it. They left Taiping for Singapore but returned in a body bag.

My photo, my return to Taiping, was taken on 17 December 2017 at 8.15 a.m. in old Taiping town, near Jalan Barrack and Ansari Cendol. 

Jalan Panglima Ah Chong is named after So Ah Chong, leader of Ghee Hin during the Larut Wars in 1862-1873. 

In reality, he was not just a leader of a Kongsi Gelap or secret society; he was the de facto administrator, tax farmer, employer of 15,000 coolies, and founder of the town itself. 

Chung Keng Quee (Hai San) controlled the largest tin mine in Malaya by 1887, and So Ah Chong controlled the other half of Larut. There is also Jalan Chung Thye Phin (son of Chung Keng Quee), just 50 m apart. 

I was born on Old Kamunting Road in 1961 – this is literally the history of my birth town. 

A classic house, just opposite King Edward VII Primary School, just next to my hotel (Cherry Inn). One of the Taiping Heritage shop-houses/peranakan houses that the Taiping Municipal Council has been trying to conserve under the Taiping 2020 heritage plan — about 100 such houses identified in the old town.

What Remains

As I write this in 2026, two things are happening at once.

The Rest House is being restored as the 1969 Heritage Rest House, timed for Visit Malaysia 2026. Blue hoarding is down, and timber is being repaired properly — or so the board says. Taiping finally understands what it has: the first rest house in the country, sitting 200 metres from the first railway station. It should never have been left to rot.

And Kelapa Line Quarters — my birth house — is on a list. Government quarters list: 100 abandoned buildings in Perak. Overgrown, roof leaking, and termites perhaps. Majlis does not know what to do with them. Too small to be heritage, too historic to be demolished. So they wait.

That is why I kept my photos. The 2003 one and the 2017 one with lalang. They may be the last record. When I took them, I thought I was documenting nostalgia. Now I think I was doing kerja arkib — archival work, without knowing.

"Taiping does not need you to remember it. It remembers itself."

If you have a quarter, a kampung house, or a longhouse you were born in, go and photograph it now. Not with a drone, not for Instagram. Just stand in front, ask someone to take your photo, and write the date behind it. One day, it will be the only proof you were once small there. 

References:

1. Zulheimy Maamor: 7th Battalion, The Royal Malay Regiment - 2059 WO2 Maamor bin Sudin. 

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

7 October 2026: 1:27 a.m.

MY PHOTO: HISTORIC AND INTERESTING PLACES (PERAK)

1980: JETI PULAU PANGKOR

The old Pulau Pangkor Jetty in 1980, before Marina Island existed. In the 1980s, from Lumut town Jetty, it took about 40 minutes, first stopping at Sungai Pinang Kecil Jetty, then Jetty Pangkor. 

Pulau Pangkor is rich in history and culture, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring its historical sites. Some notable historical sites you can visit:

1. Dutch Fort (Fort De Luister)

Built in the 17th century by the Dutch, this fort served as a strategic military outpost. Although much of it has eroded over time, the remnants still tell the story of colonial struggles in the region.

2. Batu Bersurat (Inscribed Stone)

This ancient stone, located near the beach, is inscribed with historical writings that date back to the 18th century. It serves as a reminder of the island's rich past and its significance in maritime trade.

Pangkor Jetty in 2012

1981/2013: KELLIE'S CASTLE, BATU GAJAH, PERAK

The first time I saw Kellie's Castle was in 1980 while travelling on an express bus from Lumut to Kuala Lumpur. 

It was a captivating sight, nestled amidst lush greenery and surrounded by a sense of mystery. The castle, built by the Scottish planter William Kellie Smith, stood as a testament to his ambition and dreams.

As the bus rolled by, I couldn't help but be drawn to its unique architecture, a blend of Moorish and Indian influences that made it stand out from the typical structures in Malaysia. The stories of its construction, the tragic tale of Kellie Smith, and the rumoured hauntings added an air of intrigue that lingered in my mind long after the bus had left the site behind.

I promised myself that one day, I would return to explore its halls and uncover the secrets hidden within its walls. And it was in 2013 that I had the opportunity to visit the Kellie's Castle with my family, as it had been turned into a tourist destination in Perak. 

1985: BUKIT UNGKU BUSU, LUMUT, PERAK

The hill was named after Raja Engku Busu of Selangor, who was invited by the Sultan of Perak in the 1840s to help get rid of pirates who were rife in this area at the time. However, Raja Engku Busu was killed in the area, leading to the mission's failure.

However, Engku Busu's death caused controversy because he was recorded by Museum Lukut to be killed with his family in the Kongsi gelap uprising in September 1834. Many historians consider the 1834 Lukut as the correct date for Raja Busu's death. The Bukit Engku Busu version is oral tradition/local toponymy—not a written Perak court record. Whether it is two people with the same title conflated.

1985: TELUK MUROH & TELUK BATIK, LUMUT, PERAK

Teluk Muroh is a coastal village located at the southern edge of Lumut town in the Manjung District of Perak. It is situated along Jalan Teluk Muroh, which serves as the main route to the TLDM Lumut Naval Base, Teluk Batik, and Marina Island.

Teluk Batik lies approximately 7 km from Lumut town and is just a 10-minute drive from Bandar Seri Manjung. Both Teluk Muroh and Teluk Batik are part of the same coastal stretch, with access provided via Jalan Teluk Muroh. 

Teluk Muroh, Lumut, Perak

Teluk Batik, Lumut, Perak

2003: KELAPA LINE QUARTERS, KAMUNTING, TAIPING, PERAK

I was born on July 2, 1961, at Kelapa Line Quarters, the old British Army barracks on Jalan Kamunting Lama. It wasn't until 42 years later, in 2003, that I had the opportunity to visit my birthplace.

When I returned in 2017, I found that much of the heritage had been lost, replaced, or overtaken by jungle.

During that time, my father served with the 7th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment and was stationed at Kem Kamunting. My eldest brother attended S.K. King Edwards VII in 1963.

2003: MASJID UBUDIAH, KUALA KANGSAR, PERAK

During a family vacation in Taiping, we stopped at the Ubudiah Mosque in Kuala Kangsar, Perak, to perform prayers on our way back to Kuala Lumpur.

Located at Bukit Chandan, Jalan Istana, Kuala Kangsar, Masjid Ubudiah, the Royal Mosque of Perak, is consistently voted as Malaysia's most beautiful mosque. 

Built in 1914 and commissioned by the 28th Sultan of Perak, Sultan Idris Murshidul'adzam Shah, as an act of thanksgiving for recovery from an illness.

It was designed by A.B. Hubback, the same man who designed KL Railway Station and Ipoh Railway Station. 

2003: PERAK MUSEUM, TAIPING

The oldest museum in Malaysia. Founded by Sir Hugh Low, the 4th British Resident of Perak, in 1883. He built it with Sir Frank Swettenham through fundraising efforts. Its first curator was Leonard Wray Jr, a botanist and geologist. 

Taiping at the time was the capital of Perak and the first proper town established by the British in Malaya. 

The Australian-made Avon Sabre, RMAF F-86, registration FM19-17, was on display outside the Perak Museum. 

2012: GREEN RIDGE, KAMPAR

The most historic spot in Perak, the actual battle of Kampar site, is up the ridge. Green Ridge is the site for the battle that took place on 30 December 1941 between the 11th Indian Division (British Battalion formed from the 1st Leicestershire Regiment, 2nd East Surrey Regiment, Jat-Punjab Regiment, Gurkas and Sikhs) and the Japanese 5th Division under Lt Gen Takuro Matsui. The Japanese lost so many men, and it was the first serious defeat for the Japanese in the Malayan Campaign. 

2015: TAIPING LAKE GARDEN

Malaysia's first public garden, established in 1880. An abandoned tin mining ground, it was the idea of Colonel Robert Walker and developed by British administrator Charles Compton Reade into a recreational haven. 

2015: MARINA COVE, LUMUT, PERAK

Our family vacation at Marina Cove in Lumut in 2015 was a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Nestled along the beautiful coastline along Teluk Muroh in Lumut, Perak, Marina Cove offered a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

We spent our days soaking up the sun on the sandy beaches, enjoying the gentle sea breeze while the kids built sandcastles and splashed in the waves. The stunning views of the sunset over the horizon were truly breathtaking, creating unforgettable memories that we cherished as a family.

One of the highlights of our trip was exploring the nearby islands. We took a boat tour that allowed us to visit the picturesque Pangkor Island, where we indulged in fresh seafood and explored the local culture. The vibrant marine life also provided an opportunity for snorkelling, which was a thrilling experience for everyone.

In the evenings, we gathered at the Marina's restaurants, savouring delicious local dishes and sharing stories about our day's adventures. The warm hospitality of the staff made us feel right at home, adding to the overall charm of our stay.

As we packed our bags to leave, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the wonderful experiences we shared at Marina Cove. It was a vacation filled with laughter, exploration, and bonding, and we left with our hearts full and a promise to return someday.

2017: JALAN PANGLIMA AH CHONG, TAIPING, PERAK

Named after So Ah Chong, the leader of the Chinese Secret Society, Ghee Hin, during the Larut Wars from 1862 to 1873 between the Ghee Hin and Hai San.

In reality, he was not just a ganster; he was the de facto administrator, tax farmer, employer of 15,000 coolies and founder of the town itself.

2017: STESEN KERETAPI TAIPING

The historical significance of Malaysia's first railway station, which opened on 1 June 1885, cannot be overstated. Located in Taiping, this station marked a pivotal moment in the country's transportation history, facilitating trade and travel across the region.

As the first railway hub, it played a crucial role in connecting various towns and cities, contributing to the economic development of Malaya during the colonial era. The architecture of the station reflects the colonial style of the time, showcasing intricate designs that have withstood the test of time.

Over the years, the station has witnessed countless journeys and stories, serving as a reminder of the evolution of transportation in Malaysia. Today, it stands not only as a functional railway station but also as a heritage site, attracting visitors who wish to explore its rich history and significance in the development of the Malaysian railway system.

The station's legacy continues to inspire future generations, highlighting the importance of rail travel in shaping the nation's infrastructure and connectivity.

Taiping Rest House at Jalan Stesen, opposite S.K. King Edward VII and next to the old Railway Station. It was built in 1879 as a single-storey residence for the British Governor of the Straits Settlements. Converted to a rest house in 1894, it became Malaysia's first rest house. 

The status in 2026 was under active restoration to reopen as a heritage hotel. 

2017: TAIPING WAR CEMETERY

The final resting place for Allied personnel killed during World War II, specifically the Malayan Campaign from December 1941 to February 1942. It is also known as the Commonwealth War Cemetery. It is located at Jalan Bukit Larut, about 2 km past Taman Tasik Taiping. 

Built in 1946-47 and established by Major J.H. Ingram, who led 30 men of No. 46 War Graves Registration Unit. 

Over 850 burials, with over 500 unidentified, are maintained immaculately by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission to this day. 

It also has local Malayan soldiers who died during the war, as in my photo the two graves of:

1. 10967 Corporal Chan Kam Weng – Federated Malay States Volunteer Force, died on 15 February 1942, age 35. 
2. 12243 Private Abdul Rahman bin Ahmad – Federated Malay States Volunteer Force – died 1 January 1942, age 19, with a Jawi inscription. 

2017: HERITAGE HOUSE, TAIPING

One of the Taiping shophouses/Peranakan houses that the Taiping Municipal Council has been trying to conserve under the Taiping 2020 heritage plan – about 100 such houses identified in the old town. 

Most of these houses on Jalan Stesen, Taiping, were built by the wealthy Hakka/Cantonese tin miners. 

2017: FAMOUS CENDOL AND ROJAK AT TAIPING

Restoran Ansari Famous Cendol, located at 92, Jalan Barrack, Taiping, Perak. Founded in 1940 by Abdul Kader, an Indian-Muslim emigrant. Now in its 3rd generation, fun is done by his grandson, Ansari Abdul Rahman. 

2017: S.K. KING EDWARDS VII, TAIPING

Founded in 1883 as Central School, built on the land of Malaysia's first railway station, it had stood right opposite the Taiping Rest House (Malaysia's first rest house, 1894). 

Named after King Edward VII in conjunction with his coronation in 1901. The school was inaugurated by H.R.H. Sultan of Perak in 1905 with 434 students.

The school was occupied by the Japanese Army as HQ of the Kempetai during World War II. 

My eldest brother was a student at this school in 1963, when my late father was stationed at the Kamunting Camp in Taiping.

2018: THE LABU SAYONG, KUALA KANGSAR

The famous Labu Sayong at Kuala Kangsar in Perak was made only in Sayong, a subdistrict 1 km-10 km from Kuala Kangsar on the opposite bank of Sungai Perak. 

Labu Sayong is a black, gourd-shaped erthenware water pitcher; it's not just pottery, it's Perak's cultural icon. There's even a traditional dance called the "Tarian Labu Sayong".

So when you see that huge Labu Sayong in the roundabout—it's Kuala Kangsar saying, "This is who we are."

2018: KUALA KANGSAR

The photo of Kuala Kangsar, captured from Sayong Resort during my overnight stay, beautifully showcases the serene landscape and the charming architecture that defines this historic town.

Staying at Sayong Resort not only provided comfort but also offered a unique vantage point to appreciate the beauty of Kuala Kangsar. Each moment spent there was a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that this town has to offer.

I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to immerse myself in such a captivating environment, where every corner tells a story and every view is a postcard-perfect memory.

The resort was founded by Dato' Seri Ismail Shahudin (born in Kuala Kangsar), and his wife sits right on the banks of Sungai Perak, about 1.6 km from the town centre. 

Jambatan Iskandariah, built in 1932 to replace the Enggor pontoon bridge that was washed away in the Big Flood of December 1931. It was officially opened by Sultan Iskandar Shah on 29 June 1932. 

2018: MENARA CONDONG TELUK INTAN

The Malaysian Pisa, built 1885-1886 by contractor Leong Chon Chong for water storage for the dry season & firefighting and the clock tower to keep time. It is also a beacon for boats coming into Teluk Anson (the old name of Teluk Intan). 

The chiming clock was installed in 1894 and bought from J.W. Benson, Ludgate Hill, London. 

Why it leans: Built on soft, muddy ground with a heavy water tank on top. After a flood in 1895, it started tilting to the southwest. That's the lean you see today.

OLD HOUSE IN LUMUT, PERAK

This old house is famous among paranormal groups as "Rumah Misteri". However, it is not in any record that this house is haunted; it's just a classic house that was simply left after the land was cleared. 

The state of Perak is truly synonymous with me, as it was there—specifically in Taiping—that I was born.

Taiping, with its rich history and vibrant culture, holds a special place in my heart. The memories of my childhood, the stories passed down through generations, and the beautiful landscapes of this town have shaped who I am today.

From the serene Taiping Lake Garden to the bustling streets filled with heritage shophouses, every corner of Taiping tells a story. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine, creating a unique tapestry of experiences that I cherish deeply.

As I reflect on my roots, I am reminded of the warmth of the community, the delicious local cuisine, and the rich traditions that continue to thrive. Taiping is not just my birthplace; it is a part of my identity, a place that has influenced my journey in countless ways.

I look forward to sharing more about my experiences in this remarkable town and how it has shaped my life.

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

6 October 2026: 5:40 p.m.