The newly transformed Ipoh Town Hall is now a vibrant arts centre, blending heritage and modernity.
Historical buildings transformed under heritage project
IN an effort to elevate Ipoh’s tourism sector in Perak, the Northern Corridor Implemen-tation Authority (NCIA) has completed the Ipoh Heritage Tourism Project (IHTP).
This initiative includes a series of transformative undertakings that are already making waves in the city’s historical quarters.
New chapter for old town
The project focuses on revitalising Ipoh’s old town precinct, located near vital railway connections that link Kuala Lumpur and Padang Besar in Perlis.
This area holds immense potential as a tourism hub and NCIA’s efforts aim to fully realise this promise.
Ipoh Padang now features a facade for light and sound shows that showcase the rich heritage of Perak.
Key redevelopment projects
The IHTP has been divided into several key packages.
IHTP Package 1A focuses on Ipoh Padang, a historical field in the heart of the city, while Package 1B targets the picturesque Kinta Riverwalk.
Both areas have undergone significant redevelopment to enhance their appeal and accessibility.
Ipoh Padang now features a captivating light and sound spectacle that draws visitors into the rich tapestry of Perak’s heritage.
This immersive experience not only highlights historical narratives but also pays tribute to local luminaries such as cartoonist Datuk Mohd Nor Khalid, better known as Lat.
The revitalised Ipoh Padang was handed over to Ipoh City Council (MBI) in March 2022 and has since become a focal point for cultural activities.
Kinta Riverwalk, a scenic pathway along the river, has seen comprehensive upgrades, including better pedestrian access and the establishment of commercial frameworks to support local businesses.
The enhanced riverwalk offers a serene environment for both locals and tourists to enjoy, further cementing Ipoh’s status as a prime tourism destination.
From heritage to modern art
While 1A and 1B Packages focus on outdoor spaces, IHTP Package 2 delves into architectural conservation and adaptive reuse.
The iconic Ipoh Town Hall has been transformed into a performing arts centre, fostering creative expression and community engagement.
Concurrently, the historical Old Post Office has been reinvented as a state-of-the-art digital art gallery, blending the old with the new.
The completion and handover of these projects to MBI in June 2024 mark a new era for the historical buildings.
Overall, NCIA has earmarked RM15mil for IHTP, reflecting its substantial investment in the city’s cultural and economic future.
NCIA chief executive Mohamad Haris Kader Sultan said these initiatives were integral to the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) Strategic Development Plan (SDP) 2021-2025.
The plan aims to stimulate business activity, create job opportunities and ultimately fortify Perak’s tourism ecosystem, ensuring long-term economic benefits for the local population.
Community and visitor impact
The IHTP is not just about physical transformation; it’s also about enriching the lives of both residents and visitors.
By preserving cultural landmarks and fostering new artistic expressions, the NCIA is creating a vibrant, multifaceted experience that celebrates Ipoh’s storied past while embracing its future.
As tourists stroll through the rejuvenated Old Town, they can now experience a seamless blend of history and modernity.
From the tranquil paths of Kinta Riverwalk to the vibrant performances at the new performing arts centre, it offers an enriched journey.
By revitalising key cultural sites and enhancing visitor experiences, the project not only boosts tourism but also contributes to the economic resilience and cultural vitality of Ipoh.
