This is the
place where the fires of Malay nationalism had first stirred. When the then
British Resident of Perak, J.W.W. Birch was assassinated on the bank of Sungai
Perak (Perak River), tension between the British colonial administration and
the Malays rose. It escalated into open conflict which eventually led to the
country's declaration of independence.
Apart from
settled about 70km of Ipoh, Pasir Salak Historical Complex devotes tribute to
warriors such as Dato' Sagor, and Dato' Maharaja Lela. There are memorials
erected in their honour, in the shape of a sundang (broad sword), a replica of
the type of knife used in the killing of Mr. Birch. Not only the warriors such
as Dato' Sagor and Dato' Maharaja Lela, who led the locals against the forces
of the British colonial administration, but there are lots of other historical
things, story and stuff that must not to be missed by anyone who visited this
historical complex typed of museum.
The
Historical Time Tunnel is the main attraction of the complex as the important
events of the Malays and Malaysia are highlighted and exhibited in the tunnel
via dioramas (series of pictures representing in continuous scenes). Other
occupying exhibits includes the burial site of Seputum who was also another
brave warrior of that time.
There is
also the house and fortress of Datuk Maharajalela and the lela rentaka which is
a type of cannon used by the Malays at that time. The complex is actually
situated along the banks of the Perak River and is often used as a venue for
river-related activities. The picturesque scenery by the historic Perak River
as well as the activities that can be done at the river also whirls another
"magnet" (attraction) to visitors.
Other
attractions at the complex include the J.W.W. Birch Monument, the grave of
Sipuntum (the alleged assassin), Datuk Maharaja Lela's fort, and two Rumah
Kutai (Perak traditional house) filled with local historical and cultural
artifacts. Below is the picture of Lela Rentaka, a type of cannon that being
used by the Malays at that time during the rebellion.
