Pasir Salak Historical Complex
OPEN FOR PUBLIC. SOME AREAS MAY BE PROHIBITED.
CHARGES MAY APPLY FOR SOME AREAS OR ACTIVITIES.
This historical complex commemorates the pivotal events of 2 November 1875, when James W.W. Birch, the first British Resident of Perak, was assassinated during the second day of Eid al-Fitr celebrations. This act of defiance, led by local heroes such as Dato' Maharaja Lela and Dato' Sagor, ignited the Perak War and became a catalyst for the burgeoning nationalist movement that eventually culminated in Malaysia's independence on 31 August 1957.
The complex's centerpiece, the Terowong Sejarah (History Tunnel), offers visitors an immersive journey through Malaysia's storied past. Spanning 157 feet in length and 115 feet in width, this museum houses 42 meticulously crafted dioramas that chronicle significant episodes from early settlements in Kuala Selingsing circa 200 BC to the nation's struggle against various colonial powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, British and Japanese. These exhibits provide a vivid portrayal of the country's path to sovereignty.
Beyond the History Tunnel, the complex features a range of historical structures and monuments. Visitors can explore traditional Perak Malay houses known as Rumah Kutai, including Rumah Kutai I, constructed around 1896. The site also encompasses the fortress and residence of Dato' Maharaja Lela, the Lela Rentaka cannons used during the resistance and the Tugu Pahlawan Perak - a monument adorned with a sundang, symbolizing the bravery of Malay warriors.
Situated approximately 80 kilometers from Ipoh, the Kompleks Sejarah Pasir Salak is accessible via the North-South Expressway, exiting at the Simpang Pulai Interchange and proceeding towards Kampung Gajah. The complex operates daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with a brief closure on Fridays between 12:15 PM and 2:45 PM. Admission fees are RM4.00 for adults and RM2.00 for children aged 7 to 12.
