Royal Museum Istana Kenangan Kuala Kangsar
OPEN FOR PUBLIC. SOME AREAS MAY BE PROHIBITED.
CHARGES MAY APPLY FOR SOME AREAS OR ACTIVITIES.
Captivating testament to traditional Malay craftsmanship nestled in the royal town of Kuala Kangsar. Built in 1926 by master carpenter Haji Suffian and his sons, Zainal Abidin and Ismail, this architectural gem was commissioned by Sultan Iskandar Shah as a temporary residence during the construction of Istana Iskandariah.
What sets Istana Kenangan apart is its unique construction—entirely crafted from hardwood and woven bamboo panels, known as tepas, without the use of a single metal nail. Resting on 60 wooden pillars, the structure spans approximately 41 meters in length and 11 meters in width and when viewed from above, it resembles a sheathed sword—a symbol of Malay royalty.
After serving as Sultan Iskandar Shah's residence from 1931 to 1933, the palace transitioned into a venue for royal ceremonies and guest accommodations. In the 1960s, it was aptly named Istana Kenangan or "Palace of Memories", following restoration efforts led by Malaysia's first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj. By 1986, it was officially inaugurated as the Royal Museum Kuala Kangsar, preserving its legacy for future generations.
Visitors to the museum can explore exhibits detailing the rich history of Perak's monarchy, traditional Malay customs and the architectural significance of the palace itself. The museum operates from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with a midday break on Fridays and offers free admission to all. Located at Bukit Chandan, 33000 Kuala Kangsar, Perak Darul Ridzuan, it stands as a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Malaysia's royal heritage.
