The Perak Museum, located in Taiping, holds the distinction of being the oldest museum in Malaysia, established in 1883 by Sir Hugh Low, the then British Resident of Perak. Housed in a beautiful heritage building that blends Neo-classical and Moorish architectural styles, the museum began as a repository for Sir Hugh Low’s collections focusing on natural history, ethnography, zoology, and geology.
Today, the museum boasts over 8,400 artifacts spread across four main galleries. The Nature Gallery features taxidermy displays and complete animal skeletons, including a notable elephant skeleton. The Cultural Gallery showcases Malaysian handicrafts, particularly intricate woven items and traditional wedding costumes. A dedicated gallery focuses on the Indigenous People (Orang Asli), displaying their masks, musical instruments, and unique craftsmanship, alongside a collection of century-old local pottery.
The museum also features an Outdoor Exhibit area displaying historical items like vintage cars, a railway carriage, and an old steam engine used in tin mining. Although originally focused on natural history, the Perak Museum now offers a comprehensive look into the rich cultural heritage and history of the state of Perak, making it a vital stop on the Taiping Heritage Trail.
