Perak Overview

The origins of the name Perak are not clear, and there are a few different versions of how this part of the country got its name. 'Perak' in Malay means 'silver' and some say that is was the silver-like glimmer of the fish in the water in Perak that gave it the name. Others say the name originated from Bendahara Tun Perak of Malacca. Whichever theory is true, most people would agree that as one of Malaysia's treasures, it is aptly named. more...

Perak Activities

This vast cave is the biggest natural limestone cave in the country, thought to date to 8,000 BC. The cave has five large domes and spans nearly one mile (1.5kms). Each of the domes has its own unique features, with different water levels and temperatures and a host of stalagmites and stalactites. The cave is located just over 12 miles (20kms) from Ipoh and is well worth a visit. more...

Perak Events and Festivals

Chinese New Year: the Chinese New Year brings plenty of joy and revelry to Perak, with friends and loved ones giving each other little red packets called angpows. Traditionally, the packages contained money to signify prosperity. Celebrations include lots of eating and dancing to ward of evil spirits. New Year’s Eve is a time for family get-togethers. more...

Perak Sightseeing

The quaint fishing village of Lumut is located 52 miles (84kms) from Ipoh and is common as a stopover for people on the way from the mainland to Pulau Pangkor. It's a pleasant place and is particularly known for its intricate coral and shell handicrafts, which are good gifts for friends back home. Every year in August there is a Sea Festival (Pesta Laut), which attracts lots of visitors. The festival is great fun for all the family, with various competitions and entertainments taking place. more...

Perak Transport

Most visitors to Perak access the state via Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Kuala Lumpur International Airport, located in Sepang district, is one of the busiest in Asia handling some 35 million passengers a year. It's a modern airport, having only opened in 1998, and has all the facilities you would expect of a major international airport. There are a good range of eating options as well as lounges, excellent transportation and even an animal hotel. more...

Perak Travel Tips

The official currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian ringgit (RM). One ringgit has a value of 100 sen. Banknotes are available in denominations of RM1, 2, 5, 10, 50 and 100. Coins are issued in denominations of RM1 and 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 sen. more...