Batu Gajah: unveiling history's timeless charms

Rumah 1916, located in Batu Gajah, Perak, sees the AlBakri family heirs uniting to preserve its 100-year-old heritage. Their collective efforts aim to protect the historic home’s architectural integrity and cultural significance for future generations. Photo: Shireen Zainudin

If you’re coming from Ipoh, the Batu Gajah heritage driving trail follows Jalan Pusing onto Jalan Kelab before it curves around to head up Jalan Changkat. It is punctuated by landmark heritage buildings with the overlapping narratives of the town’s diverse communities.

I’m in a car with my guide Sundralingam and my friend Datuk Zahim Albakri, eager to visit both the Sri Subramaniyar Swami Kovil Temple and Jalan Mustafar Al Bakri.