Malaysian couple's 8-year journey restored a 116-year-old building back to its former glory

The facade of the Kapitan Chung Thye Phin building at Station Road in Ipoh. Photos: Arlene House

To put it simply, the state of dilapidation was palpable – peeling paint, mouldy patches and cracked masonry, with plants peeking out of parapets and exterior cornices.

It was no better inside, with rickety floorboards, damaged roof trusses, musty walls and stained floors.