‘Balai gambang’ restoration part of Perak’s RM5.5mil tourism improvements in time for Visit Malaysia campaign
A PIECE of Perak’s heritage has returned to the water, ready to ferry visitors on a cruise fit for royalty.
The ceremonial boat – Balai Gambang Cempaka Sari – a cultural and historical landmark in Kuala Kangsar, has officially resumed operations following extensive restoration.
A Perbadanan Kemajuan Negeri Perak (PKNPk) spokesperson said the heritage asset “will breathe new life into river tourism, which is becoming increasingly popular among domestic and international visitors”.
Historically, the balai gambang has been a feature of Perak rulers’ ascension ceremonies.
Balai Gambang Cempaka Sari was commissioned in conjunction with Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah’s ascension as Perak’s 35th ruler in 2015.
It was passed on to the state government in 2017 for tourism, enabling visitors to experience drifting down Sungai Perak like royalty.
Operations stopped in 2023 as it succumbed to wear and tear.
The spokesperson said the boat was among several tourism products under PKNPk’s RM5.5mil development plan to enhance key attractions in Perak for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
“Another product is Casuarina Houseboat @Temenggor 1 currently undergoing restoration.
“It has been non-operational since July 2024 due to technical issues and needing critical engine and structural repairs.
“The iconic houseboat is expected to resume full operation by February 2026, in time to support the revitalisation of the Belum-Temenggor eco-tourism sector.”
Other projects in Ipoh include installation of smart solar streetlights at Sultan Azlan Shah roundabout, as well as preservation of traditional Malay houses and improving community infrastructure in Meru Raya.
“Through subsidiary Majuperak Holdings Bhd, PKNPk will also assume full management of Gua Tempurung (in Gopeng) in early 2026 as a key step in modernising assets.
“This will be followed by development of new facilities including glamping sites, an adventure hub and safety upgrades.”
PKNPk also projected monthly visitors to increase from 10,000 to 25,000 within the first year.
The spokesperson said these efforts were part of data-driven execution that would be implemented aggressively.
“The focus is to ensure state assets are not only restored but also developed into sustainable sources of economic growth, in line with the aspirations of the Perak Mentri Besar.
“The ongoing transformation underscores PKNPk’s commitment to supporting state leadership in establishing Perak as a must-visit destination ahead of VM2026 and beyond.”
