IN the quiet town of Gerik, a group of artists has “taken it to the streets” to raise awareness about the endangered Malayan tiger, with only about 150 of these majestic creatures remaining in the wilderness of Perak’s forests.
Led by Syal Sepehee, the artists have anchored their work on the Malayan tiger, aiming to inspire through their vibrant murals.
“We wanted to use our art to raise awareness about the plight of this magnificent species,” says Syal, who is from Selangor.
Her team was commissioned by the Gerik district council as part of the Visit Perak Year initiative.
Visitors to the town, located about 120km north of Ipoh, are greeted by a striking artwork stretching across a couple of streets, featuring what Syal proudly describes as Malaysia’s first “tiger crossing.”
In Gerik, Malaysia’s first ‘tiger crossing’ hopes to make more people aware of the country’s endangered Malayan tigers. — Photos: KAMARUL ARIFFIN/The Star
This mural has quickly become the main attraction in the small town, she says.
Syal’s journey began in early 2021 when she ventured out of her comfort zone to form a team known as “Dak Site,” a nod to the diverse educational backgrounds of her members.
“Everyone comes from different fields,” she says, adding that the team has a unique blend of skills, including in mechanical engineering, business, and architecture.
She says the murals reflect the rich tapestry of local culture and celebrate the rich biodiversity of the northern state of Perak.
Inspired by the wildlife of Perak, artists took their creativity to the walls of Gerik’s alleys and streets.
“The murals have become a tourist attraction and have helped in boosting local economic activities,” claims Syal.
The murals have certainly caught the attention of Gerik residents.
Neda Keshvar, 45, says the artworks have enlivened streets that were once “abandoned and dirty.”
“No one really walked through here, and now it’s completely different. It’s a lot more vibrant and colourful,” says the homemaker, who was on a stroll with her family.
She likes the idea of using the Malayan tiger to raise awareness about threatened wildlife.
“It’s something that you don’t see anywhere else. It’s really good, especially when the tigers are facing a crisis,” Neda adds, hoping it would echo a call to action to protect the Malayan tiger.
Alleys in Gerik are a beautiful, colourful surprise nowadays.
Local businesses have also felt the positive impact.
Shamsiah Shamsul Hak, an eatery owner, says the murals have helped her business thrive as more visitors come to explore the town.
“When people stay at the hotel, they see the murals and take pictures with them. I also benefit from it as my restaurant is located just next to the art,” she says, who has operated her eatery for about four years.
The younger generation is equally excited about the new art installation.
Schoolboy Muhammad Aisar Hadif Azlan, 12, hopes more people would visit Gerik, saying, “The town is more vibrant with these murals!”
His peers echo his excitement, appreciating the educational aspect of the murals which highlight the state’s rich biodiversity and history.
“I hope more people will come here and learn about our stories here in Gerik,” says Nur Huda Batrisyia Kamal Azahar, 13.
