Larut, Matang, Selama
Location
Location: Northwestern Perak, near Taiping.
Historical Background: This district played a key role in Malaysia’s tin mining industry, with Taiping being the country’s first capital before Kuala Lumpur. Matang was a crucial trading hub, and Selama has a strong agricultural and rubber plantation heritage.
Attractions and Activities
Taiping Lake Gardens – Malaysia’s first public park, built on an old tin mining site.
Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill) – The oldest hill station in Malaysia, offering cool weather and breathtaking views.
Matang Mangrove Forest – A well-preserved mangrove ecosystem, great for boat tours and eco-tourism.
Antong Coffee Mill – The oldest coffee mill in Malaysia, still producing traditional roasted coffee.
Selama Hot Springs – A natural hot spring retreat surrounded by rainforest.
Local Culture and Cuisine
Char Kway Teow Taiping – A unique version of Penang’s famous stir-fried noodles.
Mee Udang Matang – A spicy prawn noodle dish, using fresh seafood.
Taiping Popiah – A crispy and fresh spring roll snack, influenced by Chinese immigrants.