THE DEVELOPMENT OF A MALAY CULTURAL HERITAGE CENTER: KAMPUNG KUCHAI, IPOH, PERAK

Abstract

In Ipoh, Perak, there is a place called Kampung Kuchai. It was a dense settlement with the Malay community at one time. The presence of this area reveals that the Malays have lived in Ipoh for a long time. The question is why the Kampung Kuchai area is not developed like other areas. This study was conducted to raise the potential of Kampung Kuchai as a Malay cultural heritage centre. The study aims to improve the identity of the Malay community and demand the importance of preserving the nation's culture. The researchers have chosen Kampung Kuchai as a case study by conducting site observations and interviewing several respondents who know the area. The strength of this area is not only in the development based on the nation's culture but also in implementing the development of goodwill by highlighting the diversity of building architecture, culture, and local way of life. The researchers found that this area has excellent potential to be developed as a Malay Heritage Center because of its strategic location. It has sufficient resources for developing traditional villages and local historical storytelling, a new tourism product in the Ipoh City Council area.