Reviews & Press : : Kinta Valley

Malaysian Culture Group
http://www.malaysianculturegroup.com/oldnewsl/nfeb06.htm
MCG Newsletter - February 2006
by Joanna Adamson

Library Report

The library now holds "Kinta Valley: Pioneering Malaysia's Modern Development" by Kho Samla Nasution and Abdur-Razzaq Lubis. The Kinta valley (near Ipoh) was recently made famous in Tash Aw's novel, "The Harmony Silk Factory" which the library also holds.
The book's foreword describes it as "a highly readable account of the evolution of Kinta's tin mining industry, the social and economic development of the valley and the establishment and growth of Ipoh and nearby towns". This includes information on matters as diverse as local Chinese associations and temples, the local orang asli communities, and the impact of the Japanese occupation.

It also discusses the striking limestone massifs surrounding the valley, and their flora and fauna. It is well illustrated with maps and photographs (historical and contemporary).

In all, an excellent book to read from cover to cover, or to dip into before your next trip to Ipoh for a bowl of Hor Fun. See you at the library.