BATU GAJAH, Feb 1 (Bernama) -- The installation of a signboard at Rumah Besar Raja Bilah near the small town of Papan offers a convenient guide for both tourists and locals to explore the rich history of this iconic heritage site.
President of Perak Heritage Society (PHS) Mohd Tajuddin Mohd Tahir said that the installation of the signboard was made possible with the cooperation of the Batu Gajah District Council (MDBG), Kinta Valley Geopark, Areca Book, the Malayan Historical Group Association (MHG), and the descendants of Raja Bilah.
“The signboard serves as a valuable resource for foreign visitors and locals, offering a brief overview of the house’s historical background that they can share with others after their visit.
“It’s also a great way to get more people interested in making the small town of Papan a key tourist spot in Perak and Malaysia,” he told a press conference after the brief signboard installation ceremony today.
Also present at the event were the fourth-generation descendant of Raja Bilah, Ameen Abdullah, 77, and members of his extended family up to the sixth generation.
Mohd Tajuddin said that Rumah Besar Raja Bilah, built in 1896, was a heritage icon and the main attraction in Papan, a town that once symbolised the glory days of tin mining in the late 19th century.
“PHS hopes that Rumah Besar Raja Bilah will not be forgotten, as it was once the main Mandailing Malay heritage village in Perak and is nearly 145 years old.
“This house stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of the multi-racial community, including Mandailing Malays, Chinese, Indians, and Europeans in Papan, which was under the leadership of Raja Bilah and his son Raja Yacob at the time,” he said.
Meanwhile, fifth-generation descendant of Raja Bilah Aziah Abdullah, 47, expressed her hope that the historic house would be preserved for future generations.
“As the key holder, I come here whenever I have some free time to check on the area.
“We’re worried about theft and any superstitious practices that go against our faith, so we have to keep checking to make sure it doesn’t happen in or around the house,” she said.
Aziah said that the house was currently closed to the public due to a major roof leak, which could pose safety risks to visitors.
-- BERNAMA
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