By Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
Photo: Emily2u
IPOH: Nine Miss Perak Tourism 2026 finalists traded the glamour of the pageant stage for a heritage trail through the heart of Ipoh, exploring the city on foot, learning about its Hakka tin-mining history and sampling its culinary offerings.
The finalists began their Interaction Day at Timah Explorer, where they donned elegant sarong kebaya before undergoing make-up and hair styling.
They then headed to 22 Hale Street for a photo shoot, with Ipoh’s historic surroundings providing the backdrop.
The morning continued with the finalists walking through the streets of Ipoh to Han Chin Pet Soo, one of the programme’s sponsors.
Their walk also gave them the opportunity to interact with members of the public, with the contestants receiving smiles and waves from those they met along the way.
At Han Chin Pet Soo, the finalists were introduced to Ipoh’s Hakka heritage and the history of the Hakka Tin Miners Club, gaining an insight into the people and stories that shaped the city’s development.
They were hosted by Dato’ Hew Choy Kon, whose father, Hew Kiaw, was a prominent tin miner.
The heritage experience was followed by a culinary treat, with the finalists travelling by Perak Transit bus to Starry Night Restaurant for a specially curated fine-dining luncheon.
The programme is part of the finalists’ journey to discover Perak’s heritage, culture, hospitality and culinary attractions beyond the pageant itself.
From the nine finalists, only two will be selected to represent Perak at the national finals of the Miss Malaysia Tourism Pageant 2026.
The grand final is scheduled to take place in Ipoh on October 17, bringing together about 18 contestants from around Malaysia to compete for three coveted pageant titles.
The event is also expected to provide an opportunity to showcase Ipoh and Perak as a destination combining heritage, culture, food and tourism experiences.
