By Anne Das
The roar of engines and the gleam of polished chrome filled the Royal Ipoh Club last Sunday, as the Perak Classic Drivers (PCD) celebrated Merdeka with their biggest showcase yet. More than 60 vintage and classic vehicles, along with big bikes, rolled in to turn the club grounds into a living gallery of motoring history.
For cofounders Mr. KT Pillai and Dr. Haridev, it was a proud moment. What began seven years ago as a small circle of enthusiasts has grown into a vibrant community of over 160 members. Today, PCD is recognised as one of the most active motoring clubs in Perak, known for its convoys, monthly meet-ups and strong sense of brotherhood.
“When we first started, it was simply about our shared passion for classics,” said KT Pillai. “Today, it has become something bigger. We are encouraging more people, especially the younger generation, to join us. Every car is a story on wheels, and when we restore them, we preserve pieces of history.”
Note: The cars on display here are only classics (25 years-49.99 years)
The line-up included Austins, BMWs, Mercedes-Benzes, Fiats, Porsches, Volkswagens, Toyotas, Hondas and Alfa Romeos. Alongside them were British favourites like MGs, Triumphs and Morris Minors, as well as rarer continental entries including Peugeots. Many of the cars were true head turners and carry decades of craftsmanship from an era when engineering was as much art as science.
Bikers from Kuala Lumpur added a different roar to the morning. They arrived on high-powered machines including BMWs, a Yamaha FJR1300, a Kawasaki 900 and a Royal Enfield.
The riders are members of the PMKSDR Biker Brothers, a group that has travelled widely across Malaysia and even into Thailand, with PCD cofounder KT Pillai among their ranks. Their presence brought an added spirit of camaraderie to the gathering, bridging two worlds of motoring passion.
The programme featured speeches, a lively quiz, lucky draws and souvenir presentations. In a playful touch, all PCD members sported new “Classic Cowboy Hats,” giving the gathering its own rugged character and plenty of memorable moments. Families and friends wandered between rows of vintage and classic vehicles, trading stories and taking photos. Despite the blazing sun, the mood stayed upbeat.
The Royal Ipoh Club once again proved to be a fitting setting. Its heritage-rich architecture and central location made it an elegant backdrop for the gathering. Its President, Mr. JP Harikrishnan, summed it up. “The Royal Ipoh Club is no stranger to heritage. With its own history dating back over a century, it is the perfect setting for gatherings that celebrate tradition and community spirit. We are proud to support the Perak Classic Drivers every year.”
Platinum sponsor X-1R Asia kept the crowd buzzing. Each classic car owner received complimentary fuel booster and engine treatment samples. The real surprise came when X-1R announced two grand prizes, a 65” Hisense UHD TV and a brand-new iPhone. The hall erupted with cheers and applause as winners walked away with more than just memories.
As a prelude to Merdeka, the gathering celebrated more than motoring pride. It brought together heritage, community spirit and the timeless passion for classic machines.
As the engines cooled and the crowd slowly dispersed, the spirit of the day could be summed up best by Enzo Ferrari’s famous words:-“You cannot describe passion; you can only live it.”
