By Zaki Salleh
BATU GAJAH: The presence of visitors dressed in old-fashioned attire reminiscent of the 1900s evoked the vintage charm of Papan Town, as if turning back time to its heyday.
Most attendees wore traditional clothing representing their respective ethnic backgrounds.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere was a lineup of classic cars of various makes, including those that once cruised the roads during the colonial era.
Also featured were rows of vintage bicycles that were once the main mode of transportation for the people.
This was the lively scene at the Nostalgia Carnival of Old Papan Town, held over two days starting today.
The program was organized in collaboration with various parties, including the Batu Gajah District Council, Papan Heritage Group, the local community, and the Perak Heritage Association.
As early as 8 a.m., visitors and organizers were already on site—not just attending, but also soaking in the nostalgic views of a town that once made a name for itself.
The Nostalgia Carnival was held in conjunction with Malaysia Day, celebrated in a spirit of patriotism.
When met at the event, Perak Heritage Association Secretary, Nor Hisham Zulkiflee, stated that this annual program should be continued as it has become one of the region’s tourism products.
He noted that Old Papan Town is known for its historical remnants, including rows of old shop houses, which serve as key attractions.
“Papan itself holds invaluable historical significance, as it was the oldest tin mining town in the Kinta Valley,” he said.
The history of Papan Town revolves around the golden age of tin mining in the Kinta Valley during the 19th and 20th centuries.
It was once a bustling hub for both Malay and Chinese miners, developing rapidly into a thriving town before declining due to the collapse of the tin industry and a major fire in 1911.
Today, Papan retains its original charm and is being developed into a historical tourism destination to revive the nostalgia of its mining era.
