Iconic Taiping Market to be recognised as national heritage, says minister

IPOH: The iconic Taiping Market, which is currently being renovated, will be recognised as a national heritage, says Nga Kor Ming (pic).

The Local Government Development Minister said the market, built in 1875, is the oldest market in the country and will be the first one to be accorded heritage status.

“It is the pride of Perak and works are expected to be fully completed next year.

“The market will be opened in conjunction with the 150th anniversary of Taiping as a heritage town,” he told reporters after visiting the Ipoh Central Market here on Saturday (Jan 14).

Work to renovate the Taiping Market reportedly started on Jan 21, 2021, at a cost of about RM9mil.

Nga said the market was given extra attention to maintain its unique features.

“It took some time to design the market. We cannot simply tear it down and rebuild,” he said.

“We need to find similar wood that was used back when it was first built,” he said, adding that the market will be a tourism product.

“For instance, cengal wood was used, so we will find the same wood to maintain its heritage value,” he added.

It will become a tourism product.

Nga also said the ministry will study all old markets for upgrading works, with priority to be given to premises that have history.

“There are some that have been burned down and not redeveloped.

“The ministry has plans, it will be on a case by case basis,” he said.

On the demolition of a two-storey bungalow in Jalan Clove Hall, Penang, Nga said he would look into the matter.

“I am planning to visit Penang after Chinese New Year.

“I will also visit the Bukit Mertajam Market, which was burnt down. I will go there to have a look and discuss with our officers,” he added.