Some 22 volunteers from the Department of Museums, Malaysia and their family members visited Han Chin Pet Soo and Ho Yan Hor Museums located in Ipoh’s Old Town, next to Kinta River recently.
The purpose of the trip was to visit Malaysia’s first Hakka tin mining museum, Han Chin Pet Soo managed by Ipoh World Sdn Bhd and Ho Yan Hor Museum which showcases the amazing stories of the founder and the evolution of his herbal tea.
The volunteers belong to a non-profit, non-political and non-religious group known as Museum Volunteers Malaysia. It was officially launched on April 19, 2007 at the National Museum, Kuala Lumpur by the late Director-General of the Department of Museums Malaysia, Dato’ Dr Adi Haji Taha.
The group consisted of both local and foreign volunteers. They provide free guided tours of the National Museum from Mondays to Saturdays. The medium of communication is English, French and Japanese.
According to Elizabeth Khoo, the organiser, their objective is to promote public awareness, appreciation of museums and understanding of the historical cultures of Malaysia.
“These two museums are gems. I’d certainly recommend them to those who’re interested in knowing about our tin-mining heritage and the origin of Ipoh’s famous herbal tea,” said Elizabeth to Ipoh Echo.
Nantini
