By Zaki Salleh
IPOH: Muzium Darul Ridzuan, which had been closed since March for upgrades and maintenance, has reopened to visitors.
It started accepting visitors again on September 2, and entry is free from 10 AM to 5 PM.
With a new look and the theme ‘Everything Here: A New Beginning,’ the museum showcases the development of Ipoh from the past to the present.
The exhibition spaces on the lower and upper floors are divided into segments based on different eras of Ipoh’s progress.
Although the reopening of the Darul Ridzuan Museum comes with just three months left before the end of the Perak Visit Year 2024, it’s not an issue.
At least there is a place for outside visitors to come when inquiring about museums in Ipoh.
However, Ipoh Echo / Peraktastic would like to offer a perspective, Muzium Darul Ridzuan exhibits are lacking or still have many shortcomings.
This is not meant as a negative comment but is based on experiences visiting other museums in different states.
From the lower level to the upper floors, the historical images on display lack descriptions, causing visitors to guess their significance.
For example, a large bell or ‘genta,’ which is historically related to the name Ipoh, is displayed without any explanation.
On the upper floor, which features a food paradise theme, there are no images of the specific locations being showcased.
The museum’s extensive collection of images makes it feel more like a photo gallery than a museum.
Museums should ideally present a mix of artifacts, objects, and historical materials with elements for preservation and study.
Additionally, the museum’s spacious grounds are not fully utilized, missing the opportunity to display suitable exhibits.
Even the historic World War II air raid shelter, rich in history, is not featured as an exhibit.
These are our observations, but Ipoh residents should visit to see and experience the new Darul Ridzuan Museum for themselves.
