By Zaki Salleh
IPOH: The iconic historical and tourism building of Perak, Ipoh KTM Station, often portrayed as a beautiful historical landmark, now presents a different image.
The poor condition of this heritage building, which is over 100 years old, has long been a topic of conversation among the people of Ipoh city who want it to be saved.
In fact, the issue of maintaining the Ipoh KTM Station has been raised many times by local media, highlighted due to the demands of the Ipoh community.
The poor appearance of the Ipoh KTM Station is no secret; anyone can see it.
A recent survey by Ipoh Echo/Peraktastic of the exterior of the station revealed the same conditions observed two years ago.
Open window panes, dirty walls, and disorganized plastic barriers were evident.
On the sheltered side, overgrown bushes, a bucket collecting rainwater, and even large monitor lizards were seen sneaking inside.
Apart from the ticket counter and the passenger waiting area, which are operational, other parts of the railway station are in a sad state, seemingly lacking value despite being referred to as the ‘Taj Mahal of Ipoh”.
Previously, Railway Asset Corporation (RAC) was said to be planning repairs and upgrades to the station’s facilities.
This was confirmed by Ipoh Mayor, Datuk Rumaizi Baharin, who mentioned that the upgrading works would begin at the end of this year in collaboration with the Ipoh City Council (MBI).
The long-abandoned and dilapidated Majestic Hotel nearby is also included in the renovation plans.
The overall budget for the project is managed by the RAC, and the Majestic Hotel is expected to be turned into a hotel for tourists visiting Ipoh.
“Even though the project has not yet started, the relevant parties should be aware of the status of this historic station,” said Amar Nazran, a college student from Kuala Lumpur.
He pointed out that the condition of the Ipoh KTM Station is similar to that of other historical buildings in the country, which are neglected.
Nik Nur Fatihah Ismail, a private-sector worker, expressed that the physical condition of the Ipoh KTM Station is very disappointing, especially since it is an iconic heritage building.
She could not understand why the relevant parties, particularly the building’s owners, do not recognize their responsibility to maintain the building, instead of letting it fall into such disrepair.
