Photo: Map of Perak

Perak, the Land of Grace, covers an area of 21,000 squares kilometres and has a population of about two million.

The state is divided into nine districts and its major towns include Ipoh, Kuala Kangsar, Taiping, Teluk Intan and Lumut.

Kuala Kangsar is the royal town of Perak, while Ipoh is the administrative centre and state capital.

For centuries, Perak was renowned for its rich tin deposits. It is believed that the state derived its name, which means silver in Malay, from the silvery tin ore.

The discovery of tin by Long Jaafar brought about an influx of immigrants to Perak. It has developed into a harmonious multi-racial society characterised by a diversity in language, culture and heritage.

Perak has a proud track record making the best every circumstances. Despite the tin slump in 1983, it has succeeded in restructuring its economic development, resulting in continuous industrial growth. A sound infrastructure and facilities of international standard make it an ideal environment for business enterprise.

Originally an obscure kampung with dilapidated buildings, Ipoh, the town that tin built, has become one of the largest cities in Malaysia. Poised to become a focal point of industry, business, investment, education and social activities, Ipoh, the capital city reflects the overall progress and development that the state is experiencing.

There are many modern shopping centres and supermarkets in Perak especially in Ipoh and the major towns. Other places where you can pick up good bargains are at the pasar malam or night markets. These are street bazaars that stock everything from local handicrafts to folk medicine, from farm-fresh product to casual wear.

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Studies on the chemical constituents of Phyllanthus urinaria and its antiviral activity against hepatitis B virus were completed.