Southern Frontier of Perak — Education, Nature & Tranquil Progress
Muallim District, formed in January 2016, is Perak’s youngest and southernmost district. Strategically located along the North–South Expressway, it acts as a gateway between Selangor and Perak. The district is rooted in education, agriculture, and tranquil small-town life, offering scenic beauty and developmental potential.
Formation and Historical Background
- Established: 11 January 2016
- Formed from parts of Batang Padang District, notably around Slim River and Tanjung Malim
- The name “Muallim” is derived from the Arabic word for “teacher”, reflecting the area’s historic connection to education
- Home to Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI)—Malaysia’s national education university, with roots dating back to 1922
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Muallim District |
| State | Perak |
| District Capital | Tanjung Malim |
| Other Key Town | Slim River |
| Area | Approx. 930 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 100,000 |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Tanjung Malim (MDTM) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim / Towns)
- Tanjung Malim – District capital, university town
- Slim River – Historical and transport town
- Proton City – Industrial and residential development area
- Ulu Bernam, Behrang, Kalumpang – Suburbs and agricultural villages
- Bernam River – Natural border with Selangor
Government and Notable Figures
| Position / Role | Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| District Officer (DO) | Tuan Haji Mohd Syukri bin Mohd Nawawi | Oversees district management |
| President of Tanjung Malim District Council | Encik Mohd Fadhli bin Ahmad | Leads MDTM development planning |
| Member of Parliament (MP – Tanjong Malim) | YB Chang Lih Kang | Minister of Science, Technology & Innovation |
| State Assemblyman (ADUN – Slim) | YB Mohd Zaidi Aziz | Youth leader and rural development figure |
| Education Icon | Prof. Dato’ Dr. Md Amin Md Taff | Vice-Chancellor of UPSI |
Key Towns and Areas
- Tanjung Malim – UPSI campus, student facilities, modern township
- Slim River – Government clinics, shops, old railway station
- Proton City – Industrial zone with residential expansion
- Behrang & Kalumpang – Rural settlements with small industries
- Ulu Slim & Sungai Bil – Eco-tourism and waterfall destinations
Economy & Livelihood
- Education-based economy:
- UPSI, teacher training, bookshops, student housing
- Agriculture:
- Oil palm, rubber, fruit orchards, livestock
- Industry:
- Proton City’s auto and component industries
- Tourism:
- Waterfalls, eco-parks, recreational river retreats
Education & Institutions
- Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) – National Teacher Education University
- Teacher training colleges, MARA Junior Science Colleges (MRSM)
- Government schools and religious institutions
- Technical training centers and student hostels
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Slim River – Main public hospital in the district
- Klinik Kesihatan in Tanjung Malim, Behrang, Ulu Bernam
- UPSI health clinics and private healthcare providers
Transport & Connectivity
- Located directly along the North–South Expressway (PLUS)
- Tanjung Malim KTM Komuter Station – Direct rail to KL/Selangor
- Buses and e-hailing options for students and travelers
- Close to major highways to Ipoh, Rawang, Kuala Lumpur
Tourism & Attractions
- Sungai Bil Waterfall & Eco Park – Nature retreat near Slim River
- Proton City Lake – Recreation, jogging, fishing
- UPSI Museum & Education Gallery
- Behrang Forest & River Trails
- Historical mosques, old railway stations, night markets
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Mixed communities: Malay majority, with Chinese and Indian presence
- Food to try:
- Mee Kari Slim River, Ikan Bakar Sungai Bil, Nasi Lemuni, Cucur Udang, Roti Canai Tanjung Malim
- Cultural activities:
- UPSI convocation festivals, kampung kenduri, river picnics, teacher-themed events
Summary
Muallim District is Perak’s southern frontier of education, nature, and growth. With its rich teaching heritage, scenic retreats, and urban potential, Muallim is both a starting point for travelers and a center of knowledge for future leaders.