Southern Gateway of Perak — Nature, Agriculture, and Cross-State Connectivity
Batang Padang District, located in the southern part of Perak, serves as a crucial entry point from Selangor, and is centered around Tapah town. The district combines eco-tourism, agriculture, indigenous culture, and transit accessibility, making it a unique blend of nature and economy.
Formation and Historical Background
- Established: Named after the Batang Padang River, the district was developed during colonial times as a transport and plantation hub
- Tapah grew as a key rest stop on the way to Cameron Highlands, linked by the old federal route
- The district also includes Orang Asli (indigenous) villages, forest reserves, and rubber plantations dating back to the early 20th century
- A portion of the district was carved out in 2016 to create the new Muallim District
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Batang Padang District |
| State | Perak |
| District Capital | Tapah |
| Area | Approx. 1,873 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 160,000 |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Tapah (MDT) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim / Towns)
- Tapah – Administrative capital and transport hub
- Bidor – Commercial center, fruit hub
- Tapah Road – Historical rail town
- Chenderiang – Rural area with waterfalls and forests
- Sungkai – Known for hot springs and FELDA settlements
- Temoh, Kampung Batu 3, Kampung Gajah Hilir – Agricultural zones
Government and Notable Figures
| Position / Role | Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| District Officer (DO) | Tuan Haji Khairul Amir bin Mohamad Zubir | District-level land and development affairs |
| President of Tapah District Council | Encik Mohd Nazri bin Abdul Rahman | Oversees local governance (MDT) |
| Member of Parliament (MP – Tapah) | YB Datuk Seri M. Saravanan | Former Minister of Human Resources |
| State Assemblymen (ADUN – Chenderiang, Ayer Kuning) | Represent diverse townships | |
| Tourism Advocate | En. Halim Mahmud | Community eco-tourism promoter |
Key Towns and Areas
- Tapah Town – Bus terminal, government offices, markets
- Bidor – Famous for fruits (especially guava), traditional shops
- Sungkai – Hot springs, FELDA plantations
- Chenderiang – Gateway to Lata Kinjang Waterfall
- Tapah Road – Rail history and strategic junction
Economy & Livelihood
- Agriculture:
- Rubber, oil palm, fruits (guava, durian, rambutan)
- Eco-tourism:
- Waterfalls, hot springs, river tracking
- Small businesses:
- Traditional kuih, handcrafts, local eateries
- Transport & Logistics:
- Access point to Cameron Highlands, Selangor border
Education & Institutions
- Primary and secondary schools across towns
- Vocational and agricultural colleges
- Islamic institutions and orang asli education centers
- Technical training linked to plantation & tourism skills
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Tapah – District’s main public hospital
- Klinik Kesihatan in Sungkai, Bidor, Chenderiang
- Indigenous community health support in rural areas
Transport & Connectivity
- Access via North–South Expressway (PLUS) (Tapah exit)
- Tapah Road Railway Station – ETS & Intercity routes
- Roads to Cameron Highlands, Teluk Intan, and Slim River
- Public transport includes buses, vans, and taxis
Tourism & Attractions
- Lata Kinjang Waterfall – One of Malaysia’s tallest waterfalls
- Sungkai Hot Springs (Felda Residence) – Resort and public baths
- Lata Iskandar – Jungle waterfall en route to Cameron Highlands
- Tapah Heritage Sites – Old train station, colonial-era townhouses
- Orang Asli Villages – Cultural experiences in eco-tours
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Mixed population: Malay majority, with Indian, Chinese, and Orang Asli
- Famous food:
- Mee Rebus Tapah, Bidor Duck Noodles, Nasi Lemuni, Traditional Tempoyak, Fresh Guava
- Traditions:
- Kenduri kampung, Orang Asli harvest festivals, Thaipusam in town temples
Summary
Batang Padang District is nature’s doorstep and culture’s corridor—a place where waterfalls roar, forests breathe, and communities thrive quietly along the highway of progress. Whether you’re heading north to the Highlands or resting in rustic Tapah, this district is a gentle reminder of Perak’s southern soul.