From Tin Mines to a Thriving University Town
Kampar District, located in southern Perak, is one of the state’s youngest and fastest-growing districts. Known historically for its tin mining heritage, Kampar has reinvented itself as a vibrant education and tourism hub, centered around the lively student town of Taman Bandar Baru Kampar.
Formation and Historical Background
- Formed: Declared as a separate district in 2009, carved out from Batang Padang District
- Kampar Town was once a booming tin mining town during the British colonial era
- The collapse of the tin industry led to population decline, but the establishment of UTAR (Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman) revived the town
- Today, Kampar blends colonial charm, Chinese culture, and student life
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Kampar District |
| State | Perak |
| District Capital | Kampar |
| Area | Approx. 665 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 130,000 |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Kampar (MDKpr) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim / Towns)
- Kampar Town – District capital and historical center
- Taman Bandar Baru Kampar – Education and commercial zone
- Malim Nawar – Semi-rural town with old mining sites
- Mambang Diawan – Traditional villages and light industry
- Temoh & Kuala Dipang – Small towns near rivers and reserves
Government and Notable Figures
| Position / Role | Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| District Officer (DO) | Tuan Haji Norazizi bin Zakaria | District administrative head |
| President of Kampar District Council | Encik Nizam bin Mohamad | Oversees development & local planning |
| Member of Parliament (MP – Kampar) | YB Chong Zhemin | Young leader with tech & edu agenda |
| State Assemblymen (ADUN – Keranji, Malim Nawar) | Represent district zones | |
| Education Promoter | Dr. Lee Shiau Kee | Lecturer and education community builder |
Key Towns and Areas
- Kampar Old Town – Colonial shophouses, eateries, museums
- Taman Bandar Baru Kampar – Modern township, student housing
- Malim Nawar – Industrial and semi-rural zone
- Kampung Batu Berangkai – Waterfalls and nature trails
- Gua Tempurung (nearby) – Limestone cave adventure site
Economy & Livelihood
- Education sector:
- Driven by UTAR, TARUC, and international students
- Retail & F&B:
- Cafes, tuition centers, night markets, stationery & hostel services
- Tourism:
- Heritage sites, lakes (ex-mining ponds), waterfalls, eco-parks
- Light industry & agro:
- Traditional foods, handicrafts, fish farming in lakes
Education & Institutions
- Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR Kampar) – Main catalyst of growth
- Tunku Abdul Rahman University College (TARUC)
- Government and Chinese schools
- Tuition centers and language academies
Healthcare Facilities
- Kampar Hospital – Public medical services
- UTAR-run clinics and health awareness programs
- Private clinics and student medical facilities
Transport & Connectivity
- Accessible via Federal Route 1
- Near the North–South Expressway (PLUS) (Tapah or Gopeng exit)
- Local buses, student shuttle services, e-hailing options
- Close to Ipoh (40 mins) and Tapah
Tourism & Attractions
- Kampar Old Town Trail – Heritage cafés, British architecture
- Gua Tempurung – Largest limestone cave system in Peninsular Malaysia
- Batu Berangkai Waterfall – Nature hike and picnic spot
- Westlake – Lakeside views, jogs, and photography
- Kampar Tin Mining Museum – Local history and mining tools
- Chinese temples and prayer halls – Colorful and active
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Strong Chinese (Cantonese, Hakka) influence, along with Malay and Indian traditions
- Local delights:
- Kampar Curry Chicken Bun, Chee Cheong Fun, Herbal Chicken, Kuih Kapit, Loh Mee
- Celebrations:
- Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, Thaipusam, Hari Raya
Summary
Kampar District is a story of reinvention and resilience—from a sleepy mining town to a buzzing university city, now home to a diverse population of students, locals, and entrepreneurs. With its natural beauty, affordable living, and educational excellence, Kampar stands tall as one of Perak’s brightest modern gems.