IPOH STUDY 

The craftmanship project is driven by a team of researchers from tourism and business marketing backgrounds. Dr. Teh Pek Yen, Dr. Teoh Chai Wen, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Derek Ong, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Daniel Chong lead this initiative, united by their belief in community-engaged research to safeguard Ipoh’s cultural heritage. Dr. Teh, a native of Ipoh, initiated the project due to concerns over the city's focus on gastronomical tourism at the expense of other cultural treasures facing extinction.
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Aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals, the project aims to document Ipoh’s traditional crafts and stories for future generations. It seeks to honor the craft masters who have preserved Ipoh’s heritage, presenting them as crucial custodians of local culture. The project’s core mission is to revive interest in Ipoh’s artisanal traditions, sparking renewed appreciation and pride. By documenting these crafts and their practitioners, it aims to foster a deeper connection to Malaysia’s cultural roots.
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Through thorough research and community involvement, the project strives not only to protect Ipoh’s cultural identity but also to inspire younger generations to continue these traditions. By highlighting the artisans and their skills, it hopes to promote a broader dialogue on the importance of heritage preservation in modern Malaysia. In essence, the project is a collaborative effort to ensure that all aspects of Ipoh’s heritage receive recognition, aiming for a sustainable future where heritage and progress can thrive together.