Family-Friendly Kampung Tour To Explore Malay Culture

It’s a rare treat to find an entire village (or kampung) house in the heart of the city. But thanks to Badan Warisan Malaysia (the National Heritage Society) – a leading NGO with a reputation for heritage conservation- you’ll find one. The Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman sits majestically on the grounds of the Heritage Centre that houses the Badan Warisan headquarters. You’ll see that the kampung house, one of the oldest surviving traditional Malay houses built between 1910 and the early 1930s, is a stark contrast to the neighboring steel skyscrapers. Originally located in the state of Kedah, north of the country, and belonging to a local headman, the kampung house was rescued, restored and relocated by Badan Warisan.

Take the tour, which is an educational first-hand experience for kids on the culture and traditional Malay way of life. During the tour, you’ll be taken through the different parts of the house – bilik tamu (living room), bilik tidur (bedrooms), bilik makan (dining room) and dapur (kitchen); each is described in elaborate detail, with plenty of attention paid to artefacts and traditional appliances around the home (their use and function). Observe, also, the beautifully carved wooden shutters and doors. Kids can try their hand at an ancient rice grinder or play the traditional game of congkak. Throughout the tour, your guide reveals some interesting, fun facts about the local, Malay history, culture and way of life.