Inaugural Tin Mining Festival 2015

For the first time, Perakians from every walk of life had the opportunity to revisit the heyday of the tin mining industry in Kinta Valley during the inaugural Tin Mining Festival 2015 held at the Kinta Tin Mining (Gravel Pump) Museum, Bandar Baru Kampar on 25 October 2015.

A joint effort by UTAR Centre for Chinese Studies Research (CCSR) Chinese Malaysian and Cultural Studies Unit, the Perak Chinese Mining Association and the Kampar Tin Mining (Gravel Pump) Museum, the Tin Mining Festival 2015’s objectives were to enhance the younger generation’s knowledge of the country’s rich tin mining history as well as to commemorate the contribution of forerunners of the early tin mining industry.

Invited to officiate the event was Second Minister of International Trade and Industry, Dato’ Seri Ong Ka Chuan. Also present at the event were Perak Chinese Mining Association Advisor Tan Sri Hew See Tong, Perak Chinese Mining Association President Dato’ Chin Lean Choong, All-Malaya Chinese Mining Association Choong Tien Chuan, UTAR Council Member Hew Fen Yee, Dean of UTAR Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS) Assoc Prof Dr Chong Siou Wei, Chairperson of UTAR CCSR-cum-Organising Chairperson Assoc Prof Dr Wong Wun Bin.

“Tin mining industry was taxed heavily by the government when tin price was at its prime and the industry played a pivotal role to the nation’s economic growth, especially in shaping the country’s modernisation process. Unfortunately, the collapse of the International Tin Agreement on 24 October 1985 subsequently spelled the end of local tin mining industry,” explained Dr Wong during his welcoming remark. “However, the immense contribution by the tin mining industry and its forerunners shall forever be venerated and has thus inspired 24 October as a Tin Mining Day, and the festival on the following day.”

Speaking on behalf of the All-Malaya Chinese Mining Association, Choong gave the public an overview of the Kinta Valley’s tin mining history which touched on the mass immigration of the Chinese labourers through the notorious “pigling trade” system, the Larut War, the Pangkor Treaty in 1874 and the end of the industry. “An idea gradually mooted that an important piece of history, properly researched, documented and narrated, is sorely missing. Hence, we have invited some prominent scholars and researchers of UTAR to carry out this important task, so that these magnificent achievements and contribution by the pioneering miners will be forever remembered,” he concluded.

During his speech, Dato’ Seri Ong tributed the pioneer tin miners for their struggle and toil in the industry which contributed to the nation’s economic growth and development. He also lauded UTAR CCSR’s effort in working closely with the associations to rekindle people’s memories of the tin mining industry and its importance. “24 October deserves to be recognised on a national level as a day to commemorate the heyday of tin mining industry and the forerunners’ contribution,” he remarked.

Another highlight of Tin Mining Festival 2015 was the launch of Tan Sri Hew’s book titled “The Glittering History of Gravel Pump Mining Industry” (《锡日辉煌砂泵采矿工业的历程终结》), which was also proofread by UTAR CCSR.

According to Tan Sri Hew, the book illustrates the history of the tin mining industry with focus on the Kinta Valley. “Through this book, may the younger generation, as well as generations to come be aware of the fact that the tin mining industry had built a solid foundation for the nation’s economy. Let them forget not about the toil, sweat and tears of this history,” he mentioned.

To allow visitors to have a better overview of Kinta Valley’s rich tin mining heritage, Tin Mining Festival 2015 prepared a line-up of tin mining-themed activities including guided tours, games, demonstrations such as dulang washing, poetry recitation and song singing sessions.

Tin Mining Festival 2015 drew its curtains with Perak State Executive Council Member Dato’ Dr Mah Hang Soon being invited for the closing ceremony.

Besides thanking Dato’ Dr Mah for his attendance, Dato’ Chin also thanked UTAR CCSR for assisting in recording the history of the tin mining industry. “It is important that a full account of the history of tin mining is accurately recorded, so people will learn about its impact on our country’s economic and social development.”

Dato’ Dr Mah noted that the Tin Mining Festival 2015 is one of the activities under UTAR CCSR’s research project for Perak Chinese Tin Mining Industry (19th to 20th century) launched in early March this year. “Thank you UTAR CCSR for such a well-done effort in letting more people to understand deeper about the past, further allowing them to appreciate the forerunners’ efforts and also the future even more.”

(Clockwise from top left) Dr Wong, Choong and Dato’ Seri Ong delivering their speeches during the opening ceremony

Tan Sri Hew sharing the process of writing his book

(Clockwise from front left) Choong, Tan Sri Hew, Dato’ Chin, Dr Chong, Dato’ Seri Ong and Dr Wong displaying Tan Sri Hew’s book

A former dulang washer showing visitors how dulang washing is done

Volunteers (in white t-shirt) explaining to visitors about some exhibits

Visitors touring the museum

Dr Chong (left) presenting a token of appreciation to Dato’ Dr Mah at the closing ceremony