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WANDER
TanHeeHui
and his friends escape the
heatwith a trip to Fraser’s Hill, where the
cool weather entices diverse visitors to
enjoy the outdoors.The thick fog adds
more charmto this getaway, built in the
early 20
th
Century after themysterious
disappearance of Scottish explorer and
trader
Louis James Fraser
.
W o r d s :
T a n H e e H u i
Hilltop Nostalgia
L
ouis
James Fraser was involved in tin mining
and traditional mule train activities in Pahang,
before he mysteriously disappeared in the
terrain’s thick jungles. This prompted Bishop
CJ Ferguson-Davie and Reverend AB Champion
to look for him, but to no avail. During the
course of the search, the Englishmen founded
the hill resort, dubbed “Little England”, exclusively for British
expatriates. The resort was later opened to the public in 1922.
Gentle climate
To escape Kuala Lumpur’s enervating humidity, we take a new
one-way link road to reach the hilltop, and descend via the
narrow and winding ‘Old Gap’ road. Rising 1,524 metres above
sea level, Fraser’s Hill’s beautiful highland flowers, pine trees
and rustic colonial bungalows evoke a genteel vibe. The gentle
climate – at an average 20°C throughout the year – is conducive
for diverse wildlife and plants such as bamboo orchids and
pitcher plants. Over 250 local and migratory birds, from as far
as Europe and North Asia, are easily spotted too, attracting
bird-watchers from around the world.
Mock Tudor-style buildings in granite colour are aplenty in
the small hilltop town and its centrepiece is an old English-style
clock tower. You can partake in many activities held at a
market square, surrounded by historical landmarks such as
the post office built in 1923 and the police station and medical
dispensary, both opened in 1919. Medical attendants at the
dispensary only perform first aid. Those with more complex
conditions, or in need of emergency treatment, are referred
to Raub or Kuala Kubu District Hospitals, located 20km from
Fraser’s Hill.
Traditional English style
For stylish accommodation, check into Ye Olde Smokehouse,
resplendent in traditional English countryside-style architec-
ture. Funded by the British Red Cross Society and the Order
of St John of Jerusalem in England, the edifice was built in
1924 as a “gift” to old Malaya, in tribute to its occupants,
including former members of the British imperial forces and
their dependants.
It was also to “commemorate the unexampled co-operation
between the empire overseas and the United Kingdom during
the first world war from 1914 to 1918”, as highlighted on a
signboard at the hotel’s reception area. In 1937, the premises
were transformed into a hotel, with rooms tastefully appointed
with four poster beds and English-style furniture, as well as
antiques and a restaurant for fine dining.
You must try the afternoon tea of freshly-baked scones
served with homemade strawberry jam and a pot of aromatic
tea, along with other delicious pastries and sandwiches.
Nature walks along eight different trails, at various parts of
The centre part of Ye
Olde Smokehouse
at Fraser’s Hill
Afternoon tea at Ye Olde Smokehouse