Opening Hours
- Monday to Sunday : 9.00 am to 5.00 pm
- Friday : 9.00 am to 12.30 pm, 2.30 to 5.00 pm
Ticket Price
- Free entrance
Telephone No.
- 04-733 1162
Travel Tips
- Photography is not allowed inside the museum.
Parking Tips
- Ample parking space available
Location
- Kedah State Museum, Jalan Bakar Bata, Lebuhraya Darul Aman, 05100 Alor Setar, Kedah.
About Kedah State Museum
The Kedah State Museum is a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and culture lovers. Located in Alor Setar, the capital city of Kedah, Malaysia, this museum offers a deep dive into the rich history and heritage of the state. With its impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits, the Kedah State Museum provides a comprehensive overview of the region’s past.
As you step into the museum, you will be transported back in time, exploring the various eras that have shaped Kedah’s identity. The Kedah State Museum presents a rich tapestry of history, showcasing everything from the legacies of ancient civilizations to the impacts of colonial rule. It stands as an essential destination for both locals and visitors in Kedah, providing a profound look at the area’s cultural heritage and historical traditions.
History of Kedah State Museum
The Kedah State Museum, also known as Muzium Negeri Kedah in Malay, was established in 1936 and is located in Alor Setar, the capital city of Kedah, Malaysia. It is the center of knowledge about the history of Kedah, showcasing the state’s rich heritage, culture, and lifestyle. With more than 1,500 years of civilization in the making, Kedah has a fascinating history that is beautifully presented in the museum.
The museum aims to preserve and promote the historical and cultural significance of Kedah, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the state’s past. The museum building itself is a historic structure situated on the banks of the Kedah River. It is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to explore the exhibits.
As a state museum, it houses a vast collection of Kedah’s historical, cultural, and royal artifacts. The collection includes early Chinese porcelain, traditional Malay weapons, ancient manuscripts, archaeological finds from the Bujang Valley civilization, and artifacts from the colonial era.
The Kedah State Museum is not only a repository of artifacts but also a place of learning and research. It provides valuable resources for scholars, historians, and students interested in delving into the history and heritage of Kedah. Over the years, the museum has undergone renovations and expansions to enhance its facilities and exhibition spaces. Today, it stands as a prominent institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history of Kedah.
Exhibits and Collections
Outside the museum, an impressive display of large ship replicas and historical vehicles, including the “Kereta Perisai” or armored car, showcases Kedah’s maritime and transportation history. These meticulously crafted models highlight the region’s pivotal role in trade routes and military operations. This outdoor exhibit enriches the museum’s offerings and visually connects visitors to Kedah’s rich seafaring and technological heritage.
Anotehr highlights of the museum is the State Art Gallery, which displays the state of Kedah’s heritage. Here, you can find exhibits on antique weapons, jewelry, furniture, and even early manuscripts. The gallery provides a fascinating insight into the artistic and cultural traditions of Kedah.
Another notable exhibit is the Royal Gallery, which showcases the royal heritage of Kedah. Visitors can admire the regal artifacts, including royal costumes, accessories, and ceremonial items. This gallery offers a glimpse into the grandeur and opulence of the Kedah royal family.
The museum also houses a collection of historical artifacts that depict the everyday life of the people of Kedah. The displays feature traditional attire, textiles, agricultural implements, and domestic items, offering a detailed perspective on the local customs and way of life.
Additionally, the Kedah State Museum features temporary exhibitions that highlight specific aspects of the state’s history or contemporary art scene. These rotating exhibits ensure that there is always something new and exciting to discover at the museum.
One particularly intriguing exhibit at the Kedah State Museum is the display of the “Golden Tree” or Bunga Emas. Historically, Kedah faced numerous invasions by Siam, and to maintain peace, the Sultan of Kedah would send a Bunga Emas to the Raja of Siam every three years. This tribute, symbolizing submission, took the form of a small tree crafted from gold, complete with leaves, branches, and a trunk, rather than an actual flower.
The expense involved in creating these ornate golden trees was significant. This tradition, and the consequences of failing to uphold it, as evidenced by the Siamese attack on Kedah when a tribute was missed, highlights the complex historical relationships between these regions. Both the golden and silver trees are displayed in the museum, offering visitors a unique glimpse into this rich aspect of Kedah’s royal diplomacy.
Visiting Information
The Kedah State Museum is located in Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia. The address is Jalan Bakar Bata, Lebuhraya Darul Aman, 05100 Alor Setar, Kedah. The museum is open daily and admission is free for all visitors. This makes it a great place to visit for both locals and tourists.
The opening hours of the museum are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is recommended to allocate at least a couple of hours to explore the museum and its exhibits.
To get to the Kedah State Museum, visitors can take a taxi or drive their own vehicle. There is ample parking available near the museum. For those who prefer public transportation, there are also buses that stop near the museum. It is advisable to check the bus schedules in advance. The museum is wheelchair accessible, making it convenient for visitors with mobility issues. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the museum.
There are also restroom facilities available within the museum premises for visitors’ convenience. Photography is not allowed in most areas of the museum, but it is recommended to check with the staff before taking any photographs.
How to Get There
The Kedah State Museum is located in Alor Setar, the capital city of Kedah state in Malaysia. If you are coming from Kuala Lumpur, you can take the North-South Expressway and drive for approximately 4 hours to reach Alor Setar. From Penang, it takes about 1 hour and 13 minutes to drive to the museum, covering a distance of approximately 107 kilometers via the North-South Highway.
If you prefer public transportation, there are buses and trains available to Alor Setar. You can take a bus from Kuala Lumpur or Penang to Alor Setar Bus Terminal. From there, you can either take a taxi or use the city’s efficient public transportation system to reach the museum.
Visitor Reviews
Visiting the Kedah State Museum is a truly enriching experience, as evident from the positive reviews left by visitors. Many guests have praised the museum for its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich history and culture of Kedah.
One visitor commented on the impressive range of artifacts on display, including manuscripts, textiles, and other historical items. They were particularly fascinated by the exhibits that highlighted the Bujang Valley civilization and the colonial era.
Another reviewer mentioned that the museum provides a comprehensive overview of Kedah’s history, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and students. They appreciated the detailed information provided alongside the exhibits, which helped them gain a deeper understanding of the region’s past.
Visitors also commended the museum’s efforts to preserve and showcase Kedah’s cultural heritage. The well-maintained displays and informative signage made it easy for them to navigate through the museum and learn about the different periods in Kedah’s history.
While the majority of reviews were positive, some visitors noted that the museum, particularly the ground floor with its older exhibits and dim lighting, could benefit from additional interactive exhibits or multimedia presentations to enhance the visitor experience. They suggested that incorporating modern technology, especially on the upper floor which features newer exhibitions in a well-lit environment, could make the museum more engaging and appealing to a broader audience.
More Reviews of Kedah State Museum
Check out more reviews and photos of Kedah State Museum from TripAdvisor here:
Conclusion
Kedah State Museum is a must-visit destination in Malaysia for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in learning about the rich cultural heritage of Kedah. With its fascinating exhibits and extensive collections, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of the state’s history, from ancient times to the present day. Hence, a visit to this museum is a journey through time and a chance to appreciate the vibrant history of Kedah. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s go and explore to this amazing historical attraction!
