The Fallen Ipoh Tree Has Been Replanted
We are all aware that the city of Ipoh actually derives its name from a tree that produces poisonous sap, also known as 'upa'. The poisonous sap from the tree is said to have many uses and was widely used by the Orang Asli community for hunting animals.
The poisonous sap of the Ipoh tree would be coated onto the tips of blowpipes, intended for hunting as well as for defending themselves and their families. This poison acts immediately and kills the target struck by the blowpipe. To avoid food poisoning when used for hunting, the meat around the wound on the game animal would be cut away and discarded. Returning to the news we wish to share today, it concerns the continuity of the Ipoh tree that fell on April 28, 2017. For the information of our loyal readers at orangperak.com, the Ipoh tree that fell was originally planted by the seventh Menteri Besar of Perak, Datuk Sri Wan Mohamed Wan Teh, on January 18, 1980, in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the Rotary Club of Ipoh.
After standing tall and firm for 37 years in front of the Ipoh Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad station, it finally fell following heavy rain accompanied by strong winds. Because this Ipoh tree is important as a symbol for the name of Ipoh, the authorities took steps to replant it for future generations.
On February 21, 2018, an Ipoh sapling was replanted at the same location where the original Ipoh tree was planted on January 18, 1980, which is at the Dataran of the Ipoh Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad station.
The replanting of the Ipoh tree was officiated by the 11th Menteri Besar of Perak, Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abd. Kadir. The replanting of this Ipoh tree is highly significant as it holds historical value for the state of Perak and serves as a symbol for the city of Ipoh.
