Assalamualaikum,
Another short entry regarding a trip to Papan, Perak with one sole intention; visiting an old istana ( castle) which I first assumed belong to Raja Billah in Raub,Pahang.
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| Makam Raja Billah, Raub Pahang |
Apparently, Raja Billah of Raub is not the same person as Raja Billah, the first penghulu ( village head) of Kg Papan, Perak. This is affirmed by his great grand daughter, which I affectionately addressed as Nenek Saadiah.
Accompanied by her friend, Nenek Sariya, I was told that this is actually a 'rumah agam' ( mansion), the term 'istana' is only coined by those who first visited and studied the mansion.
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| 'Rumah Agam' Raja Billah |
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| From a side |
Comprised of two storey, the ground floor is more likely a gathering hall with 'astaka' or mini stage located at another end ,which, I imagined a place for gathering for his relatives or people who wish to have his audience. The second floor is another spacious area with two doors lead to bedrooms;
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| Ground floor, red tiles as the footing base |
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| Spacious hall at first floor |
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| One of the bedrooms |
The mansion has a mix of European and Chinese architectural design. I was more impressed by the gilded door which is further secured mechanically by means of sliding bars as shown in picture below. The quality of the mansion is further appreciated by the carving on each of its door & window
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| The star & crescent moon as its motive |
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| Refine carving of 'tebuk timbul' on each window/door |
Not to forget its courtyard;
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| Small gate or arcway that leads to courtyard |
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| Courtyard from main driveway |
This Warisan Negara building has witnessed its glory & as I parted with Nenek Saadiah & Nenek Sariya, I hope this will continuously retained as one of Perak valueable mark of Mandailing legacy.
To Nenek Saadiah & Nenek Sariya, may Allah ease your life, tranquility & everlasting happiness 😊
Istana Raja Billah, 6th April 2019 ✔💯
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