Pusing

Pusing (Jawi: ڤوسيڠ; Chinese: 布先) is a small town in Kinta District, Perak, Malaysia. It is located in the western part of Perak, approximately 18 kilometers southeast of Ipoh, the state capital. It is surrounded by scenic landscapes and is known for its lush greenery.

Village (Kampung)/Housing Area (Taman)

  • Railway Reserve
  • Kampung Baru Gunung Hijau
  • Taman Medan Pusing
  • Taman Pelangi
  • Taman Gunung Hijau
  • Kampung Pinang A
  • Kampung Pinang B
  • Kampung Papan
  • Kampung Papan Baru
  • Taman Pusing Murni
  • Taman Cenderawasih
  • Taman Pusing Mutiara
  • Bandar Baru Puspa
  • Taman Pusing Baru
  • Taman Pusing Mewah
  • Medan Pusing Saujana
  • Taman Pusing Perdana
  • Taman Batu Gajah Perdana
  • Taman Pusing Delima

History

Pusing emerged as a prominent player during the tin mining boom that engulfed Perak in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The discovery of substantial tin deposits in the Kinta Valley attracted a diverse influx of immigrants, particularly from China, who sought their fortunes in the lucrative mining trade. As the Chinese population grew, Pusing transformed into a bustling settlement with thriving mining operations.

The town's name, "Pusing," meaning "turn" in the Malay language, is believed to derive from the winding nature of the Kinta River that flowed through the area. The river played a vital role in transporting tin ore and other goods, serving as an economic lifeline for Pusing's booming tin mining industry.

During the British colonial era, Pusing experienced further development as a tin mining town. The British administration recognized the economic potential of the region and invested in infrastructure, including roads, railways, and bridges, to facilitate the transportation of tin ore from Pusing to the coast for export.

Pusing flourished as tin mining activities reached their zenith. Numerous tin mines, dredges, and processing facilities were established, attracting workers and contributing to the town's growth. The wealth generated from tin mining propelled Pusing's economy and established its position as a significant center for the industry.

However, the decline of tin mining in the mid-20th century brought about significant changes. Factors such as the depletion of easily accessible tin deposits and fluctuations in global tin markets led to a gradual decrease in mining operations. Pusing, along with other areas in the region, witnessed the waning of the once-thriving industry.

Adapting to the changing economic landscape, Pusing transitioned into an agricultural hub. The fertile lands surrounding the town became instrumental in cultivating crops like oil, palm, rubber, and fruits. Agriculture became the primary focus, and became a huge part of Pusing's Economy

Accessibility

Pusing is easily accessible by road. The North-South Expressway connects the town to major cities in Malaysia, making it convenient for travelers to reach Pusing by car or bus. The nearest airport is the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh, which offers domestic flights.

Festivals

Pusing celebrates various festivals. The Chinese community celebrates the Chinese New Year, Mooncake Festival, and Hungry Ghost Festival, while Malays commemorate Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Haji.

Cuisine

Pusing offers a variety of local delicacies, including traditional Chinese dishes, Malay cuisine, and Indian-Muslim specialties, such as Ipoh Hor Fun (flat rice noodles), Nasi Kandar (spiced rice with various curries), and White Coffee.

Ethnography

80% of the residents are ethnically Chinese of Cantonese and/or Hakka origin, and the rest are Malay, Indian or others.

Educational

Primary Schools: Sekolah Kebangsaan Pusing, Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (Cina) Yit Chee, Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (Cina) Gunung Hijau.

Secondary School: SMK Pusing.

Facilities

  • Pusing Post Office, Lahat Road, 31550 Pusing.
  • Pusing Police Station, Batu Gajah Road, 31550 Pusing.
  • Perpustakaan Umum Pusing (Pusing Public Library)

Religion

  • Masjid Hasni
  • Tham Sen Temple
  • Gurdwara Sahib
  • Sri Muneeswarar Temple
  • Methodist Church

Notable people

Jeffrey Cheah, founder and chairman of the Sunway Group.


4°30′N 101°01′E / 4.500°N 101.017°E / 4.500; 101.017