Sarawak State Library -

Old Kuala Lumpur

Call no.: : 959.51 GUL
Author: : J. M. Gullick
Contributor: : Fezzanne Anak Raymond Umpu
Summary: Since its founding about 1860, Kuala Lumpur has had a turbulent history. It was twice overrun by floods, most recently in 1926, and was twice occupied by hostile forces (first in 1872 and once in 1942). The unlikely growth of a modest trade post on a riverbank in the middle of nowhere to the proud position of a state, then a federal, and eventually a national capital is even more amazing. The author has painted a picture of the local communities and their leaders, starting with the illustrious Yap Ah Loy, by following the history of Kuala Lumpur (until 1942). The residents of the town contributed to its current state by providing for their families and participating in customary rituals and amusements.