Nestled along Jalan Tun Abdul Razak in Ipoh, the Medan Kidd Bus Station stands as a silent witness to the city’s rich past and enduring legacy. Since its establishment in 1938, this iconic landmark has played a pivotal role in shaping the transportation landscape of Ipoh, leaving behind a trail of nostalgic memories and historical significance.
Originally known as Kidd Road Station, the bus terminal was named after Major George Montgomery Kidd, a British officer who left an indelible mark on the region’s history. Serving as the main public transportation hub in Ipoh, it replaced the erstwhile Hill Street and quickly became synonymous with convenience and connectivity.
During its heyday, Medan Kidd Bus Station was abuzz with activity, bustling with the comings and goings of the iconic Red Buses and Green Buses, fondly known as Bas General. These pioneering bus companies laid the foundation for modern transportation in Ipoh, ferrying passengers across the city and beyond.
Over the years, Medan Kidd Bus Station underwent several upgrades and renovations to keep pace with the evolving needs of the community. In 1960, a significant overhaul saw the transition from wooden boards to sturdy stone construction, transforming its appearance and enhancing its functionality.
Despite its historical significance, Medan Kidd Bus Station today stands as a shadow of its former self, bearing the scars of neglect and decay. The once vibrant hub now languishes in disrepair, with non-operational bus company counters and a defunct wall clock serving as poignant reminders of bygone days.
As Ipoh embraces progress and development, it is imperative to preserve and honor the heritage of Medan Kidd Bus Station. Responsible authorities must heed the call to action, undertaking efforts to restore and rejuvenate this historical gem before it fades into obscurity.
With concerted efforts and collective commitment, Medan Kidd Bus Station can reclaim its rightful place as a cherished landmark in the heart of Ipoh. As we celebrate its rich history and cultural significance, let us embark on a journey to safeguard its legacy for generations to come, ensuring that the spirit of Medan Kidd lives on as a beacon of our shared heritage.
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If you have any experience at Medan Kidd Bus Station please share your thoughts and review in the comment below.
Medan Kidd is an absolute gem for budget travellers in Malaysia. I visit Malaysia a few times every year, and when I’m in Ipoh I use this terminal often to travel by bus around Perak, regularly from Ipoh to Taiping via Kuala Kangsar which involves a change of buses at ‘KK’ and time spent chatting to locals and feeding the many stray cats at that sleepy town’s bus terminal. So for me, MK is a small slice of home, along with your iconic Ipoh Railway Station which happens to be about seven minutes’ walk away (if one trots along at a fast pace) so equally easy to get to and from. Indeed, if I find I have an hour or so to kill before my bus to wherever I’m going turns up, I usually walk to the station for a cold ice lemon juice and maybe a snack at the rail station’s small cafe. MK lacks such a facility, or maybe there is one there but I’ve just not found it. Next time I will look more carefully…
I agree with the author of this interesting article that the terminal is now needs a facelift. But it still goes on serving people by providing bus travel to just about everywhere in the state, it’s an easy location to get to from anywhere in Ipoh city, and also not too far from the many food delights Ipoh’s Old Town has to offer.
Long may MK go on going on serving locals, regional residents and of course we tourists!!
Best from DANN in Melbourne – back to Ipoh in May and greatly looking forward to it – and being again at MK.