Exploring Malaysia 
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Shopping
Perak is known for high quality and beautifully crafted clay and porcelain ware, particularly the black sayong pottery and its traditional tapestry ‘tekat’ - golden thread embroidered tapestry.
Among the popular spots to shop for local handicrafts are at Kampung Padang Changkat, Kampung Berala, Kampung Kepala Bendang and Enggor. Handicraft stores can also be found along the Ipoh-Kuala Kangsar trunk road. For demonstrations of weaving and craftwork you could try visiting their handicraft centres among which is the Pulau Tiga Handicraft Centre. The Perak Branch Handicraft Development Corporation of Malaysia, the most comprehensive one stop centre for local handicrafts, specialises in the manufacturing of ceramic products such as the 'labu sayong' (water gourds made from semi-porous blackened burnt clay).
The 'Labu' is an earthenware pitcher used traditionally to store drinking water. It is believed that it not only keeps its contents cool but it is also claimed that the water stored this way cures certain ailments. Other products available here are are terracotta and glazed pots which are converted into flowerpots, potpourri vases, lamp bases and wall decorations. Other areas to acquire Perak’s famed ceramics would be at Kraf Semanggol for export quality ceramic items and also at the Kuala Kangsar souvenir stalls, located near the banks of Sungai Perak.
Perak is also well known for its citrus delights such as seedless guavas and pomelos. These juicy fruits make ideal gifts for your friends and family. Off late it is also gaining a reputation for providing quality durian fruit. Many roadside stalls sell a wide range of freshly-picked local fruits.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Nightlife in Perak can be found mainly in the capital, Ipoh. The Greentown area is also an entertainment hotspot with a hive of activities with restaurants, food outlets, cafes and other entertainment outlets booming. Medan Ipoh (formerly known as Metro Ipoh Baru) is a favourite for many younger people with its offerings of varied entertainment outlets, F&B outlets and even cybercafes!
