Istana Kenangan

Istana Kenangan is a former royal palace in Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kangsar, Perak, now housing the Perak Royal Museum (Muzium Diraja Perak). Built in 1926 as a temporary residence for Sultan Iskandar Shah while Istana Iskandariah was under construction, it is renowned for its traditional Malay architecture constructed entirely of timber without nails. The palace showcases Perak royal heritage and craftsmanship.

Visitors can expect a two-storey timber palace built on stilts with distinctive woven bamboo walls (dinding kelarai), carved wooden details and a traditional Malay roof form. Inside, galleries display Perak royal regalia, photographs, and artifacts related to the Perak Sultanate. The building is surrounded by the Bukit Chandan royal precinct near Istana Iskandariah and Masjid Ubudiah. Grounds are compact and explored on foot with guided interpretation.

Built in 1926 by Malay carpenter Enci Sepian with his sons Zainal Abidin and Ismail, commissioned by Sultan Iskandar Shah (Sultan of Perak 1918-1938) as a temporary palace named Istana Lembah while Istana Iskandariah was being constructed. Constructed entirely of timber using traditional interlocking techniques without nails. Later served as the Perak Royal Museum to preserve the history of the Perak Sultanate.

An important example of traditional Perak Malay palace architecture and craftsmanship, showcasing woven wall panels, carved timber details and stilt construction. It preserves and interprets the heritage, regalia and customs of the Perak Sultanate and serves as a cultural landmark within the royal town of Kuala Kangsar.