Galeria Perdana

Galeria Perdana, on Jalan Ayer Hangat in Langkawi, displays gifts and possessions received by former Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad over several decades. Its collection ranges from medals and classic cars to textiles, weapons, musical instruments, Islamic art, porcelain and crystal. Look closely at the objects, many made or chosen as gifts, and at the museum’s courtyards, timber latticework and stained glass. The galleries occupy two two-storey buildings joined by an enclosed passage, so allow time to explore both.

A collection linked to public service

Galeria Perdana brings together gifts and possessions received by Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad over several decades. The collection connects a wide range of objects to one person: awards and congratulatory medals sit alongside items from different countries and traditions.

Among the displays are silver, textiles, weapons, musical instruments, Islamic art, porcelain and crystal. Other objects include African carvings, Chinese pottery, golfing trophies and classic cars. Some gifts were specially made, while others came from heads of state. The variety is part of the visit: each room can shift from one type of object to another.

The gallery buildings

The museum occupies two two-storey buildings connected by an enclosed passage. Its architecture has internal and external courtyards, a post-and-beam structure and a tiered roof. Timber latticework and stained glass add detail to the walls and interiors.

Plan time to move through both buildings and look beyond the display cases to the design of the spaces around them. The galleries are large, and a visit can take a few hours. The parking area is some distance from the entrance, so account for the walk when arranging your arrival.