Bandar Baru Kampar was once just part of Kampar, a small town known for tin mining. When the mining industry collapsed in the 1980s, the town faced economic struggles. To revive the area, a new township was planned, focusing on education and development. The turning point came in the 2000s with the establishment of UTAR and TARC, bringing in a large student population. This led to rapid growth, with new housing, businesses, and modern facilities emerging.
Today, Bandar Baru Kampar has transformed from an old mining town into a vibrant student and education hub, filled with life, opportunities, and modern convenience.
Bandar Baru Kampar has a diverse and growing community, mainly made up of students, locals, and business owners. The large student population from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) brings energy to the town, supporting businesses like cafes, restaurants, and shops. Locals, including longtime residents and newcomers, run businesses and provide services, making the town lively and convenient. The mix of students and residents creates a friendly and busy atmosphere, especially around universities and commercial areas.
Overall, it’s a modern, student-friendly town with a strong sense of community.
The culture in Bandar Baru Kampar is a blend of traditional Malaysian heritage and modern student life. Since many students from different backgrounds live there, the town has a mix of Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences, especially in its food, festivals, and daily life. Traditional markets and eateries serve local favorites, while modern cafes and international restaurants cater to students. Festivals like Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, and Deepavali are widely celebrated, bringing the community together. The student presence also adds a vibrant, youthful culture with educational events, club activities, and nightlife spots.
The food in Bandar Baru Kampar is a mix of traditional local flavors and modern student-friendly options. Since the town has a strong Chinese influence, Kampar’s famous dishes like chicken curry bread, claypot chicken rice, and Kampar lou shu fun (silver needle noodles) are widely available. Malay and Indian food are also popular, with nasi lemak, roti canai, and banana leaf rice being common choices. The student population has brought in a variety of cafés, bubble tea shops, and Western food outlets, making the food scene diverse and affordable. From traditional hawker stalls to trendy cafés, Bandar Baru Kampar offers a great mix of local and modern flavors, making it a great place for food lovers.
Bandar Baru Kampar has a variety of facilities to support its growing community, especially students. It has universities like UTAR and TARC, making it a major education hub. There are also banks, supermarkets, convenience stores, and shopping areas for daily needs.
For healthcare, the town has clinics, pharmacies, and the UTAR Hospital for medical services. Public transport options, including buses and trains, connect Kampar to other cities. Recreational facilities like gyms, parks, and sports centers provide places for exercise and relaxation.
With its mix of modern conveniences and student-friendly services, Bandar Baru Kampar is a well-equipped and comfortable place to live.