Meriam Talang is a legacy invention of the humble village of Kampung Talang in Kuala Kangsar, Perak. Born in 1937 from the ingenuity of village youth seeking to chase away wild animals and boredom alike. Back then, the tradition began with bamboo cannons and carbide. But over the decades, the humble bamboo gave way to iron giants: 15mm-thick steel pipes once used to dredge sand, now repurposed into instruments of celebration.
These Meriam Talang aren’t just built; they’re crafted, painted with pride, and treated like heirlooms. Some have survived generations, their metal bodies echoing the memories of Aidilfitri past.
Unlike bamboo cannons and commercial firecrackers that are illegal/banned in Malaysia, Kampung Talang is the only place where permits are issued to fire these steel cannons legally, only on Raya eve.
Calcium carbide and water are added into the 15mm-thick steel pipes. Lastly, flame is introduced into the chamber to create a loud bang.
At 11:30pm, the first cannon fires, shaking windows and hearts alike. From dusk till dawn, Meriam Talang fired in synchronized bursts: Some in unison, others in call-and-response, like a symphony of thunder. Between 5am and 6:45am, the meriam pause for Subuh prayers, only to resume again with renewed vigor. And as the final cannon fires into the rising sun, the echoes of Meriam Talang linger in the air, reminding everyone that some sounds are more than just noise. They are legacy.
Tips for visiting Kampung Talang for Meriam Talang Event
As the event happens in the village with narrow roads and very limited parking space, it is recommended to arrive early in the evening before the crowds start to come in. I first parked at a mosque next to the main road and walked into the village, but a local informed me that cars may double park for the event and I might not be able to drive away later. Instead, he offered me a ride on his motorbike back to my car, and led me to his backyard to park my car, so that I could leave the village anytime with ease.
Make use of the daylight to navigate the village roads, explore the paddy fields, and check out the designs of Meriam Talang by different teams, set up across the village. While there will be many hours of waiting for the event to start at 11.30pm, the villagers always welcome visitors to take part in helping with the preparation of the event, and eager to share the experience and celebration together.
Also, bring earplugs or use your earphones to protect your hearing.
While there are food stalls pop-ups for the event, before you come, try Kuala Kangsar’s best Haninanese chicken chop at Fu An Restaurant (actually, the best one I ever had)! I also wanted to try the local’s famous laksa but Malay shops are usually closed during this festive time.
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