Hidden amongst the modern high-rises of Relau lies a forgotten gem. Relau Villa whispers tales of a bygone era. It stands as a testament to the life of Chung Thye Phin, the last Kapitan Cina of Perak. Relau Villa was his summer retreat, a place where he could escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Chung Thye Phin, a man of immense wealth and refined taste, commissioned the construction of Relau Villa in the early 1930s. He envisioned a tranquil oasis inspired by the canals of Venice and the serene ponds of China. He hired architect Ung Ban Hoe from the firm Stark & McNeil. Ung Ban Hoe, known for introducing reinforced concrete buildings to Penang, brought Chung Thye Phin’s vision to life.
Relau Villa boasted Penang Island’s first private freshwater swimming pool. Imagine the delight of Chung Thye Phin’s children. They would throw rambutans into the pool and dive in to retrieve them. The villa also housed a music room, dining room, study room, and even an opium room for entertaining guests. Corinthian columns adorned the pool area and the front of the house, adding a touch of classical elegance. Sadly, Chung Thye Phin passed away in 1935, shortly after the villa’s completion. He had little time to enjoy his opulent creation.
Today, Relau Villa stands in ruins. Its once vibrant walls are now crumbling. The lush gardens are overgrown. Yet, the remnants of its grandeur still evoke a sense of wonder. The skeletal frame of the swimming pool hints at lavish parties and carefree days. The decaying columns whisper stories of a life lived in luxury.
The Penang Island Municipal Council has fenced off the main building in an attempt to preserve what remains. Relau Villa, despite its dilapidated state, continues to captivate. It offers a glimpse into the life of a remarkable man and a bygone era of Penang’s history. Relau Villa, though abandoned, remains a timeless treasure. It reminds us of the transient nature of wealth and the enduring power of history.