By Ahmad Abd Hamid
What makes the relatively quiet town of Sungai Bayor in Selama, Perak, come alive every Friday morning?
A record-breaking river of stalls, scents, and stories—stretching 2.3 km one way, 4.6 km round trip — now officially crowned Malaysia’s Longest Morning Market by the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) on Sept 5, 2025.
This vibrant pasar pagi, which has been a community heartbeat since the 1960s, has finally overtaken Temerloh’s famed market in Pahang (2.1 km) to claim the national title.
For the people of Selama—a subdistrict nestled in the northern reaches of Larut, Matang and Selama—it’s more than a record. It’s a long-awaited badge of pride.
According to records, Sungai Bayor had a longer history than Selama, whose original name was Selamat that was established in 1870 by Abdul Karim Raja Aman Shah. During those times, Sungai Bayor was mostly inhabited by Malays from the Pattani district of Thailand. Abdul Karim, who was instrumental in the opening up of Selama, had also invited Sumatrans of Rawa descent and Chinese to develop its tin ore deposits in the area then.
A Community’s Dream, Six Years in the Making
Sungai Bayor’s recognition didn’t happen overnight. For six years, the Selama District Council (Majlis Daerah Selama, or MDS) worked hand-in-hand with the Selama Hawkers’ Association and various government agencies to make this dream a reality. Their persistence has now placed Sungai Bayor firmly on the tourism map — just in time for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
A Market Like No Other
Every Friday morning, the quiet lanes of Sungai Bayor transform into a bustling corridor of commerce and culture. Over 500 hawkers—some from as far as Penang and Kedah — line both sides of the road, offering everything from piping hot local delicacies to fresh produce, handmade crafts, clothing, and household essentials.
It’s not just a market — it’s a weekly reunion. Locals mingle with out-of-towners, early risers swap stories over breakfast, and the air hums with the rhythm of trade and laughter.
Whether you’re hunting for kampung vegetables, exquisite sambal, or a new batik shirt, chances are you’ll find it here — and some even more.
More Than Just Shopping
To elevate the experience, MDS plans to introduce cultural showcases like traditional fashion shows and heritage performances on a monthly or quarterly basis. These events aim to celebrate the region’s rich cultural tapestry while drawing even more visitors to this unique marketplace.
Ready for the 4.6 km Challenge?
If you’re up for it, walking the full length of the market is a mini adventure in itself. But even if you only make it halfway, the sensory journey is worth it. Just remember: come early to beat the crowd and the heat. Ample parking and public toilets are available for your comfort.
Beyond the Market: Discover Selama
Sungai Bayor is just the beginning. Selama’s lush landscapes, hidden waterfalls, and historical gems make it a haven for eco-tourists and weekend explorers. Whether you’re escaping the concrete jungle or seeking a slower pace, Selama offers a breath of fresh air — and a taste of authentic Malaysia.
So, pack your shopping bags or baskets, lace up your walking shoes, and come experience the longest morning market in the country.
Because in Sungai Bayor, every Friday is a celebration of community, culture, and the simple joy of discovery.