Table of Contents
Artificial Intelligence Translates the Language of Animals
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
The Story of AI Learning to Listen to Whales, Dolphins, Birds, and Bees
Twelve chapters on how AI listens to dolphins, sperm whales, humpback whales, birds, and bees to find rules in their sounds, and what this technology means for its risks and for animal rights. Written in simple sentences a child can read, with verified sources in every section.
Table of Contents
AI Deciphers Ancient Scripts
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
Ancient Records Revived by AI
In twelve chapters, this book explains how AI revives records once unreadable, from burned scrolls and wooden slips buried in mud to broken clay tablets. It covers virtual unrolling at Herculaneum, virtual collation of oracle-bone texts, reading Silla wooden tablets, computational analysis of undeciphered scripts, and multispectral archives, with verified references for each chapter.
Table of Contents
Artificial Intelligence for New Materials Design and Rocket Propulsion Engineering
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
AI Potentials, Self-Driving Laboratories, and Physics-Informed Machine Learning (PIML)
Ten chapters on how artificial intelligence is changing new materials and rocket propulsion: atomic simulation, generative models, self-driving labs, high-temperature alloys, metal 3D printing, combustion, cooling design, and engine diagnosis and control. Written without equations, with verified sources in every chapter.
AI Library
The Age of Autonomous Scientific Discovery
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
AI Scientists and Self-Driving Labs
This book follows how AI scientists and self-driving labs are changing the way science generates and verifies claims. It covers literature-based discovery, natural-language protocols translated into robot commands, multi-agent research systems, closed-loop laboratories, materials search, the verification gap, chains of evidence, research harnesses, journal ethics, and legal responsibility.
AI Library
A New Era of Life Sciences Opened by Artificial Intelligence
Structural Proteomics, Genomic Foundation Models, Autonomous Laboratories, and Global Governance
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
This book is a research volume compiled with artificial intelligence. A human selected the materials and structured the work, while AI models drafted the sentences and cross-checked the facts.
AI Library
The Double Structure of Digital Sovereignty
Europe’s Departure from Palantir and the Chains of American Big Tech
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
This is a record of 2026, when European intelligence agencies and defense ministries began removing analytics tools from America’s Palantir. It covers the replacement decisions made by France’s General Directorate for Internal Security (DGSI), Germany’s Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV), and the Netherlands Ministry of Defense; the incident in which US export controls severed an ally’s ac…
New English Edition
Artificial Intelligence in Horticulture
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
Across five chapters and ten sections, this book examines computer vision for crop diagnosis, harvesting robots and autonomous field systems, smart greenhouses and digital twins, precision irrigation and supply-chain quality control, high-throughput phenotyping, and predictive breeding.
New English Edition
Artificial Intelligence in Food Crop Agriculture
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
Across six chapters and eighteen sections, the book examines digital agricultural infrastructure, remote sensing, crop diagnosis, yield forecasting, precision irrigation, genomics, molecular breeding, agricultural robotics, climate-smart agriculture, and global food security.
New English Edition
The Future of Forestry and Agroforestry
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
Driven by Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation
Across five chapters and fifteen sections, the book follows satellites, drones, LiDAR, digital twins, forest-specific language models, wildfire and pest forecasting, forestry robotics, agroforestry, timber traceability, and forest carbon markets.
New English Edition
Smart Livestock Farming: AI Enters the Barn
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
Sensors listen, cameras watch, and artificial intelligence helps farmers decide.
Across five chapters and fifteen sections, the book follows precision livestock farming from animal health and reproduction to robotic milking, virtual fencing, digital twins, methane reduction, welfare, and data ownership.
Table of Contents
Han Dong-hoon, Busan Buk-gu Gap: A Record of the 100 Days Before and After the Election (Mar. 26-Jul. 3, 2026)
Kim Kyung-jin
Table of Contents and 13 sections
From March 26 to July 3, 2026, this record follows the spring after expulsion, the Busan Buk-gu Gap by-election, victory as an independent, and the first bill submitted in the National Assembly.
Table of Contents
Artificial Intelligence and Medicine
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
AI in clinical care, hospitals, education, and research
AI in medical imaging, risk prediction, treatment planning, hospital operations, education, and research, with patient safety, privacy, and accountability.
[AI Library] Chapter 15: Ipoh: A Hidden Gem
Malaysia and the Malacca Strait: Whoever Controls It Controls the World
Chapter 15: Ipoh: A Hidden Gem
Kim Kyung-jin
Part 4: Major Cities and Tourism
The Tin Mining City
Ipoh, located in the state of Perak, is Malaysia's third largest city, yet it remains a hidden gem, relatively unknown to foreign tourists compared to Kuala Lumpur or Penang. Situated in the heart of the Kinta Valley, this city was once the world's largest tin producer, and traces of its prosperous past remain scattered throughout the city.
From the late nineteenth century to the mid-twentieth century, Ipoh prospered through tin mining, earning the title "Eldorado of the East." During this period, many Chinese laborers migrated to the region, and their descendants remain a major component of Ipoh's population today. At the height of the tin boom, numerous wealthy merchants and adventurers flocked to Ipoh, and the city developed rapidly.
The abundant tin deposits in the Kinta Valley are connected to limestone formations that developed approximately 250 million years ago. This region's unique geological characteristics allowed tin veins to form close to the surface, making extraction relatively easy. The primary mining method of the time was the gravel pump, a technique that used water and compressed air to extract tin-bearing gravel.
When visiting Ipoh today, traces of the old tin mines on the outskirts of the city are visible. Many abandoned mines have transformed into lakes, while others have been redeveloped as eco-parks or recreational facilities. Kinta Eco Park and Gunung Lang Recreation Park are prime examples of environments damaged by past tin mining that have been restored into beautiful natural spaces.
Those seeking to understand the history of tin mining in greater depth should visit the Ipoh Tin Mining Museum. The museum displays detailed exhibits on the history of tin mining in the Kinta Valley, the development of mining techniques, and the impact of this industry on Ipoh's development and culture. Full-scale models of tin mining equipment and exhibits recreating the lives of miners provide visitors with vivid historical education.
British geologist John Brookfield, who visited Ipoh in 1958, wrote in his diary: "The sight I witnessed in the Kinta Valley was truly remarkable. Hundreds of water columns shot skyward, and the sound of massive machinery excavating the earth echoed throughout the valley. It evoked memories of British mining villages during the Industrial Revolution, yet the scale and vigor were far more overwhelming. The fact that tin extracted from this small valley was supplied as core material for industrialization worldwide made me contemplate the interconnectedness of the global economy."
Even after the decline of the tin industry, Ipoh treasures its historical legacy. The city's identity remains closely tied to the history of tin mining, evident in the architecture, culture, and even local cuisine throughout the city.
Colonial-Era Architecture
Another attraction in Ipoh is its well-preserved colonial-era architecture. As wealth from tin mining flowed into the city, Ipoh was filled with beautiful buildings displaying diverse architectural styles in the early twentieth century. The Old Town and New Town areas in the city center retain well-preserved colonial and Art Deco structures.
Ipoh Railway Station, completed in 1917, stands as one of the most notable colonial-era structures. Known by the nickname "Taj Mahal of the East," this building follows Neo-Saracenic style, characterized by its white exterior, domes, and arched passageways. Within the station building sits The Majestic Hotel Ipoh, a luxury property that offers visitors a chance to experience colonial elegance.
Across from the station stand the Ipoh Town Hall and the former post office building. These structures were also built during the same period and follow similar architectural styles. The Town Hall's grand ballroom was the center of social activity in colonial British society at that time.
In Ipoh's old town stands the Birch Memorial Clock Tower, established in 1916. This clock tower was erected to commemorate James Birch, the first British resident of Perak. The tower's shaft is decorated with bas-reliefs symbolizing the advancement of human civilization, and its top features a four-sided clock. Interestingly, the original depiction of Muhammad in the bas-reliefs was later removed to show respect for Islamic culture.
The area around Kong Heng Square is known for its well-preserved shophouses. These two to three-story structures feature the traditional Chinese-Malay architectural style, with commercial space on the ground floor and residential space above. Recently, this area has been reborn with trendy cafes, boutique shops, and galleries, becoming a popular destination for young people and tourists.
The Royal Perak Club, established in the 1880s, was a social club for British elites and remains an important building for understanding colonial society. Equipped with sports facilities for golf, cricket, and tennis, it was a primary gathering place for British tin mine owners and administrators. Today it operates as a members' club, though some facilities are open to visitors.
British novelist W. Somerset Maugham, who visited Ipoh in 1935, described the city's atmosphere this way: "Ipoh gives the impression of a small English town transplanted to the heart of the East. The broad streets, manicured lawns, and elegant colonial buildings evoke nostalgia for home, yet the dense tropical vegetation surrounding the area and the diversity of people remind one that this is the heart of the Malay Peninsula. The city is a fascinating example of East and West coexisting harmoniously."
Ipoh's colonial architecture provides important evidence of Malaysia's complex historical legacy. These buildings reflect British imperial influence while demonstrating adaptation and fusion with local culture. Today, Ipoh City preserves and utilizes these historical structures to develop the city's unique identity and tourism resources.
Historical Sites and Memorials
Through its abundant historical sites and memorials, Ipoh reveals Malaysia's diverse past. Beyond colonial-era architecture, the city boasts historical places of various cultures and religions.
Paloh Ku Miao, Ipoh's oldest Taoist temple built in 1872, follows Cantonese architectural style. The temple served as a religious and social center for early Chinese immigrants who settled in Ipoh. Known for its ornate dragon sculptures and intricate woodwork, the temple remains an active place of worship today.
The Hor Yang Gor Temple, located in central Ipoh and built by Chinese immigrants from Guangdong, impresses with its unique architectural style and elaborate interior decorations. The temple's interior murals vividly depict Chinese mythology and legends, offering glimpses into the rich narratives of Chinese folk religion.
Ipoh's Indian community centers on the Kallumalai Murugan Temple, built in 1912. This Hindu temple was constructed in South Indian Dravidian style, featuring colorful sculptures and intricate bas-reliefs. During the annual Thaipusam festival, numerous devotees and tourists visit this temple.
Masjid India Mosque stands as an important site for the Malay-Muslim community. Established by Indian Muslim merchants in the late nineteenth century, it reflects Indian and Middle Eastern architectural influences. This mosque, characterized by its white and blue exterior, exemplifies Ipoh's religious diversity.
Ipoh D.R. Seenivasagam Park, an important historical park created in the 1950s, commemorates Malaysia's development and unity following independence. The park features beautiful landscaping along with various memorials and statues. At its center stands the Merdeka Monument, commemorating Malaysia's independence.
Ipoh Memorial Garden honors those who died during the Japanese occupation of World War II. This peaceful garden contains monuments inscribed with the names of war victims, serving as an important reminder of a dark period in Malaysian history.
In his 1992 book "Ipoh: Celebrated Gem," Malaysian historian Abdul Malik wrote: "Ipoh's historical sites contain stories of multiple eras and cultures, much like geological strata. From Taoist temples to Hindu temples to mosques, and from colonial buildings to independence memorials, this city is like a living museum where one can experience Malaysia's multicultural history all in one place. Walking through Ipoh is like walking through Malaysia's complex and layered past."
Ipoh was also an important backdrop for Malaysia's independence movement. Following Japan's surrender in 1945, Ipoh became a center of political activity toward independence. The Independence Declaration Memorial near Ipoh City Hall commemorates the historic moment on August 31, 1957, when Malaysia, then known as the Federation of Malaya, declared independence from Britain.
These diverse historical sites and memorials prove that Ipoh transcends being merely a tin mining city; it represents an important location demonstrating Malaysia's rich cultural and historical diversity.
Places to Experience Local Life
Ipoh's true charm manifests most vividly in places where locals conduct daily life rather than in elaborate tourist attractions. Because Ipoh remains relatively unknown to tourists, it offers opportunities to experience authentic Malaysian culture and lifestyle.
Mornings in Ipoh begin at traditional kopitiams, or coffee shops. These traditional establishments are scattered throughout the city and serve as social gathering places where locals have breakfast and chat with friends. Notable kopitiams include Sin Yoon Loong and Hoe Kee, where visitors can enjoy Ipoh's famous White Coffee alongside local breakfast specialties such as kaya toast, bao, and char kuay teow.
Ipoh White Coffee represents the city and is known for its smooth, fragrant taste achieved through a special roasting method. While this coffee is now popular throughout Malaysia, the authentic original flavor is best found in Ipoh.
Ipoh Central Market offers an ideal vantage point for observing local life. Each morning, locals gather to purchase fresh ingredients, and the market displays Malaysia's diverse foodstuffs, spices, and local specialties. Street food stalls surrounding the market serve various local dishes including laksa, char koay teow, and nasi kandar.
Ipoh's "Little India" district offers a venue to experience the vibrant culture of Malaysian Indians. Centered on Jalan Lahat, this area abounds with colorful saris and traditional dress, Indian spices and cuisine, and Bollywood music filling the streets. During Hindu festivals such as Deepavali or Thaipusam, the atmosphere becomes even more lively.
The Kong Heng Square area has been revitalized recently by younger generations, with old shophouses transformed into trendy cafes, art galleries, and vintage stores. This district showcases an interesting blend of tradition and modernity, bustling with locals and tourists on weekends. Cafes like Plan B and Kong Heng are known for their distinctive atmosphere and good food.
Walking paths around the Kinta River are where locals enjoy morning exercise or evening strolls. Recently restored riverside areas are well-maintained, and with the addition of murals and landscaping, they have become important recreational spaces. Walking along the riverbank offers views of both Ipoh's historic buildings and new development areas.
In 2018, Malaysian author Tan Twan Eng wrote of Ipoh: "Ipoh's true charm lies not in attractions from tourist guides, but in ordinary places where locals conduct their daily lives. Elderly men greeting the morning in old coffee shops, housewives bargaining vibrantly in markets, families gathering by the riverside for conversation at dusk... these everyday moments combine to create Ipoh's distinctive atmosphere. The city doesn't display itself grandly, but as you spend quiet time getting to know it, you discover deeper and deeper allure."
Villages (kampungs) on the outskirts of Ipoh offer opportunities to experience traditional Malaysian rural life. Villages such as Kampung Simee and Kampung Gajah remain less affected by urban development, preserving traditional lifestyles and dwellings. Some villages offer homestay programs allowing visitors to stay with local families and experience traditional Malaysian living.
Thus, Ipoh attracts not through spectacular tourist attractions, but through places offering authentic local life and culture. As a destination still relatively untouched by mass tourism, Ipoh remains a hidden gem, offering special experiences to travelers seeking authentic Malaysia.
Kim Kyung-jin
Attorney · Former Member of the National Assembly · AI Policy Researcher
© 2026 Kim Kyung-jin. All rights reserved.