BOH’s presence at Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad reflects a shared history that dates back to the formative years of Kuala Lumpur. The Russell family, founders of BOH, have been part of Malaya’s development since 1890, when John Russell, fondly known as ‘Jack’, arrived in the Straits Settlements as the Selangor Government Printer. Serving under the British Resident in Selangor, Jack played a key role in documenting Malaya’s early governance, infrastructure and social life, at a time when the Government Offices, today known as the Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad, stood at the heart of the nation’s administrative life.
From the early years, the family actively participated in Malaya’s progress, across printing, engineering, construction, mining, agriculture and commerce. This legacy continued on when J.A. Russell, one of Jack’s sons, founded BOH Plantations in 1929, pioneering Malaya’s first highland tea garden in the Cameron Highlands and laying the foundation for what would become Malaysia’s most beloved tea brand.
BOH’s involvement is part of Khazanah Nasional’s Dana Warisan initiative under the Warisan KL project which seeks to conserve and rejuvenate national heritage assets by reimagining them for adaptive reuse as inclusive, dynamic and living spaces. Launched by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Warisan KL unites government agencies, GLCs, GLICs, private partners, and communities to transform heritage buildings into platforms that connect the past with the present, foster civic pride, engage communities – including visitors and tourists – and inspire future generations.
Rooted in nearly a century of Malaysian heritage, BOH’s history is one of enterprise, resilience and long-term stewardship – values that resonate strongly with Warisan KL’s commitment to sustainable nation-building.
As part of this initiative, BOH is presenting curated exhibits recounting its legacy from 1890 to the present, offering visitors an immersive journey through its heritage and participation in Malaysia’s development. Visitors can also take home a tangible part of this living legacy through BOH iconic teas, available for purchase at its onsite retail outlet.
As BOH approaches a century of tea-making excellence, its participation in this rejuvenation project reaffirms a long-standing commitment to heritage, sustainability and community – brewing a legacy that continues to evolve with the nation. BOH…. Brewing for Tomorrow.
If you are in the mood for some tea check out some of our selection below, or click here to explore our wider selection of teas:
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