Hues of Old Malaya
with AI Colorization.
Witness the rebirth of Malaysia's rich history as our AI breathes life into monochrome memories. Through the fusion of deep learning and artistry, powered by a model inspired by DDColor, we transform black-and-white photographs into vibrant, authentic recollections of the past.
View Gallery
About the Project
Hues of Old Malaya is a groundbreaking initiative that merges the precision of artificial intelligence with the beauty of historical preservation. Our advanced convolutional neural networks, inspired by the DDColor model, was implemented to understand the essence of Malaysia's cultural heritage, recoloring black-and-white photographs with hues that echo the vibrancy of the past.
From bustling streets of colonial Malaya to serene kampung landscapes, our AI ensures every detail is revived with authenticity and care. This is more than recolorization—it's a journey through time, where technology meets tradition to rekindle the soul of history.
Technology Behind Hues of Old Malaya
Deep Learning
At the heart of Hues of Old Malaya lies a custom-built CNN (Convolutional Neural Network) architecture, from the state-of-the-art DDColor model. This deep learning algorithm is designed to analyze and predict colors with remarkable accuracy, ensuring that every shade reflects the historical and cultural essence of Malaysia.
Computer Vision
Using advanced computer vision techniques, we preserve intricate details such as the delicate patterns of batik and the vibrant tones of traditional attire. Our technology is optimized for both speed and precision, delivering breathtaking results that make history accessible to everyone.
The Neural Network Architecture
The neural network architecture proposed in the DDColor model for colorization.
Colorization Gallery
Drag the slider to see the difference!
Kuala Lumpur
circa 1950: Sultan Samad Building, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Photo by Three Lions (Getty Images).
Malaysian Shawl
circa 1955: A Malaysian woman wearing a traditional woven sun hat and woven shawl.
Photo by Three Lions (Getty Images).
Lennox-Boyd And Tunku Abdul Rahman
8th February 1956: British Conservative politician Alan Lennox-Boyd shakes hands with Tunku Abdul Rahman after the final signing ceremony of the Federation of Malaya Constitutional Conference at Lancaster House, London.
Photo by Fred Ramage (Getty Images).
Sultan Of Kedah And Princess Tunkusakeah
16th April 1951: The Sultan Of Kedah and his daughter Princess Tunkusakeah arriving in Tilbury to meet his niece Princess Zabriah and her fiance, England.
Photo by Edward Miller (Getty Images).
Borgward Lloyd Autos - Lloyd 600
circa 1950: Lloyd 600 car produced by Germany car manufacturer Lloyd Motor Works, at a signpost in Malaysia.
Photo by ullstein bild (Getty Images).
Latex Checks
circa 1950: A rubber industry worker carrying out a quality check on bottles of latex taken from various test trees in Malaysia.
Photo by Horace Bristol (Getty Images).
Rubber Cutter
circa 1950: A woman trimming the edges off a sheet of latex in the Malaysian rubber industry.
Photo by Three Lions (Getty Images).
Comrades Looking On
25th December 1956: One last look before returning to the jungle "To fight the last man," as Chin Peng (foreground) looks back on the townlet of Bailing here, where the peace talks were held. Behind the Communist Chief, (left) is Chen Tien, his trusted Lieutenant. Just behind him is Abdul Rashid Bin Mahideen, his Malay comrade. (Getty Images).
Photo by Bettmann (Getty Images).
General And Lady Gerald Templer
17th June 1952: General Gerald Templer, High Commissioner of Malaya, with his wife inspecting the inside of a tank during a tour of the Kedah State.
Photo by Keystone (Getty Images).
Grinding Chilli
circa 1950: A young boy grinding chilli in a pestle and mortar in Malaya.
Photo by Three Lions (Getty Images).
Old And Young
circa 1950: A grandmother showing her young grandchild how to use a weaving loom, Malaysia.
Photo by K. F. Wong (Getty Images).
Get In Touch
Have questions or want to collaborate?
Have a piece of history waiting to be revived? Collaborate with us to bring Malaysia’s past to life. Whether you're an archivist, historian, or enthusiast, let’s work together to preserve and celebrate the vibrant legacy of our nation.
Reach out to us and be part of this journey where AI meets artistry, and history is painted anew.