In and Around Kuala Terengganu || Adventure Spots || Beaches || Islands || Fishing Villages
Economy || People || Shopping || Accommodation || Food || Terengganu Location Map

Islands

Located 50 km off the coast of Kuala Terengganu is one of the most beautiful and exotic islands in Malaysia. Far from the hustle and bustle of a big town or city, Pulau Redang offers crystal clear water, pearly white shores, a colourful array of spectacular marine life, a breathtaking sunset and what could be the world's most mature coral gardens. This paradise-Iike island is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, jungle trekking, fishing, boating and canoeing. It takes about 2 hours by boat from the village of Merang. However, visitors have to abide by the Fisheries Act 1985 as Pulau Redang is one of the few marine parks in Malaysia. No fishing is allowed within a 3.2 km radius of the island, and the collection of coral and aquatic life is prohibited.

Pulau Perhentian, situated 21 km off the coast of Terengganu, consists of two islands: Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil. A trip to this lush and exotic tropical island is a must for all nature lovers and those who enjoy scuba diving, snorkelling, deep sea fishing, swimming, wind surfing, sailing, boating and canoeing. Surrounded by a virgin jungle, swaying palm trees. white sandy beaches, warm sapphire blue waters, and a colourful coral garden, Pulau Perhentian is renowned as one of Malaysia's marine paradise and part of the national marine park. Therefore, the same code applies here, as in Pulau Redang. The journey to this spectacular Island takes about one and a half hours by boat from Kuala Besut.

Pulau Kapas is an island renowned for its pure emerald waters, white sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, caves with swallows' nests, dazzling marine life and superb coral formation. Long kept a secret by lovers of the underwater world, this island offers many secluded areas which are unspoiled and quiet. There are many activities which can be undertaken here. Pulau Kapas is a haven for swimming, snorkelling, wind surfing, kayaking, boating or just lazing around. It is only 6 km or a 30 minute boat ride from Marang.

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Fishing Villages

A very picturesque fishing village, Marang welcomes her visitors with tall swaying coconut trees, cool fresh air, an incredibly beautiful lagoon and a fleet of fishing trawlers. Any visitor to Marang will be easily captivated by its natural beauty and simplistic ambiance.

Besides being considered as the centre for handicraft and traditional textiles in Terengganu, Chendering is also the site for a national deep sea fishing project. Located 6 km south of Kuala Terengganu, Chendering has a long jetty which makes it an excellent site for fishing.

Kijal is a small, quiet and quaint fishing village located north of the Kemaman town. For those who want some peace and solitude, head out for Kijal where you can just laze around while watching fishing fleets returning with the day's catch, fishermen mending their nets or attending to their boats, or just let the cool and invigorating air caress you to a state of tranquility.

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Economy

The main economic activity of the population is fishing. Offshore oil installations in the South China Sea off Terengganu have helped strengthen the state's economy. Kuala Terengganu has transformed from a place "slipped past by time" into a rapidly expanding modern city, while farther down the coast, huge new oil refineries and depots have been springing up.

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People

Apart from nature, the charm of Terengganu lies in its people. They are as beautiful as their state; courteous and helpful. The people of Terengganu welcome with open arms those who wish to share the beauty of the state. They lead a moderate and graceful lifestyle in picturesque villages where religion, tradition and culture are still dominant in their daily activities. Terengganu people are gifted. They are artistically inclined and able to create traditional works of arts including the highly-skilled craft of boat-building.

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Shopping

Terengganu is a paradise for bargain hunters and souvenir collectors. There is ample opportunity to buy batik cloth, songket, traditional woodcarvings, local handicrafts, woven hats and baskets, clothing, intricate filigree silverware, gleaming brassware and decorative wallpieces as well as a staggering variety of dried and fresh food. Another special feature for shoppers are the fascinating bustling weekend markets found in practically every town.

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Accommodation

Vaious forms of accommodation from A frame huts to house boats to chalets to deluxe establishments are available in major towns, villages and islands in Terengganu. Room rates range from RM50 to RM300. Visitors are advised to check with the hotels for the current rates.

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Food

Terengganu cuisine is distinctively memorable for its fresh ingredients, inimitable spices, and unique flavours!

There are many good restaurants in Kuala Terengganu serving Malay, Chinese and Indian dishes. Western cuisine can be found at larger hotels and restaurants in many towns.

Nasi Dagang is glutinous rice, white or pinkish, cooked in coconut milk and served with fish curry, cucumber, pickle and coconut sambal. More recent accompanying items include chicken and seafood cooked in curry.

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