Kelantan’s Coastal Heart of Farming, Faith, and Heritage
Pasir Puteh District, located in the southeastern part of Kelantan, Malaysia, is a beautiful district blessed with coastal beaches, fertile farmlands, and a strong Islamic and Malay cultural identity. Bordering Terengganu and the South China Sea, the district acts as a strategic link between east coast states and is well-known for its natural charm and agricultural prosperity.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Pasir Puteh District |
| State | Kelantan |
| District Capital | Pasir Puteh Town |
| Area | Approx. 1,167 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 170,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Pasir Puteh) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Pasir Puteh (MDPP) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Pasir Puteh District is divided into 7 mukims, including:
- Bandar Pasir Puteh
- Selising
- Bukit Awang
- Gong Datok
- Kampung Gajah
- Jelor
- Limbat
Key Towns and Areas
- Pasir Puteh Town – Administrative and business hub
- Selising – Commercial sub-town with markets and schools
- Bukit Awang – Known for recreational parks and rural charm
- Tok Bali – Emerging port town and gateway to Perhentian Islands
Economy & Livelihood
- Agriculture: Main economic driver
- Paddy fields, coconut, banana, and vegetable farming
- Fisheries: Especially in Tok Bali and nearby coastal villages
- Small businesses and markets for food, clothes, and tools
- Tok Bali Port Development: Marine, logistics, and tourism growth
Education & Religious Institutions
- Government and Islamic schools in all major mukims
- Tahfiz centers and pondok-style madrasahs
- Quranic and Arabic learning is widespread
- Local ulama and mosque-based da’wah programs are active
Healthcare
- Hospital Pasir Puteh – public hospital serving the district
- Rural clinics (Klinik Kesihatan) and mobile health outreach
- Pharmacies and private clinics in Pasir Puteh and Selising
Transport & Connectivity
- Main roads: Federal Route 3 (coastal highway) and 4
- Bus terminals and taxi stands in Pasir Puteh Town
- Tok Bali Jetty offers ferry services to islands in Terengganu
- Closest airport: Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (Kota Bharu)
Tourism & Attractions
- Pantai Bisikan Bayu (Beach of Whispering Breeze):
- A serene, palm-fringed beach perfect for relaxation
- Bukit Awang Recreational Park – jungle trekking, picnic, and views
- Tok Bali:
- Fishing port, seafood restaurants, and jetty to Perhentian Islands
- Pasir Puteh Market: Bustling with fresh produce and local snacks
- Cultural and religious tourism: mosques, madrasahs, and Islamic centers
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Strong Malay-Muslim community with deep-rooted traditions
- Local delicacies include:
- Nasi Kerabu Tok Bali, Ikan Bakar Pantai Bisikan Bayu,
- Laksam, Ketupat Sotong, Kuih Tahi Itik, Pulut Sekaya
- Friday and night markets are lively and rich in authentic flavors
- Traditional arts: Dikir Barat, Wayang Kulit, batik making
Summary
Pasir Puteh is Kelantan’s coastal countryside, where agriculture, ocean breeze, and Islamic culture harmoniously shape daily life. With its growing port town Tok Bali, charming kampungs, and quiet beaches, Pasir Puteh offers a lifestyle that is simple, spiritual, and deeply Malaysian.