Kelantan’s Inland Crossroad of Growth, Greenery, and Islamic Life
Tanah Merah District, situated in the southwestern region of Kelantan, Malaysia, is a fast-growing district known for its agriculture, transport links, and spiritual heritage. The name “Tanah Merah” literally means “Red Land”, a reference to its iron-rich soil and terrain. With increasing infrastructure, Islamic educational institutions, and rural charm, the district bridges Kelantan’s interior highlands with lowland commerce.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Tanah Merah District |
| State | Kelantan |
| District Capital | Tanah Merah Town |
| Area | Approx. 868 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 160,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Tanah Merah) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Tanah Merah (MDTM) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Tanah Merah District includes 7 mukims, including:
- Bandar Tanah Merah
- Bukit Panau
- Jedok
- Ulu Kusial
- Kelewek
- Manal
- Renok
Key Towns and Areas
- Tanah Merah Town – District capital with government offices, markets, and transport hubs
- Bukit Panau – Educational and semi-urban expansion zone
- Jedok & Ulu Kusial – Rural and agricultural zones
- Manal & Kelewek – Traditional villages with Islamic roots
Economy & Livelihood
- Agriculture is a major contributor:
- Rubber, oil palm, paddy, banana, and fruit orchards
- Small-scale trade and services in town and pasar
- Cottage industries: food processing, traditional snacks, batik
- Transport sector due to strategic rail and road access
Education & Islamic Institutions
- Government primary and secondary schools throughout the district
- Maahad Muhammadi Tanah Merah – reputable Islamic school
- Tahfiz institutions, pondok schools, and mosque-based Quran education
- Government efforts to boost Islamic educational tourism
Healthcare
- Hospital Tanah Merah – main public hospital
- Rural clinics and government health centers
- Pharmacies and private general clinics in town
Transport & Connectivity
- KTM Tanah Merah Railway Station – East Coast railway line
- Major highways: Federal Route 4, connecting to Jeli and Machang
- Local buses and taxis serve towns and surrounding mukims
- Easy access to Thailand border via Jeli–Rantau Panjang corridor
Tourism & Attractions
- Bukit Panau Hill Range:
- Ideal for jungle trekking, nature lovers, and scenic views
- Lubuk Tapah Recreational Forest – picnics, swimming, and relaxation
- Traditional Malay kampungs: village stays and cultural discovery
- Local mosques with unique Kelantanese wooden architecture
- Annual Islamic events, food expos, and district-level fairs
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Deep-rooted Malay-Islamic traditions
- Famous dishes:
- Nasi Kerabu Tanah Merah, Pulut Ayam, Laksam, Kuih Akok
- Community tazkirah programs, Quran competitions, and kenduri culture
- Local artisans produce herbal products, batik, wood crafts
Summary
Tanah Merah is Kelantan’s inland heartland, offering a unique blend of faith, farming, and future-forward development. As both a spiritual and transport crossroad, the district stands tall as a gateway between Kelantan’s interior villages and the broader national network—rooted in tradition, yet open to growth.