Perak’s Coastal Jewel of Tourism, Navy, and Sustainable Growth
Manjung District, located in the southwestern region of Perak, is a fast-growing coastal area known for its naval base, marine tourism, and smart city development. From Pangkor Island’s white beaches to the bustling administrative capital Seri Manjung, this district balances natural beauty with national significance.
Formation and Historical Background
- Formed: Originally part of Dindings, a British-ceded territory in the 19th century under the Straits Settlements
- In 1973, the area was restructured and renamed as Manjung District
- Lumut became a strategic point during British rule due to its natural harbor
- Pangkor Island played an important role in colonial treaties (e.g., Pangkor Treaty of 1874)
- Now a center for tourism, maritime defense, and urban development
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Manjung District |
| State | Perak |
| District Capital | Seri Manjung |
| Tourism Hub | Lumut, Pangkor Island |
| Area | Approx. 1,167 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 300,000 |
| Local Authority | Majlis Perbandaran Manjung (MPM) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim / Towns)
- Seri Manjung – Administrative and commercial center
- Lumut – Royal Malaysian Navy base and ferry terminal
- Sitiawan – Industrial town and Chinese community hub
- Ayer Tawar – Agriculture and education zone
- Pangkor Island – Tourism hotspot
- Beruas – Historical and rural town
Government and Notable Figures
| Position / Role | Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| President of Manjung Municipal Council (MPM) | Tuan Khairul Amir Mohamad Zubir | Oversees district development |
| District Officer (DO) | Tuan Haji Mohd Akmal Bin Abdul Aziz | Administrative leadership |
| Member of Parliament (MP – Lumut) | YB Nordin Ahmad Ismail | Parliamentary representative |
| State Assemblymen (ADUN – various) | Include representatives from Pangkor, Pasir Panjang, Sitiawan | Cover mixed urban-rural zones |
| Navy Representative | Panglima Tentera Laut Diraja Malaysia | RMN Headquarters in Lumut |
| Tourism Advocate | Encik Tan Kai Leong | Pangkor tourism promoter |
Key Towns and Localities
- Seri Manjung – Government offices, shops, colleges
- Sitiawan – Industrial estate, Chinese temples, food culture
- Lumut – Jetty to Pangkor, naval base, waterfront tourism
- Pangkor Island – Resorts, beaches, duty-free status
- Ayer Tawar – Schools, agriculture, community life
- Beruas – Historical Sultanate site, museum
Economy & Livelihood
- Naval and Maritime Economy:
- Royal Malaysian Navy, shipyards, maritime logistics
- Tourism:
- Beach resorts, eco-islands, duty-free shopping
- Industry:
- Food processing, cement, hardware, construction
- Agriculture:
- Palm oil, coconut, fish farming, bird’s nest industry
Education & Institutions
- Government schools (primary to secondary)
- Private colleges and training centers
- Islamic and Chinese schools
- Vocational & naval academies near Lumut
- Polytechnic and teacher training institute in Seri Manjung
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Seri Manjung – Major public hospital
- Naval Medical Facility (Lumut)
- Private hospitals and numerous clinics
- Emergency services and marine medical support on Pangkor
Transport & Connectivity
- Access via Lebuhraya Ipoh–Lumut (Federal Route 5)
- Lumut Ferry Terminal – Connects to Pangkor Island
- Public bus services and taxis in urban areas
- Planned improvements in eco-tourism transit
Tourism & Attractions
- Pangkor Island – Teluk Nipah Beach, Dutch Fort, Fu Lin Kong Temple
- Teluk Batik – Local beach & picnic spot
- Lumut Waterfront – Promenade, markets, marine museum
- Beruas Museum – Ancient Malay Sultanate relics
- Mangrove river cruises, island hopping, snorkeling, seafood trails
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Multicultural mix: Malay, Chinese (Fujian, Hokkien), Indian
- Signature dishes:
- Mee Kari Sitiawan, Nasi Kukus Ayam Berempah, Pangkor grilled fish, Lumut satay
- Cultural events:
- Seafood festivals, Chinese opera, Maulidur Rasul, Chingay parades
Summary
Manjung District is a coastal powerhouse—where national defense, island charm, economic innovation, and seaside serenity all meet. From naval prestige to island pleasures, Manjung offers a balanced life for locals, entrepreneurs, and tourists alike.