Coastal Serenity, Fishing Legacy, and Political Prominence
Bagan Datuk District, located at the southwestern tip of Perak, is the youngest district in the state, officially established in 2016. Known for its peaceful fishing villages, coconut plantations, and close connection to the Straits of Malacca, it offers a unique blend of natural simplicity and national importance.
Formation and Historical Background
- Established: 15 June 2016
- Formed by carving out the southwestern portion of Hilir Perak District
- Named after the town of Bagan Datuk, a traditional coastal Malay fishing settlement
- Holds political significance as the hometown of Malaysia’s former Deputy Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi
- Gradually developing into a coastal agro-economy and eco-tourism destination
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Bagan Datuk District |
| State | Perak |
| District Capital | Bagan Datuk |
| Area | Approx. 951 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 85,000 |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Bagan Datuk (MDBD) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim / Towns)
- Bagan Datuk Town – Administrative and central hub
- Hutan Melintang – Fishing center and local commerce
- Rungkup – Coconut and oil palm estates
- Sungai Tiang & Sungai Sumun – Small kampungs with aquaculture
- Beting Beras Basah – Coastal point with royal historical value
Government and Notable Figures
| Position / Role | Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| District Officer (DO) | Tuan Haji Mohd Yusri bin Zainal | Manages land, rural and local development |
| President of District Council (MDBD) | Encik Khairul bin Abdul Majid | Heads the newly formed local council |
| Member of Parliament (MP – Bagan Datuk) | Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi | Former Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia |
| State Assemblymen (ADUN – Rungkup, Hutan Melintang) | Represent rural and coastal zones | |
| Community Leader | Haji Amran Baharuddin | Promotes local fishing & community welfare |
Key Towns and Areas
- Bagan Datuk – Admin offices, river mouth, jetty point
- Hutan Melintang – Wet markets, fishing ports, workshops
- Rungkup – Large coconut plantations, traditional crafts
- Sungai Tiang/Sungai Sumun – Quiet kampung life, water-based economy
- Beting Beras Basah – Place where Perak’s first sultan was said to have landed
Economy & Livelihood
- Fishing and Aquaculture:
- Marine and river fishing, shrimp and mussel farming
- Agriculture:
- Coconut estates, oil palm, bananas, and chili
- Traditional Industries:
- Coconut-based products (copra, oil), dried fish, woven mats
- Retail and rural markets in Hutan Melintang and Rungkup
Education & Institutions
- Government schools and religious madrasahs
- Vocational training linked to agriculture and fisheries
- Community learning centers in rural villages
- Plans underway for agro-institute development
Healthcare Facilities
- Klinik Kesihatan in Bagan Datuk, Hutan Melintang, Rungkup
- Small private clinics and rural health outreach programs
- Nearest hospital: Hospital Teluk Intan (approx. 45 minutes)
Transport & Connectivity
- Connected via Federal Route 69 and state roads
- Regular buses from Teluk Intan and neighboring towns
- Small jetties for local boat transport and island access
- Plans for Bagan Datuk coastal development and tourism pier
Tourism & Attractions
- Beting Beras Basah – Historical site linked to Perak royalty
- Fishing Villages – Authentic kampung life and seafood experiences
- River Cruise & Mangrove Forests – Nature tours in Sungai Tiang
- Coconut plantation tours – Agro-tourism potential
- Seafood eateries in Hutan Melintang – Famous for fresh ikan bakar
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Predominantly Malay-Muslim community with strong fishing heritage
- Signature foods:
- Ikan Bakar, Udang Galah Lemak Cili Api, Nasi Lemuni, Keropok Lekor, Coconut-based kuih
- Traditions:
- Majlis kenduri laut, Maulidur Rasul processions, village gatherings
Summary
Bagan Datuk District is a quiet coastal frontier with a proud fishing legacy and national relevance. Still developing, it holds great potential for eco-tourism, agro-economy, and cultural exploration—while maintaining the soul of rural Malaysia.