Terengganu’s Economic Powerhouse — Oil, Oceans & Opportunity
Kemaman, located at the southernmost tip of Terengganu, is a vibrant coastal district that serves as the state’s industrial and energy capital. With major ports, petrochemical plants, scenic beaches, and a rich fishing culture, Kemaman is where modern development and local traditions thrive side-by-side.
Historical & Economic Background
- Once a small fishing town, Kemaman transformed in the 1970s with the discovery of offshore oil & gas
- Became home to Petronas petroleum plants, Kerteh Industrial Park, and Kemaman Port
- Despite industrialization, it retains a strong coastal Malay identity and cultural heritage
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Kemaman District |
| State | Terengganu |
| District Capital | Chukai Town |
| Other Major Towns | Kerteh, Kemasik, Air Putih, Bandar Seri Bandi |
| Area | Approx. 2,535 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 210,000 |
| Local Authority | Majlis Perbandaran Kemaman (MPK) |
Key Areas & Subdistricts
- Chukai – Administrative and commercial heart
- Kerteh – Petrochemical hub, home to Petronas & oil refineries
- Kemasik – Beachside town with fishing heritage
- Air Putih, Tebak, Hulu Chukai – Rural and agricultural zones
Government & Representation
| Position / Role | Name (2025 est.) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| District Officer (DO) | Encik Azrul Hafiz bin Abdul Rahman | Oversees industry, planning, local affairs |
| Yang Dipertua MPK | Tuan Haji Rosli bin Ibrahim | Heads municipal administration |
| MP & ADUNs | Represent Cukai, Kemasik, Air Putih, Kijal |
Education & Institutions
- Petronas Training Institute (INSTEP) – Technical petroleum education
- Sekolah Menengah Teknik & Vokasional in Chukai & Kerteh
- Public & Islamic secondary schools, kindergartens
- MARA & private training centers, tahfiz institutions
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Kemaman – Government referral hospital
- Klinik Kesihatan Chukai, Kerteh, Kemasik
- Private medical clinics, offshore medical support units
Economy & Livelihood
- Petrochemical Industry:
- Kerteh Industrial Complex – Petronas, ExxonMobil, supply chain services
- Port Services:
- Kemaman Port – Cargo, oil-related shipping, trade
- Fishing & Aquaculture:
- Kemasik, Kuala Kemaman – Fresh catch, anchovy drying
- Retail & Food Trade:
- Chukai wet market, seafood processing, eateries
Transport & Connectivity
- East Coast Expressway (LPT2) access via Kerteh/Chukai exits
- Federal roads link to Kuantan (Pahang) and Dungun
- Kerteh Airport (for charter flights & Petronas use)
- Regular express buses to Kuala Lumpur and east coast towns
Tourism & Attractions
- Pantai Kemasik – Iconic seaside rock formation & beach
- Kuala Kemaman – Historic fishing port, seafood restaurants
- Bukit Singa – Coastal hiking with ocean view
- Mini Zoo Kemaman – Family attraction with local wildlife
- Ma’ Daerah Turtle Sanctuary – Turtle nesting and awareness programs
- River Cruise – Mangrove exploration along Sungai Kemaman
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Strong Malay-Muslim fishing community culture
- Signature foods:
- Sata (grilled fish cake), Otak-Otak, Ikan Bakar, Nasi Dagang, Keropok Lekor, Chukai’s famous curry mee
- Community traditions:
- Pesta Laut (Sea Festival), fishing boat blessings, Friday night markets
Summary
Kemaman District is the industrial engine of Terengganu—but it’s also a place of beaches, seafood, and sincerity. Whether you’re here for business, leisure, or local flavor, Kemaman welcomes all with its smoky grills, ocean breeze, and economic pulse.