Kelantan’s Coastal Gem of Faith, Farming, and Heritage
Bachok District, located in the northeastern coastal area of Kelantan, Malaysia, is a district where Islamic values, agriculture, coastal beauty, and traditional kampung life come together. Known for its peaceful beaches, Islamic learning centers, and rural economy, Bachok plays a vital role in shaping the state’s cultural and spiritual landscape.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Bachok District |
| State | Kelantan |
| District Capital | Bachok Town |
| Area | Approx. 542 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 130,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Bachok) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Bachok (MDB) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Bachok District comprises 9 mukims, including:
- Bandar Bachok
- Perupok
- Gunong
- Tawang
- Bekelam
- Kubang Golok
- Repek
- Melawi
- Mahligai
Key Towns and Villages
- Bachok Town – District capital with administrative and retail centers
- Tawang & Perupok – Seaside areas with fishing and tourism
- Gunong & Repek – Inland agriculture and education-focused zones
- Melawi – Home to one of Kelantan’s most serene beaches
Economy & Livelihood
- Agriculture-based economy:
- Paddy, coconut, banana, and fruit farming
- Livestock: poultry and goats
- Fishing villages along coastal mukims
- Growing eco-tourism and local crafts industry
- Local markets and cottage industries (snacks, kuih, herbal products)
Education & Islamic Institutions
- University of Malaysia Kelantan (UMK Bachok Campus) – focused on entrepreneurship and Islamic studies
- Government schools and madrasah, pondok, and tahfiz centers
- Community-driven Quranic and Arabic learning programs
Healthcare
- Hospital Bachok (under development)
- Current services through Klinik Kesihatan Bachok and rural clinics
- Mobile health units in remote villages
Transport & Connectivity
- Accessible via Federal Route 3 (coastal highway)
- Connected to Kota Bharu (approx. 30 mins) and other districts
- Local buses, vans, and taxis available in town areas
Tourism & Attractions
- Pantai Irama (Beach of Melody):
- A long, clean beach ideal for swimming, picnics, and family time
- Pantai Kemayang & Pantai Kandis: Quiet beach alternatives
- Masjid Ar-Rahman Gunong: Unique hilltop mosque with scenic view
- Traditional Malay villages: Homestay experiences and local crafts
- UMK Bachok Campus Mosque & Islamic talks
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Rich Malay-Muslim traditions with strong community bonding
- Local foods to try:
- Nasi Dagang Bachok, Laksam, Kuih Akok, Nasi Berlauk Ikan Tongkol
- Ikan Bakar Pantai Irama, Kerabu Pucuk Paku
- Weekly pasar malam and Friday markets are community highlights
- Art forms: Mak Yong, Dikir Barat, wayang kulit (limited)
Summary
Bachok is Kelantan’s peaceful coastal sanctuary, where faith, farming, and family traditions define everyday life. With its serene beaches, Islamic learning environment, and welcoming kampungs, Bachok offers a truly authentic and tranquil Malaysian East Coast experience.