Pahang’s Highland Gateway of Fresh Air, Farms, and Family Escapes
Bentong District, located in the western region of Pahang, Malaysia, is a district known for its cool highland retreats, agro-tourism, and cultural diversity. With its close proximity to Kuala Lumpur, Bentong has become a top destination for weekend getaways and is home to the world-renowned Genting Highlands, Janda Baik, and Bukit Tinggi.
Formation and Historical Background
- Established: Colonial-era district, formally structured under British Malaya in the late 19th century
- Bentong town was originally a tin mining and rubber tapping settlement.
- The name “Bentong” is believed to come from the word “Ban Untung,” a river settlement that later evolved into the administrative name.
- With development of roads and railways, it became a strategic border town between Selangor and Pahang.
- The area flourished due to tin, rubber, and later evolved into a modern agricultural and tourism-based district.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Bentong District |
| State | Pahang |
| District Capital | Bentong Town |
| Area | Approx. 1,831 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 115,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Bentong) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Perbandaran Bentong (MPB) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Bentong District consists of 4 main mukims:
- Bentong Town
- Sabai
- Pelangai
- Karak
Government and Notable Figures
| Position / Role | Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| District Officer (DO) | Tuan Haji Mohd Zulkifli Hashim | Administrative head of Bentong District |
| Member of Parliament (MP) | YB Young Syefura Othman (Rara) | MP for Bentong, representing DAP |
| State Assemblyman (ADUN – Pelangai) | YB Amizar Abu Adam | Pahang State Assembly |
| District Police Chief (OCPD) | Supt. Zaiham Mohd Kahar | Law and order in Bentong |
| Local Community Figure | Dato’ Lim Swee Tin | Cultural activist and poet from Bentong |
| Tourism Promoter | Puan Noraini Janda Baik | Founder of eco-lodge in Janda Baik |
Key Towns and Areas
- Bentong Town – Administrative and economic center
- Karak – Growing satellite town and agricultural hub
- Janda Baik – Highland retreat village, famous for homestays and Islamic programs
- Bukit Tinggi – French-themed resort and eco-park
- Pelangai & Sabai – Rural agricultural areas
Economy & Livelihood
- Agro-based economy:
- Durian (Musang King), ginger, vegetables, honey, and goat milk
- Tourism & Hospitality:
- Resorts, homestays, farm visits, and river retreats
- Cottage industries:
- Ice cream, tofu, soy milk, traditional snacks
- Market and SME development in Karak and Bentong towns
Education & Institutions
- Government schools and religious institutions
- Tahfiz and pondok centers, especially in Janda Baik
- Technical colleges and community education hubs
- Agro-entrepreneurship workshops and tourism training
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Bentong – Public district hospital
- Klinik Kesihatan in Karak, Sabai, Pelangai, and Janda Baik
- Private medical and dental clinics throughout urban areas
Transport & Connectivity
- Easily accessible via Karak Highway (E8 / LPT) from Kuala Lumpur
- Linked by Federal Route 68 & Route 9
- Local buses and vans connect Bentong to Kuala Lipis, Temerloh, Raub
- Tourist transport (vans, e-hailing) in Genting and Janda Baik
Tourism & Attractions
- Genting Highlands:
- Casinos, theme parks, hotels, shopping malls
- Janda Baik:
- Riverside homestays, Islamic retreats, eco-activities
- Bukit Tinggi (Colmar Tropicale):
- French village resort, botanical gardens, Japanese Tea House
- Bentong Hot Spring, Chamang Waterfall
- Bentong Walk – weekend market with local food, crafts, and music
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Diverse communities: Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Orang Asli
- Famous local foods:
- Tofu Pok, Bentong Ginger Chicken, Ikan Patin Masak Tempoyak, Lemang, Durian Cendol
- Cultural activities:
- Pasar Malam, Chinese temple festivals, Kenduri Kampung, Silat and Kuda Kepang demos
Summary
Bentong is Pahang’s western gem, a district that brings together cool air, cultural warmth, and entrepreneurial energy. Whether you’re escaping to the hills, tasting local produce, or diving into traditional hospitality, Bentong welcomes you with a blend of heritage, nature, and heart.