Gateway to Perhentian Paradise & Islamic Knowledge
Besut, located at the northernmost point of Terengganu, is a vibrant blend of beach bliss, Islamic tradition, and agricultural heritage. Famous for the Perhentian Islands, Islamic boarding schools, and Kelantanese cultural influence, Besut is where faith and nature meet harmoniously.
Historical & Regional Background
- Strategically located bordering Kelantan, influences both dialect and customs
- A center of pondok education and Islamic scholarship
- Once part of Kelantan historically, but administered under Terengganu
- Developed around Kuala Besut port, now a major tourism gateway
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Besut District |
| State | Terengganu |
| District Capital | Kampung Raja |
| Tourism Gateway | Kuala Besut Town |
| Area | Approx. 1,232 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 150,000 |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Besut (MDB) |
Key Areas & Subdistricts
- Kampung Raja – Administrative capital
- Kuala Besut – Jetty to Perhentian Islands, tourism town
- Jertih – Main commercial hub, education and healthcare
- Pasir Akar, Bukit Kenak, Alor Lintang – Agricultural and residential zones
- Tembila – Home to Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA) campus
Government & Representation
| Position / Role | Name (2025 est.) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| District Officer (DO) | Tuan Haji Ahmad Shafie bin Ismail | Oversees land, tourism & education sector |
| Yang Dipertua MDB | Puan Nurul Jannah binti Mohd Yusof | Local council and coastal zoning management |
| MP & ADUNs | Represent Jertih, Kuala Besut, Hulu Besut |
Education & Institutions
- Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA) – Tembila Campus
- Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG) Sultan Mizan
- Multiple pondok and tahfiz schools (Ulama teaching tradition)
- Government secondary & primary schools in every mukim
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Besut (Jertih) – Main government hospital
- Klinik Kesihatan in Kampung Raja, Kuala Besut, Alor Lintang
- Private clinics and mobile health support in rural areas
Economy & Livelihood
- Tourism:
- Perhentian Islands, beaches, resorts, dive centers
- Agriculture:
- Paddy, coconut, watermelon, mango, chili plantations
- Fisheries:
- Kuala Besut fishing jetty and fish markets
- Craft & Retail:
- Songket weaving, kuih production, local handicrafts
Transport & Connectivity
- Main highway: Federal Route 3 (Jertih to Kota Bharu & Kuala Terengganu)
- Kuala Besut Jetty – Boats to Perhentian (20–40 min ride)
- Local buses, vans, and e-hailing in major towns
- Nearest airport: Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (Kota Bharu)
Tourism & Attractions
- Perhentian Islands – World-famous for snorkeling, diving, coral reefs
- Pantai Air Tawar & Pantai Bukit Keluang – Beach activities & family spots
- Lata Belatan & Lata Tembakah – Waterfalls and jungle trekking
- Bukit Keluang Hiking Trail – Breathtaking sea views
- Islamic Heritage Tours – Pondok centers, Quran classes, Maulid events
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Strong Islamic & Kelantan-Malay cultural blend
- Signature dishes:
- Nasi Kerabu, Ikan Celup Tepung (ICT), Kuih Akok, Sata, Keropok Lekor
- Celebrations:
- Tahlil kampung, pondok open days, fishing festivals, youth daurah (Islamic camp)
Summary
Besut District is a rare combination of natural paradise and spiritual refuge. Whether you’re diving into crystal-clear waters, walking through Islamic wisdom-filled kampungs, or savoring authentic Terengganu flavors, Besut is a destination that refreshes the soul and mind alike.