The Green Heart of Terengganu — Lakes, Faith & Forests
Hulu Terengganu, situated in the central-northeastern interior of the state, is a district rich in natural wonders, Islamic values, and historical depth. With its dense rainforests, majestic waterfalls, and the vast Tasik Kenyir, Hulu Terengganu is the perfect escape for those seeking eco-tourism, spirituality, and serenity.
Historical & Cultural Background
- Historically home to Orang Asli settlements and Malay inland tribes
- Developed around Kuala Berang, the first capital of Terengganu
- Place of discovery of the Batu Bersurat Terengganu, earliest Islamic inscription in Malaysia
- District continues to promote Islamic education and nature conservation
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Hulu Terengganu District |
| State | Terengganu |
| District Capital | Kuala Berang |
| Area | Approx. 3,857 sq. km (largest district in Terengganu) |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 110,000 |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Hulu Terengganu (MDHT) |
Key Towns & Subdistricts
- Kuala Berang – District HQ, administrative and educational center
- Ajil – Town with schools, markets, mosques
- Kenyir Zone – Lake access point, tourism gateway
- Manir, Hulu Telemong, Kuala Ping – Villages and forest edge communities
Government & Leadership
| Position / Role | Name (2025 est.) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| District Officer (DO) | Encik Mohd Azmi bin Razali | Manages land, eco-tourism, development |
| Yang Dipertua MDHT | Tuan Haji Ibrahim bin Osman | Local council and forest governance |
| MP & ADUNs | Represent Kuala Berang, Telemong, Ajil |
Education & Institutions
- Public secondary & primary schools in every mukim
- Islamic boarding schools, Maahad Tahfiz, and pondok pesantren systems
- Teacher training center and religious education hubs
- Quran memorization and tafsir institutions
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Hulu Terengganu (Kuala Berang) – Main hospital
- Klinik Kesihatan at Ajil, Kuala Ping, and Manir
- Rural health clinics and mobile medical units
Economy & Livelihood
- Eco-tourism & Adventure:
- Boating, trekking, waterfalls, jungle stays
- Farming:
- Rubber, banana, vegetables, livestock
- Fisheries & Freshwater Aquaculture in Tasik Kenyir
- Handicrafts & Cottage Industry:
- Wood carving, songket, herbal products
Transport & Accessibility
- East Coast Highway (LPT2) – Accessible via Ajil exit
- Local buses to Kuala Terengganu, Dungun
- Boat transport for Kenyir Islands & Orang Asli communities
- Roadways to Kelantan and southern Terengganu
Tourism & Attractions
- Tasik Kenyir (Kenyir Lake) – Malaysia’s largest man-made lake
- Water chalets, fishing, jungle trekking, herbal parks, waterfalls
- Sekayu Waterfall & Forest Park – Family nature retreat
- Pengkalan Gawi Jetty – Main gateway to Kenyir activities
- Batu Bersurat Site (Inscription Stone) – Islamic history landmark
- Elephant Conservation Center (NECC) – Wildlife awareness program
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Deep Islamic cultural setting with some Orang Asli and rural influences
- Famous foods:
- Nasi Ulam, Gulai Kawah, Ikan Sungai Bakar, Durian Kenyir, Kuih Tradisi
- Traditional lifestyles:
- Kampung gotong-royong, pondok learning, Quran khatam events, nature-based healing
Summary
Hulu Terengganu District is the lungs and soul of Terengganu—where spiritual depth meets ecological richness. If you’re looking to pray under the stars, kayak through green waters, or just embrace the quiet side of life, Hulu Terengganu is your window into Malaysia’s peaceful heartland.