Kelantan’s Highland Gateway of Nature, Knowledge, and Tranquility
Jeli District, located in the western highlands of Kelantan, Malaysia, is a peaceful rural district known for its cool hills, waterfalls, fruits, Islamic values, and strategic location bordering Perak and Thailand. Once part of Tanah Merah, Jeli became an independent district in 1982, and has since developed into a green zone for education, eco-tourism, and agriculture.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Jeli District |
| State | Kelantan |
| District Capital | Jeli Town |
| Area | Approx. 1,372 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 80,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Jeli) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Jeli (MDJ) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Jeli District includes 3 mukims:
- Jeli
- Batu Melintang
- Kuala Balah
Key Towns and Areas
- Jeli Town – Administrative and commercial hub
- Batu Melintang – Near Perak border; educational zone
- Kuala Balah – Known for natural landscapes and forest produce
- Air Lanas – Growing suburban area with colleges and training centers
Geography & Climate
- Surrounded by Banjaran Titiwangsa (Titiwangsa Range)
- Cooler highland climate with frequent rain and lush vegetation
- Multiple rivers and waterfalls flow from forest reserves
Economy & Livelihood
- Agriculture-based economy:
- Rubber, oil palm, durian, rambutan, mangosteen, and vegetables
- Eco-tourism and jungle resources (herbs, bamboo, honey)
- Border trade and retail activities at entry routes from Perak
- Home-based food processing and traditional snack industries
Education & Islamic Focus
- Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) Campus – Jeli
- MARA Junior Science College (MRSM Jeli), government schools
- Tahfiz centers, suraus, and mosque-based education common
- Youth engagement in Quranic learning, science, and agriculture
Healthcare Services
- Hospital Jeli – public hospital with essential services
- Rural health clinics and outreach programs for villagers
- Pharmacies and private clinics available in main town
Transport & Accessibility
- Connected by East–West Highway (Federal Route 4)
- Key transit point between Kelantan–Perak–Penang
- Public buses and express services to Kota Bharu, Gerik, and Baling
- Private vehicles and motorcycles are commonly used
Tourism & Attractions
- Lata Janggut & Lata Renyok Waterfalls:
- Scenic picnic spots with clear water and jungle trails
- Gunung Reng (Reng Hill Cave):
- Mysterious limestone outcrop with folklore significance
- UMK Eco-Trail and Agro Park
- Weekly pasar tani & kampung homestays
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Deeply traditional Malay-Muslim lifestyle
- Famous for:
- Pulut Durian, Ikan Air Tawar Bakar, Nasi Berlauk Jeli
- Kuih Puteri Mandi, Lemang, Ubi Rebus with Sambal Hijau
- Festivals celebrated with kenduri, Quranic recitation, and gotong-royong
- Local craft: woven mats, baskets, bamboo decor
Summary
Jeli is Kelantan’s green gateway to the west, where knowledge, nature, and kampung peace converge. With its forests, fruit farms, and faith-centered communities, Jeli offers a refreshing alternative for those seeking tranquility, eco-tourism, and academic excellence in rural Malaysia.