The Capital Pulse of Perlis — Administration, Simplicity & Community Harmony
Kangar, the capital town of Perlis, is a modest yet well-structured urban area that combines traditional Malay charm with modern administrative development. It serves as the governing heart, education center, and commercial hub of Malaysia’s smallest state.
Formation and Historical Background
- Kangar has existed as a river port town since the 17th century, used by traders and fishermen on the Perlis River
- Named after a type of tree (Pohon Kangar) that once grew abundantly near the riverbank
- Became the state capital of Perlis during British colonial administration and has retained its position post-independence
- Today, Kangar is a compact and peaceful state capital, known for organized infrastructure, safety, and quality of life
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Town Name | Kangar |
| State | Perlis |
| Status | Capital City of Perlis |
| Area | Approx. 2,619 hectares (26.19 sq. km) |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 60,000 |
| Local Authority | Majlis Perbandaran Kangar (MPK) |
| Postal Code | 01000 – 01009 |
Key Administrative Areas
- Pusat Bandar Kangar – Business and government offices
- Taman Guru, Taman Sena, Taman Mutiara – Residential zones
- Jalan Hospital, Jalan Raja Syed Alwi – Commercial and retail streets
- Kampung Bakau, Jejawi, Bintong – Semi-urban and village areas
Government and Public Services
| Institution / Role | Name / Description |
|---|---|
| Municipal Council (MPK) | Manages town planning, cleanliness, licensing |
| Perlis State Secretariat | Located in Kangar – State-level administration |
| Perlis State Assembly Building | Government and legislative meetings |
| District Police HQ & Fire Station | Located in Kangar city area |
Education & Institutions
- Sekolah Menengah Derma – Oldest school in Perlis
- Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM Arau) (nearby)
- Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG) Perlis Campus
- Various national, Chinese and religious schools
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Tuanku Fauziah (HTF) – Major government hospital
- Specialist clinics, dialysis centers, private medical care
- Government Klinik Kesihatan and mobile health services
Economy & Commerce
- Retail and groceries – Kangar Mall, The Store, local pasar
- Night markets (Pasar Malam) – Popular for food and crafts
- Banking and financial centers – All major banks present
- Agricultural products – Rice, Harumanis mango, vegetables
Transport & Connectivity
- Located along Federal Route 7 and Route 1
- 15 minutes to Arau KTM Station (rail connectivity)
- Bus terminal links to Alor Setar, Kuala Perlis, Padang Besar
- Nearby access to Thai border via Padang Besar
Tourism & Attractions
- Masjid Alwi – Historical mosque with Siamese architecture
- Perlis State Mosque (Masjid Negeri) – Friday prayers and Islamic events
- Taman Rekreasi Bukit Lagi – Jogging trails and greenery
- Shopping at Kangar Night Market & Pasar Besar Kangar
- Close access to Gua Kelam, Tasik Melati, and Padang Besar Market
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Strong Malay-Muslim culture, alongside Chinese and Thai-Malay heritage
- Famous food:
- Laksa Perlis, Nasi Lemuni, Ikan Bakar Kangar, Pulut Mangga (Harumanis), Cucur Udang
- Local events:
- Maulidur Rasul procession, state-level Quran recitation, Pesta Kangar
Summary
Kangar is a serene and organized capital city, offering a high quality of life, efficient governance, and a close-knit community feel. As the administrative and commercial core of Perlis, it provides everything one would expect from a state capital—just with more peace and less chaos.