The Rice Bowl of Malaysia and the Cradle of Malay Civilization
Kedah is one of Malaysia’s oldest states with a rich historical legacy, often referred to as the Cradle of Malay Civilization. Known for its lush paddy fields, ancient ruins, and the world-famous island of Langkawi, Kedah offers a unique blend of agriculture, heritage, and tourism.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State Name | Kedah (Jawi: قدح) |
| Capital | Alor Setar |
| Royal Capital | Anak Bukit |
| State Ruler (Sultan) | Sultan Sallehuddin ibni Almarhum Sultan Badlishah |
| Chief Minister (Menteri Besar) | Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor |
| Area | 9,425 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 2.3 million |
| Major Cities | Alor Setar, Sungai Petani, Langkawi, Kulim |
| Official Language | Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) |
| Religion | Islam (official), Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity |
| Districts (Daerah) | 12 |
Geographical Borders
- North: Thailand (Satun & Songkhla provinces)
- South: Penang & Perak
- East: Perlis & Thailand
- West: Andaman Sea
Administrative Districts in Kedah
- Kota Setar District
- Kuala Muda District
- Kubang Pasu District
- Kulim District
- Baling District
- Yan District
- Sik District
- Bandar Baharu District
- Padang Terap District
- Pendang District
- Langkawi District (island district)
- Pokok Sena District
Economy & Agriculture
- Primary Sector: Agriculture—especially rice production
- Kedah produces nearly half of Malaysia’s total rice supply
- Secondary sectors: rubber, palm oil, agro-tourism, and fisheries
- Electronics and manufacturing in Kulim Hi-Tech Park
- Langkawi: Duty-free zone and international tourism hub
Infrastructure & Connectivity
- Highways: North–South Expressway (PLUS), Butterworth–Kulim Expressway
- Airports: Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (Alor Setar), Langkawi International Airport
- Seaports: Langkawi Ferry Terminal
- Rail: KTM Komuter and ETS services in major towns
Education & Healthcare
- Universities: AIMST University, Albukhary International University
- Public institutions: Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) in Sintok
- Vocational & religious schools widely available
- Government and private hospitals in Alor Setar, Sungai Petani, and Langkawi
Tourism & Attractions
- Langkawi Island: Cable car, Sky Bridge, beaches, geopark
- Zahir Mosque: One of the oldest and most beautiful in Malaysia
- Bujang Valley Archaeological Site: Ancient Hindu-Buddhist civilization
- Gunung Jerai: Eco-tourism and hiking destination
- Rice Museum (Paddy Museum): Showcasing Kedah’s rice heritage
- Royal Museum & Balai Besar (Alor Setar Palace)
Cultural Highlights
- Deep-rooted Malay customs and Islamic values
- Traditional arts: Mak Yong, Wayang Kulit, Dikir Barat
- Cuisine: Nasi ulam, Gulai kawah, Laksa Kedah
- Kedah celebrates major Islamic festivals and traditional Malay harvest rituals
Summary
Kedah stands as Malaysia’s heritage-rich agricultural heartland—blending history, nature, and modern growth. From ancient civilizations to high-tech industries and the Langkawi tourism magnet, Kedah is a state where culture and development thrive side by side.