The Cradle of Malay-Islamic Tradition and Cultural Heritage
Kelantan, located in the northeastern part of Peninsular Malaysia, is widely known as the “Cradle of Malay Culture.” With its deep Islamic roots, unique arts and crafts, and slower-paced rural lifestyle, Kelantan offers a different, more traditional face of Malaysia.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State Name | Kelantan (Jawi: كلنتن) |
| Capital | Kota Bharu |
| State Ruler (Sultan) | Sultan Muhammad V (former King of Malaysia) |
| Chief Minister (Menteri Besar) | Mohd Nassuruddin Daud (PAS Party) |
| Area | 15,099 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 2.0 million |
| Major Cities | Kota Bharu, Pasir Mas, Tumpat, Tanah Merah |
| Official Language | Malay (Kelantanese dialect widely spoken) |
| Religion | Islam (official), with small Buddhist and Christian minorities |
| Districts (Daerah) | 10 |
Geographical Borders
- North & East: South China Sea
- South: Terengganu
- West: Perak
- Northwest: Thailand (Narathiwat province)
Administrative Districts in Kelantan
- Kota Bharu District
- Pasir Mas District
- Pasir Puteh District
- Tumpat District
- Bachok District
- Tanah Merah District
- Machang District
- Kuala Krai District
- Gua Musang District
- Jeli District
Culture & Religion
- Kelantan is considered Malaysia’s most conservative Islamic state
- Strong implementation of Shariah-compliant governance
- Traditional dress, modesty, and religious practice are deeply observed
- Local dialect (Kelantanese Malay) is distinct and widely used
- Rich in Islamic education: Pondok schools and religious boarding institutions
Economy & Livelihood
- Agriculture-based economy: paddy, rubber, tobacco, fruits
- Cottage industries: batik, songket weaving, kite-making (wau)
- Fishing and small-scale trade
- Cross-border trade with Thailand
- Tourism (Islamic heritage, beaches, forests) growing gradually
Infrastructure & Transport
- Roads: Connected to other states via East–West Highway
- Airports: Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (Kota Bharu)
- Train Services: KTM (through Tumpat)
- Seaports: Fishing and trade docks at Tumpat and Kuala Besar
- Public transport primarily by bus and vans; taxis in urban zones
Education & Healthcare
- Islamic universities and pondok schools throughout the state
- Higher education institutions: UMK (Universiti Malaysia Kelantan)
- Health facilities: Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II, various clinics
- Traditional healing and Islamic medical centers are common
Tourism & Attractions
- Wau Festival: Traditional kite festival
- Pantai Cahaya Bulan (Moonlight Beach)
- Wat Photivihan: Giant reclining Buddha statue (Tumpat)
- Handicraft Village & Craft Museum (Kota Bharu)
- Gunung Stong State Park (waterfalls & jungle trekking)
- Floating Mosque (Masjid Ar-Rahman) in Kuala Krai
Food & Cuisine
- Nasi Kerabu – Blue rice with herbs and dried fish
- Nasi Dagang – Coconut milk rice with tuna curry
- Laksam – Rice noodles with creamy fish sauce
- Kuih-muih – Colorful traditional cakes
- Strong Thai influence in flavors due to border proximity
Summary
Kelantan stands as a unique gem of Malaysia—upholding deep Islamic values, traditional Malay customs, and a distinct cultural identity. With its heritage arts, religious institutions, and serene way of life, Kelantan is a reflection of Malaysia’s historical soul.