Kedah’s Commercial Powerhouse and Growing Urban Hub
Kuala Muda District, located in the southern part of Kedah, is the most populous district in the state and home to Sungai Petani—Kedah’s largest town. It is a thriving district driven by commerce, education, industry, and urban growth, with a strong historical and cultural presence along the Muda River.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Kuala Muda District |
| State | Kedah |
| District Capital | Sungai Petani |
| Area | Approx. 950 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Over 600,000 (largest in Kedah) |
| Parliamentary Seats | 3 (Sungai Petani, Merbok, and partial Jerai) |
| Local Authorities | Majlis Perbandaran Sungai Petani (MPSPK) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Kuala Muda District consists of 16 mukims, including:
- Sungai Petani
- Merbok
- Semeling
- Bujang
- Tikam Batu
- Gurun
- Kota Kuala Muda
- Bukit Meriam
- Pinang Tunggal
- Sidam Kiri & Kanan
Key Towns and Areas
- Sungai Petani: Urban and commercial center
- Gurun: Industrial and residential area
- Kota Kuala Muda: Coastal village with historical significance
- Merbok & Semeling: Cultural and educational zones
Economy & Industry
- Major sectors:
- Industrial zones in Sungai Petani and Gurun (electronics, textiles, packaging)
- Retail & services: Malls, business centers, healthcare
- Agriculture: Paddy fields, vegetables, fisheries
- Tourism & heritage (Bujang Valley)
Education & Healthcare
- Major institutions:
- Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Merbok Campus
- AIMST University (medical & biotech)
- Polytechnics, colleges, and private schools
- Healthcare:
- Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital (HSAH) – major public hospital
- Columbia Asia, Pantai Hospital, and multiple specialist clinics
Transport & Connectivity
- Excellent highway access:
- North–South Expressway (PLUS) via Sungai Petani North & South exits
- Federal Route 1 and Eastern bypasses
- KTM ETS & Komuter services at Sungai Petani Railway Station
- Bus terminals, taxis, Grab, and local transportation available
Tourism & Attractions
- Lembah Bujang (Bujang Valley):
- Malaysia’s oldest archaeological site with ancient Hindu-Buddhist temple ruins
- Pantai Merdeka:
- Popular beach destination with seafood and sunset views
- Taman Jubli Perak & Urban Parks in Sungai Petani
- Merbok River Estuary: Mangrove eco-tours and fishing
- Night markets, art murals, and street food zones
Culture & Food
- Multicultural society: Malays, Chinese, Indians
- Culinary highlights:
- Nasi Daging Utara, Laksa Kedah, Nasi Arab Sungai Petani
- Ikan Bakar Merdeka, Mee Udang Kota Kuala Muda
- Kuih Tradisional, Roti Canai Garing, Apam Balik
- Cultural festivals and community events observed widely
Summary
Kuala Muda District is Kedah’s vibrant economic engine, where urban growth meets historical roots. From ancient civilizations to modern malls, and paddy fields to industrial parks, Kuala Muda offers diverse opportunities for residents, tourists, and investors alike.