Terengganu’s New Horizon — Education, Tourism & Coastal Growth
Kuala Nerus, carved out of the northern part of Kuala Terengganu in 2014, is Terengganu’s youngest and fastest-developing district. It serves as a hub for higher education, domestic & international air connectivity, and island tourism, making it a vital link between urban planning, academia, and eco-exploration.
Formation & Background
- Established on January 18, 2014, separated from Kuala Terengganu
- Includes important institutions, airport, and beach resorts
- Developed with a vision to decentralize governance and boost growth
- Quickly becoming a modern education-tourism corridor
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Kuala Nerus District |
| State | Terengganu |
| District Capital | Gong Badak (Administrative & educational hub) |
| Area | Approx. 397 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 220,000 |
| Local Authority | Majlis Bandaraya Kuala Terengganu (MBKT) (shared) |
Key Areas & Mukims
- Gong Badak – Universities, sports complex, housing
- Kuala Nerus Town – Administration, transport link
- Seberang Takir – Floating Mosque, coastal village
- Batu Rakit, Tepoh, Tok Jembal – Beaches, kampungs, eco-tourism
- Redang Island – World-class snorkeling/diving destination
Government & Representation
| Position / Role | Name (2025 est.) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| District Officer (DO) | Encik Mohd Zahari bin Mahmud | Leads district planning & services |
| Yang Dipertua MBKT | Dato’ Bandar Rozali Salleh | Also serves parts of Kuala Nerus |
| MP & ADUNs | Represent Bukit Tunggal, Seberang Takir, Tepoh, Batu Rakit |
Education & Institutions
- Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) – Marine science, environment
- Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA) – Islamic & health sciences
- Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG), MRSM Kuala Nerus
- Excellent public, private & religious schools
Healthcare Facilities
- Klinik Kesihatan Gong Badak, Batu Rakit, Seberang Takir
- Hospital access via HSNZ (Kuala Terengganu)
- University medical centers and private clinics
Economy & Livelihood
- Education & Services – Major contributor via universities
- Tourism:
- Redang Island, Floating Mosque, beach resorts
- Retail & Transport:
- Proximity to airport boosts commerce
- Fishing & Small Trade – Seberang Takir & Tok Jembal villages
Transport & Connectivity
- Sultan Mahmud Airport – Main airport of Terengganu
- Expressways to KT city and LPT2 highway
- Buses, e-hailing, and local vans serve urban & rural zones
- Jetty Merang – Boat terminal to Redang Island
Tourism & Attractions
- Pulau Redang – Coral reefs, diving, snorkeling, marine park
- Masjid Tengku Tengah Zaharah (Floating Mosque) – Iconic landmark
- Pantai Tok Jembal & Batu Rakit – Clean beaches & picnic spots
- Kampung Traditional Stay – Experience kampung life
- Terengganu Equestrian Resort, UMT Aquarium & Research Centers
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Islamic Malay heritage with strong educational presence
- Signature dishes:
- Nasi Dagang, Ikan Bakar, Lokan Panggang, Keropok Lekor, Nasi Minyak
- Youth events, religious lectures, cultural fairs by students and locals
Summary
Kuala Nerus District is Terengganu’s rising star—where future-ready education, island adventures, and Islamic values converge. Whether you’re diving into Redang’s waters or pursuing higher learning, Kuala Nerus is a vibrant, peaceful, and progressive Malaysian district.