Kedah’s Industrial Gateway with Tech, Tradition, and Tranquility
Kulim District, located in the southeastern corner of Kedah, Malaysia, is one of the state’s most industrially advanced districts. Bordering Penang, it forms part of the Greater Penang Conurbation, making it a major player in electronics manufacturing, agriculture, and modern urban development.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Kulim District |
| State | Kedah |
| District Capital | Kulim Town |
| Area | Approx. 765 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 300,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Kulim–Bandar Baharu) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Perbandaran Kulim (MPKK) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Kulim District consists of 15 mukims, including:
- Kulim Town
- Bagan Sena
- Junjung
- Karangan
- Mahang
- Padang Meha
- Sedim
- Terap
- Sungai Seluang
- Sungai Ular
- Lunas
- Sungai Kob
Key Towns and Areas
- Kulim Town: Administrative and urban center
- Lunas: Rapidly growing township with residential and retail development
- Hi-Tech Park (Kulim Hi-Tech Park): One of Malaysia’s top electronics & semiconductor hubs
- Karangan & Mahang: Agricultural zones and eco-tourism areas
Economy & Industry
- Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP):
- Hosts major semiconductor, electronics, solar panel, and biotech firms
- Global MNCs such as Intel, Infineon, First Solar have operations here
- Agriculture: Rubber, oil palm, fruits, and vegetables
- Small-scale industries: Food processing, textiles, woodwork
- Growing in property development and commercial services
Education & Healthcare
- Public schools and private institutions throughout the district
- Politeknik Kulim, vocational and technical training centers
- Healthcare:
- Kulim Hospital – main government facility
- Multiple private clinics, dental centers, and pharmacies
Transport & Connectivity
- Butterworth–Kulim Expressway (BKE): Connects Kulim to Penang and North–South Expressway
- Federal Route 4 & 67
- Proximity to Penang Bridge and Penang International Airport (approx. 45 mins)
- Buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services available across the district
Tourism & Attractions
- Tree Top Walk Sungai Sedim:
- One of the world’s longest rainforest canopy walks
- Hiking, white-water rafting, and camping
- Lunas Old Town & Market Street:
- Colonial-era shoplots, local eateries, and cultural landmarks
- Junjung Waterfall & Sungai Teruna Recreation Park
- Eco-farms and fruit orchards in Mahang and Karangan
- Local mosques, temples, and annual cultural festivals
Culture & Food
- Multiracial community: Malays, Chinese (mostly Hokkien), Indians
- Local delicacies:
- Char Koay Teow Lunas, Roti Canai Mahang
- Nasi Kandar Kulim, Kuih Tradisi, Mee Rebus Karangan
- Morning and night markets (pasar pagi & pasar malam) are local favorites
Summary
Kulim District is Kedah’s forward-looking industrial frontier, where technology meets tradition, and rural charm meets urban convenience. Its strategic location next to Penang and its high-tech profile make Kulim a vital hub for Malaysia’s economic and regional development.