Pahang’s Tranquil Land of Agriculture, Waterfalls, and Faith
Maran District, located in the central region of Pahang, Malaysia, is a serene district known for its vast plantations, Islamic institutions, rural harmony, and hidden eco-tourism treasures. It is strategically placed between Temerloh and Kuantan, making it both a gateway and a green zone for agricultural and spiritual growth.
Formation and Historical Background
- Established: 1981
- Previously, Maran was part of the Temerloh District, but due to administrative and population growth, it was officially declared an independent district in 1981.
- The name “Maran” comes from a traditional village named Kampung Maran Lama, and the district is historically known for its pondok institutions and Islamic educational centers.
- The development of FELDA settlements played a significant role in shaping the district’s socio-economic structure.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Maran District |
| State | Pahang |
| District Capital | Maran Town |
| Area | Approx. 769 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 90,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Maran) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Maran (MDM) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
- Maran
- Chenor
- Luit
- Bukit Segumpal
Government and Notable Figures
| Position / Role | Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| District Officer (DO) | Tuan Haji Shahrulnizam Roslan | Head of administrative affairs |
| Member of Parliament (MP) | YB Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri Yaakob | Former Prime Minister of Malaysia |
| State Assemblyman (ADUN – Chenor) | YB Mujjibur Rahman Ishak | Pahang State Assembly |
| District Police Chief (OCPD) | Supt. Norzamri Abd Rahman | District police commander |
| FELDA Community Leader | Encik Azhar Musa | Prominent figure in FELDA Luit |
| Islamic Scholar (Ulama) | Ustaz Wan Harun bin Wan Daud | Noted for religious teaching in Chenor |
(Names based on latest available public data; to be confirmed for current updates.)
Key Towns and Areas
- Maran Town – Administrative center and service hub
- Chenor – Historic Islamic learning village along the river
- Luit – Agricultural heartland with large FELDA zones
- Bukit Segumpal – Remote area with rural and forest access
Economy & Livelihood
- Oil palm, rubber, fruit cultivation (especially durian)
- Strong FELDA presence for rural development
- Cottage industries – honey, kuih, woodcraft
- Traditional market economy and Islamic education-based services
Education & Religious Institutions
- Government schools & pondok/tahfiz centers
- Sekolah Menengah Agama Chenor – regional Islamic education hub
- Weekend madrasahs, Quran recitation programs, and mosque-based classes
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Jengka (serves part of Maran)
- Klinik Kesihatan in Maran, Luit, Chenor
- Mobile clinics for remote areas and FELDA blocks
Transport & Connectivity
- Located along Federal Route 2, near ECE (LPT Expressway)
- Bus and van connectivity to Kuantan, Temerloh, Jerantut
- Paved rural roads reaching FELDA and mukim centers
Tourism & Attractions
- Lubuk Yu Recreational Forest – waterfalls, picnic spots
- Jeram Bangkin Waterfall – hidden eco-gem
- Chenor Mosque – Islamic heritage and architecture
- Local durian and honey farms, homestays
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Strong Malay-Muslim rural identity
- Foods to try:
- Ikan Patin Masak Tempoyak, Nasi Kerabu Luit, Kuih Akok, Lemang
- Cultural life:
- Gotong-royong, tahlil, kenduri kampung, silat performances
Summary
Maran is Pahang’s spiritual and agricultural sanctuary, where faith meets farmland and nature heals the heart. With its peaceful villages, waterfalls, FELDA fields, and Islamic institutions, Maran is ideal for those seeking tranquility, knowledge, and community strength.