Malaysia’s Largest State of Nature, Mountains, and Mining Heritage
Pahang is the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia, renowned for its rainforests, national parks, hill resorts, and natural resources. It boasts breathtaking landscapes like Cameron Highlands, Fraser’s Hill, and Taman Negara, and is home to many indigenous Orang Asli communities.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State Name | Pahang (Jawi: ڤهڠ) |
| Capital | Kuantan |
| Royal Capital | Pekan |
| State Ruler (Sultan) | Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah (also former King of Malaysia) |
| Chief Minister (Menteri Besar) | Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail (BN–UMNO) |
| Area | 35,840 sq. km (largest in Peninsular Malaysia) |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 1.8 million |
| Major Cities/Towns | Kuantan, Bentong, Temerloh, Raub, Jerantut |
| Official Language | Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) |
| Religion | Islam (official), Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Indigenous beliefs |
| Districts (Daerah) | 11 |
Geographical Borders
- North: Kelantan and Terengganu
- South: Negeri Sembilan and Johor
- West: Perak and Selangor
- East: South China Sea (longest coastline in Peninsular)
Administrative Districts
- Kuantan District
- Pekan District
- Rompin District
- Jerantut District
- Temerloh District
- Bera District
- Maran District
- Lipis District
- Raub District
- Bentong District
- Cameron Highlands District
Natural Wonders & Eco-Tourism
- Taman Negara National Park: Malaysia’s oldest rainforest & top eco-destination
- Cameron Highlands: Tea plantations, strawberry farms, cool weather
- Fraser’s Hill: Colonial hill resort with nature trails and bird watching
- Cherating Beach: Surfing and sea turtle conservation
- Lake Bera & Lake Chini: UNESCO biosphere reserves
- Gunung Tahan: Tallest peak in Peninsular Malaysia
Economy & Resources
- Strong in mining (bauxite, tin, gold) and natural gas
- Agriculture: rubber, oil palm, cocoa, tea, fruits
- Tourism driven by nature and hill retreats
- Fisheries and aquaculture along the East Coast
- Industrial zones in Kuantan (including Malaysia–China Kuantan Industrial Park)
Infrastructure & Connectivity
- Highways: East Coast Expressway (LPT), Federal Route 2
- Airport: Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport (Kuantan)
- Ports: Kuantan Port – major logistics hub for east coast
- Rail: KTM services including East Coast line
- Upcoming East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) to boost logistics and tourism
Education & Healthcare
- Universities: Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP), IIUM Kuantan campus
- Colleges: Polytechnics, vocational & agricultural institutes
- Major Hospitals: Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital (Kuantan), private medical centers
- Orang Asli medical outreach and rural health services active
Tourism & Cultural Attractions
- Pahang Royal Museum (Pekan)
- Sultan Ahmad Shah State Mosque (Kuantan)
- Sungai Lembing Mining Museum
- Cultural villages & Orang Asli settlements
- Pasar Besar Kuantan for traditional crafts and food
- Annual events: Pahang River Rafting Festival, Tea & Flower Fest (Cameron Highlands)
Culture & Cuisine
- Ethnic diversity: Malays, Chinese, Indians, Orang Asli
- Traditional dishes:
- Gulai Tempoyak Ikan Patin (fermented durian fish curry)
- Sata (fish cakes)
- Nasi Kebuli
- Puding Raja (royal dessert)
- Strong influence from royal court culture and rural Malay heritage
Summary
Pahang is a majestic state where mountains meet the sea, and tradition coexists with modern industry. Its eco-tourism, royal heritage, rich natural resources, and indigenous culture make it one of Malaysia’s most valuable and diverse destinations.