Kelantan’s Cross-Border Hub of Trade, Tradition, and Rural Strength
Pasir Mas District, located in western Kelantan, Malaysia, is a vibrant border district that connects Malaysia to Thailand through Rantau Panjang. With a population rooted in Islamic tradition, agriculture, trade, and cultural heritage, Pasir Mas is one of the state’s most dynamic regions for commerce and rural development.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Pasir Mas District |
| State | Kelantan |
| District Capital | Pasir Mas Town |
| Area | Approx. 614 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 260,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Pasir Mas) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Pasir Mas (MDPM) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Pasir Mas District consists of 9 mukims, including:
- Bandar Pasir Mas
- Rantau Panjang
- Kubang Gadong
- Bunut Susu
- Gual Periok
- Pengkalan Pasir
- Lubok Jong
- Kelewek
- Tebing Tinggi
Key Towns and Areas
- Pasir Mas Town – Administrative and transport hub
- Rantau Panjang – Malaysia-Thailand border town, duty-free shopping zone
- Bunut Susu, Gual Periok – Agricultural heartlands
- Lubok Jong & Kubang Gadong – Fast-developing suburbs
Economy & Livelihood
- Cross-border trade through Rantau Panjang
- Agriculture: Paddy fields, fruits (especially banana & jackfruit), and vegetables
- Livestock farming and small fish farms
- Retail, small industries, and duty-free shopping centers
- Weekly and night markets across the district
Education & Religious Institutions
- Government primary and secondary schools in all mukims
- Islamic schools (pondok, madrasah, tahfiz) widely spread
- Community-based Quranic and Fardu Ain classes
- Active religious NGOs and da’wah movements
Healthcare Services
- Hospital Pasir Mas – Government hospital
- Rural clinics (Klinik Kesihatan) in each major mukim
- Private medical and dental clinics in Pasir Mas Town
Transport & Connectivity
- Major road connections: Federal Route 3 and Route 4
- Railway station in Pasir Mas Town – part of KTM East Coast Line
- Bus terminals serving intercity and rural transport
- Close to Sungai Golok (Thailand) border crossing via Rantau Panjang
Tourism & Attractions
- Rantau Panjang Duty-Free Zone:
- Famous for Thai goods, textiles, food items, and snacks
- Lata Bukit Larek & Sungai Keladi Riverbanks – picnics and nature walks
- Traditional Malay kampung homestays
- Mosques with traditional Kelantanese architecture
- Cultural events during Ramadan, Maulidur Rasul, and Eid festivals
Culture & Local Food
- Strong Malay-Muslim traditions with Thai cultural influences
- Local specialties:
- Kerabu Mangga, Pulut Ayam, Nasi Tumpang, Laksam, Kuih Jala Mas
- Rantau Panjang-style Thai desserts and street snacks
- Dikir Barat and traditional Kelantanese music performed in local events
Summary
Pasir Mas is Kelantan’s gateway to cross-border commerce and cultural exchange. Rich in Islamic heritage, agriculture, and entrepreneurial spirit, it offers a unique blend of village charm and trade vibrancy, making it a district of endless community energy and opportunity.