The Northern Gem of Malaysia — Small State, Rich Soul
Perlis Indera Kayangan, the smallest state in Malaysia, lies at the northernmost tip of Peninsular Malaysia, bordering Thailand (Satun Province) and Kedah. Despite its size, it is rich in cultural heritage, agricultural productivity, and cross-border significance.
Formation and Historical Background
- Originally part of Kedah Sultanate, Perlis became a separate kingdom in 1843 under Siamese influence
- Was part of the Unfederated Malay States, and later integrated into Malaysia upon independence in 1957
- Its small size (approx. 821 sq. km) gives it a unique administrative closeness and efficient governance
- The capital, Kangar, is a modest but well-developed town; Arau serves as the royal capital
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State Name | Perlis Indera Kayangan |
| Capital City | Kangar |
| Royal Capital | Arau |
| Area | Approx. 821 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 270,000 |
| Official Language | Bahasa Malaysia |
| Time Zone | MYT (UTC+8) |
Government and Leadership
| Position | Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Raja of Perlis | Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail | 12th Raja of Perlis |
| Raja Muda (Crown Prince) | Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra | Actively involved in youth & Islamic affairs |
| Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) | YAB Mohd Shukri Ramli | Head of Perlis state government (PAS leader) |
| State Secretary | En. Mohd Hafiz Hamzah | Oversees state administration |
Administrative Divisions
Perlis consists of 1 district subdivided into 3 main administrative zones (mukims):
- Kangar – Capital city, government and commerce
- Arau – Royal town, education, transport hub
- Padang Besar – Border town with Thailand, trade and tourism
Economy & Livelihood
- Agriculture:
- Paddy (rice) farming, sugarcane, rubber, mangoes (Harumanis)
- Fishing & Livestock:
- River and coastal fishing, goat and cattle farms
- Trade:
- Border trade via Padang Besar (Thailand–Malaysia route)
- Education & Civil Services:
- UMS Perlis campus, IPG, MARA institutes in Arau and Kangar
Education & Institutions
- Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) – Technical and engineering university
- Institut Pendidikan Guru Perlis (IPG)
- Vocational schools, tahfiz centers, religious and national schools
- Active Islamic education network in rural mosques
Healthcare
- Hospital Tuanku Fauziah (Kangar) – Main public hospital
- Klinik Kesihatan in every major mukim
- Women & child health clinics and mobile units for rural areas
Transport & Connectivity
- Federal Route 7 and 1 connect to Kedah and Penang
- North–South Expressway (PLUS) access through Changlun
- Padang Besar Railway Station – ETS, Komuter, and Thai rail link
- Local buses, taxis, and border e-hailing services
Tourism & Attractions
- Gua Kelam (Cave of Darkness) – Adventure walkways and history
- Perlis State Park – Wildlife, limestone hills, jungle trails
- Wang Kelian View Point – Sunset and market experiences
- Tasik Melati Recreational Park, Snake & Reptile Farm
- Padang Besar Border Market – Cross-border shopping
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Strong Malay heritage with Siamese, Thai, and Chinese influences
- Popular dishes:
- Ikan Bakar Perlis, Pulut Mangga, Laksa Perlis, Nasi Ulam, Harumanis mango dishes
- Cultural identity:
- Royal ceremonies, Thai-inspired festivals, Islamic traditions
- Famous for Harumanis mango season (April–June)
Summary
Perlis may be Malaysia’s smallest state, but it offers a big cultural heart, peaceful countryside, and strategic significance. Whether exploring caves, border towns, or royal history, visitors will find Perlis rich in authenticity, flavor, and calm.