Pahang’s Coastal Treasure of Islands, Fishing, and Nature
Rompin District, located in the southeastern tip of Pahang, Malaysia, borders Johor to the south and the South China Sea to the east. This coastal district is famed for being the gateway to Tioman Island, rich marine biodiversity, and a strong fishing-based economy. Rompin is a peaceful yet vibrant district offering eco-adventures, kampung culture, and coastal living.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Rompin District |
| State | Pahang |
| District Capital | Kuala Rompin |
| Area | Approx. 5,246 sq. km (one of the largest in Pahang) |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 120,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Rompin) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Rompin (MDR) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Rompin District is divided into 5 mukims:
- Endau
- Kuala Rompin
- Pontian
- Tioman
- Keratong
Key Towns and Areas
- Kuala Rompin – District capital and main fishing town
- Endau – Coastal area close to Johor border
- Tioman Island (Mukim Tioman) – World-renowned dive and tourism island
- Keratong – Inland plantation and FELDA community zone
- Tanjung Gemok – Ferry terminal to Tioman Island
Economy & Livelihood
- Fishing and seafood industry is the primary economic activity
- Deep-sea fishing, fish markets, shrimp and squid supply
- Eco-tourism and island tourism (Tioman Island, coastal stays)
- Palm oil plantations and FELDA settlements in Keratong
- Local SME businesses: dried fish, seafood snacks, homestays
Education & Institutions
- Public schools and Islamic education centers (SRA, Tahfiz)
- Vocational and agricultural training institutions
- Community learning centers in FELDA zones
- Marine-related education initiatives (coastal conservation)
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Rompin – district hospital with general services
- Klinik Kesihatan in Endau, Keratong, Kuala Rompin
- Island-based medical posts on Tioman
- Mobile health services in remote kampungs
Transport & Connectivity
- Connected via Federal Route 3 (coastal highway)
- Ferry terminal at Tanjung Gemok to Tioman Island
- Local buses, vans, and taxis in major towns
- Access to Mersing (Johor), Pekan, and Kuantan by road
Tourism & Attractions
- Tioman Island (Pulau Tioman):
- Diving, snorkeling, coral reefs, jungle trekking, island resorts
- Pantai Hiburan, Pantai Lanjut, Pantai Tanjung Gemok:
- Quiet beaches with sunset views and picnicking
- Endau-Rompin National Park (Pahang side):
- Trekking, waterfalls, rare flora and fauna
- Fishing festivals, seafood feasts, and night markets
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Strong Malay-Muslim coastal culture, mixed with Orang Asli heritage
- Signature dishes:
- Ikan Bakar Rompin, Sotong Goreng Tepung, Nasi Dagang, Keropok Lekor
- Traditional activities:
- Bot race, net mending, gotong-royong, kenduri kampung
- Handicrafts: woven fish traps, bamboo items, wood-carved souvenirs
Summary
Rompin District is Pahang’s serene southern coastal frontier, offering a mix of marine adventure, island charm, and rural simplicity. From the crystal-clear waters of Tioman to the fish markets of Kuala Rompin, this district thrives on its connection to the sea, nature, and tradition—making it perfect for eco-travelers, seafood lovers, and cultural explorers.