Selangor’s Agricultural Soul — Paddy, Palm & Peaceful Coasts
Sabak Bernam, located on the northwestern coast of Selangor, is a district that thrives on agriculture, coastal living, and rural traditions. With vast paddy fields, fishing villages, and peaceful towns like Sungai Besar and Sekinchan, this district offers a refreshing contrast to Selangor’s urban core.
Historical and Regional Background
- Historically part of the Malay Heartland, settled along rivers and coasts
- Developed through colonial-era rice irrigation systems and rubber/tin estates
- Known for its Malay kampungs, Chinese farming communities, and Orang Asli settlements
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Sabak Bernam District |
| State | Selangor |
| District Capital | Sabak Bernam Town |
| Major Towns | Sungai Besar, Sekinchan, Simpang Lima, Parit Baru |
| Area | Approx. 1,056 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 230,000 |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Sabak Bernam (MDSB) |
Administrative Areas
- Sabak Bernam (Town) – District HQ, administrative center
- Sungai Besar – Largest town, commercial & civic center
- Sekinchan – Paddy tourism, seafood, and Chinese farming community
- Pekan Parit Baru & Panchang Bedena – Agriculture and small industry zones
- Bagan Terap, Sungai Panjang – Malay kampungs, coastal villages
Government & Representation
| Position / Role | Name (2025 est.) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| District Officer (DO) | Tuan Mohd Izwan bin Mahmud | Manages land, development, agriculture |
| Yang Dipertua MDSB | En. Mohd Faizal bin Abu Bakar | Heads district council and rural planning |
| MP & ADUNs | Represent Sungai Besar, Sabak, Sekinchan |
Education & Institutions
- Government secondary and primary schools across all towns
- Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM) Sabak Bernam
- Vocational colleges and agricultural training centers
- Islamic boarding schools, Chinese independent schools
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Tengku Ampuan Jemaah (HTAJ) Sabak Bernam
- Klinik Kesihatan at Sungai Besar, Sekinchan, and Sabak Bernam
- Mobile and rural clinics in kampung areas
Economy & Livelihood
- Agriculture:
- Paddy rice farming (Sekinchan), oil palm, coconuts, corn, vegetables
- Fisheries:
- Coastal fishing in Bagan Sekinchan, seafood markets
- Agro-tourism:
- Paddy tours, harvest festivals, fruit farms
- Retail:
- Sungai Besar wet markets, Parit Baru shops, small factories
Transport & Connectivity
- Federal Route 5 (Jalan Sabak Bernam-Teluk Intan-Klang) – Main coastal road
- State roads connect towns and farming areas
- Limited bus services; e-hailing in larger towns
- Nearest rail: KTM Tanjung Malim (outside district)
Tourism & Attractions
- Sekinchan Paddy Fields & Rice Factory Tour
- Redang Beach (Pantai Redang Sekinchan) – Sunset & seafood
- Sky Mirror (Pasir Panjang) – Low tide sea reflection view
- Fishing villages & jetties – Fresh catch, photo spots
- Local museums, kampung homestays, temple visits
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Ethnic composition: Malay majority, strong Chinese (Sekinchan) presence, Indian and Orang Asli
- Food highlights:
- Nasi Ambeng, Ikan Bakar Sekinchan, Mee Udang Sungai Besar, Fresh Coconut Jelly, Kuih Melayu Tradisional
- Traditional events:
- Pesta Padi, Hari Raya kampung feasts, Hungry Ghost Festival, fishing community festivals
Summary
Sabak Bernam District is a quiet yet vibrant representation of Selangor’s rural roots, offering green fields, clean coasts, and cultural harmony. From paddy trails to prawn noodles, this district invites you to explore authentic Malaysian kampung life with a modern touch.