Kedah’s Highland Sanctuary of Lakes, Forests, and Tradition
Sik District, located in the central-eastern part of Kedah, is the state’s largest district by area, but among the most rural and naturally preserved. Surrounded by lush rainforests, mountains, and man-made lakes, Sik is a peaceful retreat rich in nature, Islamic tradition, and eco-agriculture.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Sik District |
| State | Kedah |
| District Capital | Sik Town |
| Area | Approx. 4,949 sq. km (largest district in Kedah) |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 100,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Sik) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Sik (MDSik) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Sik District consists of 3 mukims:
- Jeneri
- Sik
- Sok
Key Towns and Villages
- Sik Town – District capital and main commercial center
- Gulau, Jeneri, Beris, and Sok – Rural towns with agriculture and natural resources
- Kampung Tupai & Kampung Charok Nau – Traditional Malay villages
Geography & Nature
- Bordered by Baling, Padang Terap, Pendang, and Kuala Nerang (Perlis)
- Rich in forests, hills, and lakes
- Home to Muda River basin and Beris Dam, vital for water supply and irrigation
Economy & Livelihood
- Strongly agriculture-based economy:
- Rubber, oil palm, paddy, banana, durian, and herbal plants
- Freshwater fish farming and eco-agro tourism gaining traction
- Small-scale industries: dried food, natural herbs, forest products
- Beris Lake tourism has helped boost local income
Education & Healthcare
- Rural schools (SK, SMK), Islamic boarding schools (Maahad)
- Vocational institutes in Sik town
- Healthcare:
- Hospital Sik (public)
- Government clinics and outreach services in each mukim
Transport & Connectivity
- Connected via Federal Route 175 and 76 to Baling and Kuala Ketil
- No train station or airport—nearest airport: Sultan Abdul Halim (Alor Setar)
- Local buses and private vehicles are main transport
Tourism & Attractions
- Beris Lake (Tasik Beris):
- Boating, kayaking, lakeside chalets, and restaurants
- Beris Vineyard – rare tropical grape farm open to visitors
- Lata Mengkuang & Lata Batu Hampar: Hidden waterfalls for picnics
- Ulu Muda Eco Forest Reserve:
- Rainforest sanctuary with rare wildlife, birdwatching, and trekking
- Important conservation area for water catchment and biodiversity
- Masjid Sik Lama & Malay Traditional Houses
Culture & Food
- Predominantly Malay-Muslim population with deep Islamic traditions
- Local specialties:
- Ikan Talapia Tasik Bakar, Ubi Rebus & Sambal, Kuih Getas-Getas
- Forest-sourced honey, herbal drinks, and traditional kuih
- Religious festivals, tazkirah events, and village kenduri are common
Summary
Sik District is Kedah’s hidden natural gem, offering a tranquil, forested escape from city life. With its pristine lakes, agricultural charm, and eco-tourism potential, Sik represents the perfect balance between rural heritage and environmental preservation.