Pahang’s Riverside Hub of Commerce, Culture, and Cuisine
Temerloh District, located in the central region of Pahang, Malaysia, is a historically significant district positioned along the Pahang River, the longest river in Peninsular Malaysia. Known as the “Bandar Ikan Patin” (Town of Patin Fish), Temerloh thrives on its agriculture, riverine economy, and culinary heritage, making it one of the most vibrant and livable districts in the state.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Temerloh District |
| State | Pahang |
| District Capital | Temerloh Town |
| Area | Approx. 2,251 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 160,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Temerloh) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Perbandaran Temerloh (MPT) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Temerloh District includes 10 mukims, such as:
- Temerloh Town
- Mentakab
- Lanchang
- Kerdau
- Lebak
- Jenderak
- Sanggang
- Perak
- Semantan Hulu
- Ulu Cheka
Key Towns and Areas
- Temerloh Town – Administrative and cultural center
- Mentakab – Industrial and commercial town
- Lanchang – Eco-tourism and wildlife research zone
- Kerdau – Historical and rural agricultural town
- Jenderak & Semantan – Traditional Malay villages by the river
Economy & Livelihood
- Agriculture and Aquaculture:
- Paddy, fruits (durian, mangosteen), vegetables, and freshwater fish
- Ikan Patin (Pangasius catfish) farming and export industry
- Retail, markets, and SME development in Mentakab and Temerloh
- Agro-tourism and eco-parks in Lanchang and surrounding mukims
Education & Institutions
- Government primary and secondary schools in all mukims
- Religious schools (pondok, tahfiz, SRA)
- Vocational and agricultural colleges
- Wildlife research centers in Lanchang
Healthcare Facilities
- Hospital Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah (HoSHAS) – public referral hospital
- Klinik Kesihatan in Temerloh, Mentakab, Kerdau, Lanchang
- Private clinics, pharmacies, and mobile outreach programs
Transport & Connectivity
- Connected via East Coast Expressway (ECE) and Federal Route 2
- Mentakab Railway Station – KTM Intercity services
- Local bus, taxi, and Grab coverage
- Well-linked to Jerantut, Bera, and Kuala Lumpur
Tourism & Attractions
- Temerloh Riverfront Park & Hanging Bridge – scenic spot for walking and fishing
- Lanchang Deer and Orchid Farm
- Kuala Gandah National Elephant Conservation Centre (NECC):
- Elephant sanctuary and eco-education center
- Gunung Senyum Caves (near border with Jerantut):
- Limestone cave exploration and hiking
- Pasar Besar Temerloh (Main Market):
- Fresh ikan patin and local delicacies
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Deep-rooted Malay-Muslim culture with active Chinese and Indian communities
- Signature dishes:
- Ikan Patin Masak Tempoyak, Gulai Lemak Daun Keledek, Sambal Hitam Pahang
- Local snacks:
- Kuih Talam, Bahulu, Kuih Karas, Sira Pisang
- Weekly night markets, kenduri, Quran recitation, and traditional music (dikir barat)
Summary
Temerloh is the heart of Pahang’s riverside charm—a district where culture, commerce, and cuisine flow together. Whether you’re savoring patin fish by the river, exploring caves and elephant sanctuaries, or engaging in village life and Islamic heritage, Temerloh offers something truly authentic and enriching.