The Eastern Jewel of Malaysia — Faith, Islands, and Coastal Heritage
Terengganu Darul Iman, situated on the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, is a state known for its strong Islamic identity, pristine beaches, coral islands, and rich traditional crafts. With iconic landmarks like Crystal Mosque, Redang Island, and a strong Malay-Muslim cultural base, Terengganu is a treasure trove of both natural beauty and spiritual serenity.
Historical & Cultural Background
- Terengganu was once a vassal state of Srivijaya, later a Sultanate established in the 18th century
- It was among the earliest states to accept Islam and known for the discovery of the Terengganu Inscription Stone (Batu Bersurat)—Malaysia’s oldest Islamic inscription
- Gained independence with Malaya in 1957
- Today, it remains a culturally conservative state with deep-rooted Malay-Islamic values
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State Name | Terengganu Darul Iman |
| Capital City | Kuala Terengganu |
| Royal Capital | Also Kuala Terengganu |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 1.3 million |
| Area | Approx. 13,035 sq. km |
| Time Zone | MYT (UTC +8) |
| Official Religion | Islam (with Syariah-based state administration) |
| Official Language | Bahasa Malaysia (Terengganu dialect widely spoken) |
Government & Leadership
| Position | Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Sultan of Terengganu | Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin | Former Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia |
| Crown Prince (Tengku Mahkota) | Tengku Muhammad Ismail | Active in social development |
| Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) | YAB Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar | PAS party, Islamic governance-focused |
| State Secretary | Tuan Haji Tengku Seri Bijaya Raja Tengku Shahdan | Senior administrative leader |
Administrative Divisions (Districts)
Terengganu has 8 administrative districts:
- Kuala Terengganu District – Capital, royal and commercial center
- Marang District – Coastal beauty, fishing villages
- Dungun District – Industrial hub and beaches
- Kemaman District – Oil & gas industry center
- Hulu Terengganu District – Rainforest, waterfalls, Kenyir Lake
- Besut District – Home to Perhentian Islands, coastal agriculture
- Setiu District – Wetlands and eco-tourism
- Kuala Nerus District – Newest district (2014), houses Redang Island & UMT
Economy & Industry
- Petroleum & Gas:
- Kemaman and Kerteh are major oil and gas bases
- Fishing & Agriculture:
- Anchovies, squid, coconut, rice, fruits
- Tourism:
- Redang & Perhentian Islands, Mosques, batik villages
- Crafts & Textiles:
- Songket, batik, wood carving, brassware
Education & Institutions
- Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT)
- Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA)
- Darul Quran Ittifaqiyah, religious & pondok institutions
- Technical & vocational colleges throughout districts
Healthcare
- Main: Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah (HSNZ), Kuala Terengganu
- District hospitals: Dungun, Kemaman, Hulu Terengganu, Besut
- Health clinics and Islamic wellness centers
Transport & Connectivity
- Highways: East Coast Highway (LPT2), coastal roads
- Bus & coach stations: Connect to Kuantan, KL, Kota Bharu
- Airports:
- Sultan Mahmud Airport (Kuala Nerus) – domestic & Redang flights
- Marine:
- Jetty to Redang, Perhentian, Lang Tengah from Kuala Besut & Merang
Tourism & Attractions
- Redang Island, Perhentian Islands – Snorkeling, diving, resorts
- Masjid Kristal (Crystal Mosque) – Iconic Islamic architecture
- Taman Tamadun Islam (Islamic Civilization Park)
- Kenyir Lake – Malaysia’s largest man-made lake
- Batu Bersurat Museum, Pasar Payang, Turtle Watching (Rantau Abang)
- Local handicraft villages – Batik, brass, woodwork, songket weaving
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Highly traditional Malay-Muslim society
- Signature foods:
- Nasi Dagang, Keropok Lekor, Laksam, Ikan Celup Tepung (ICT), Sata, Otak-Otak
- Rich Islamic arts and folk culture:
- Dikir Barat, Ulek Mayang dance, wayang kulit (modified Islamic themes)
- Religious life centered around Friday markets, pondok teachings, mosque events
Summary
Terengganu is a state of faith, nature, and timeless tradition. Whether it’s the turquoise islands, the rhythmic sound of keropok frying, or the call to prayer echoing over the sea, Terengganu invites you to discover a Malaysia rooted in values, beauty, and authenticity.