Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
Region: Terengganu
Geographic Coordinates: 5.329200, 103.136000
Temperature Range: 24.0°C to 32.0°C (75°F to 90°F)
Climate: Tropical climate with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year, and occasional monsoon seasons.
Population: 255109
Language: Malay
Kuala Terengganu is the capital city of the state of Terengganu, Located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It is a vibrant coastal city with a rich history and cultural heritage that dates back to the 18th century. The city is known for its stunning beaches, Historical landmarks, Traditional crafts, And local delicacies. One of Kuala Terengganu’s most iconic landmarks is the Crystal Mosque (Masjid Kristal), Which features stunning crystal chandeliers, Glass domes, And walls that reflect off the water. The mosque’s unique architecture combines modern design with traditional Islamic elements and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Another popular attraction in Kuala Terengganu is Chinatown (Kampung Cina), Which offers a glimpse into the city’s multicultural heritage. Visitors can explore traditional Chinese shophouses, Sample local delicacies such as keropok lekor (fish crackers), And visit local temples such as Hokkien Huay Kuan Temple. For those interested in history, Kuala Terengganu has several museums that showcase its rich culture and traditions. The State Museum (Muzium Negeri) displays artifacts from ancient civilizations such as Majapahit and Srivijaya empires while also showcasing exhibits on local crafts like batik printing.
The city also boasts several beautiful beaches including Batu Buruk Beach which offers white sand beaches perfect for swimming or sunbathing. Visitors can also enjoy water sports activities like jet-skiing or parasailing at nearby islands like Pulau Redang or Pulau Kapas. Foodies will love exploring Kuala Terengganu’s night markets where they can sample delicious street food such as nasi dagang (rice cooked in coconut milk served with fish curry), Satay celup (satay dipped in peanut sauce) or cendol (a sweet dessert made from coconut milk). Kuala Terengganu is a city that offers something for everyone.
From its stunning landmarks and beaches to its rich history and local delicacies, It is a destination that should not be missed. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s cultural heritage or just want to relax on the beach, Kuala Terengganu has it all.
- Crystal Mosque
- Terengganu State Museum
- Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque
- Bukit Puteri (Princess Hill)
- Redang Island
- Pasar Payang (Central Market)
- Pulau Duyong Cultural Village
- Batu Buruk Beach
- Islamic Civilization Park
- Terengganu Drawbridge
- Tourism: Kuala Terengganu is a highly sought-after tourist destination due to its stunning beaches, islands, and cultural attractions.
- Fishing: The city boasts a flourishing fishing industry with many fishermen operating in the area.
- Agriculture: Agriculture plays a vital role in the economy of Kuala Terengganu with crops such as rice, coconut, and palm oil being cultivated in the region.
- Handicrafts: The city is renowned for its traditional handicrafts like batik printing, songket weaving, and woodcarving which are popular among tourists.
- Retail: There are numerous shopping centers and small businesses that cater to both locals and tourists alike in Kuala Terengganu.
- Education: The city has several universities and colleges that offer higher education programs to students from all over Malaysia.
- Healthcare: There are many hospitals and healthcare facilities located within the city serving the local population as well as medical tourists from other regions of Malaysia.
- Kuala Terengganu was established as a trading port by Sultan Zainal Abidin III in the 16th century.
- Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah built the Istana Maziah palace and made Terengganu a British protectorate during his reign.
- The Battle of Kuala Terengganu took place in 1839, where British forces emerged victorious over Malay fighters led by Dato’ Bahaman.
- The construction of the Crystal Mosque in 2008 has made it a popular tourist destination.
- Notable individuals from Kuala Terengganu include former Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and current Member of Parliament Ahmad Amzad Hashim.
- Sheikh Tahir Jalaluddin, an Islamic scholar, and Syed Akbar Ali, a journalist, are also associated with the city.
- In recent years, traditional arts and crafts such as batik-making and songket weaving have become popular in Kuala Terengganu.
- Terengganu State Museum: This museum is one of the largest in Southeast Asia and displays the history, culture, and traditions of Terengganu.
- Islamic Civilization Park: Also known as Taman Tamadun Islam, this park showcases replicas of famous Islamic monuments from around the world.
- Crystal Mosque: This stunning mosque is made entirely of glass and steel and reflects beautifully on the water at night.
- Bukit Puteri: A hilltop fortress that offers panoramic views of Kuala Terengganu and its surroundings.
- Batu Buruk Beach: A popular beach for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying local food stalls.
- Pasar Payang: A bustling traditional market where visitors can find local handicrafts, textiles, and fresh seafood.
- Pulau Duyong Cultural Village: An authentic Malay village where visitors can learn about traditional crafts such as boat building and batik making.
- Maziah Palace Museum: The former royal palace turned museum showcases the history of Terengganu’s royal family.
- Pantai Teluk Ketapang Turtle Conservation Centre – Visitors can witness turtle conservation efforts here including egg hatching programs.
- Terengganu Drawbridge – One among a few drawbridges in Malaysia which spans across Sungai Terengganu River connecting Kuala Nerus to Kuala Terangganu.
- Kuala Terengganu Football Association (KTFA) – a local football club competing in the Malaysian Premier League.
- Kuala Terengganu Hockey Club – participating in field hockey tournaments and competitions across Malaysia.
- Kuala Terengganu Cycling Team – specializing in road cycling and taking part in national and international races.
- Kuala Terengganu Dragon Boat Club – competing in dragon boat races throughout Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
- Kuala Terengganu Taekwondo Association – promoting taekwondo practice among locals through training programs and competitions.
Overall, while there may be no major professional sports teams based in Kuala Terengganu, locals still have plenty of opportunities to participate in various amateur sports leagues and activities.
- Terengganu International Squid Jigging Festival is an annual celebration of the traditional fishing method of squid jigging held in April and May.
- Monsoon Cup is an international sailing event that takes place annually in Kuala Terengganu during November, attracting sailors from all over the world.
- Malaysia Water Festival is a yearly event that highlights water sports activities such as kayaking, jet skiing, and parasailing. It occurs every August.
- Chinese New Year Celebration in Kuala Terengganu is grand with lion dances, dragon dances, fireworks displays and other cultural performances due to its significant Chinese population.
- Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a Muslim festival celebrated at the end of Ramadan with prayers at mosques followed by feasting with family and friends.
- Tadau Kaamatan Harvest Festival celebrates Sabahan people giving thanks to rice gods for their bountiful harvests through cultural performances including traditional dance shows (sumazau).
- Pesta Pulau Duyong is a 4-day event that celebrates local culture through various activities including traditional boat races (Perahu Duyung), kite flying competitions (Wau Bulan), food stalls selling local delicacies etc.
- Merdeka Day Parade showcases Malaysian culture through colourful floats representing different states of Malaysia along with cultural performances by various ethnic groups living in Malaysia on 31st August every year as Malaysia celebrates its independence day parade.
- Nasi Dagang Kak Pah – a famous restaurant that serves traditional Terengganu dish of rice cooked with coconut milk and served with fish curry.
- Keropok Lekor Zul – a popular snack made from fish paste mixed with sago flour and deep-fried. It is served with chili sauce.
- Warung Pok Nong – a seafood restaurant that offers fresh catch of the day such as grilled fish, prawns, squid, and clams.
- Pasar Payang Food Court – a bustling food court that offers various local dishes such as nasi kerabu (blue rice), laksa Terengganu (spicy noodle soup), rojak (fruit salad), and more.
- Restoran Pak Su Seafood Village – another seafood restaurant that offers delicious dishes such as butter prawns, steamed fish, and crab cooked in various styles.
- Kopi Tiam Kita – a cozy cafe that serves traditional Malaysian breakfast such as nasi lemak (coconut rice) and kaya toast (toasted bread spread with coconut jam).
- Taman Tamadun Islam Food Court – located near the Islamic Heritage Park, this food court offers various local delicacies for visitors to try after exploring the park’s attractions.
- Taman Tamadun Islam (Islamic Heritage Park)
- Bukit Puteri Recreational Park
- Pantai Batu Buruk Beach
- Taman Awam Kuala Terengganu (Kuala Terengganu Public Park)
- Pulau Duyong Cultural Village
- Pasar Payang (Central Market)
- Crystal Mosque at Islamic Heritage Park
- Terengganu State Museum and Islamic Civilization Park
- Kampung Cina (Chinatown)
- Terengganu Waterfront City and Esplanade
