Bukit Puteri

Build in 1830 as a fortrees, this hill offers a paranomic view of the state capital. The historical monuments and artefacts found here include the Genta (a large bell), Meriam Beranak (a family of cannons), an old lighthouse, and an ancient cemetery. The fortrees, overlooking the mouth of Terengganu River, was once used in the defence of Kuala Terenganu.

Bukit Puteri is situated at the mouth of Terengganu River. It covers an area of about 658 hectares and the height is about 200 meters from the sea level. Bukit Puteri was built to defend the Rulers of Terengganu from attacks by the enemies. Bukit Puteri is easily accessible as there are steps leading to the top. Bukit Puteri was said to have originated as a place of residence for Puteri Bunian. However, the princess left Bukit Puteri when the local residents borrowed her cutlery and did not return them to her. According to legend, this hill was opened by a chieftain from Johor named Tuk Raja Menteri who came to Terengganu to install Sultan Zainal Abidin I as the first Sultan of Terengganu.

During the year 1830, there was a struggle for power among the two royalty of Terengganu that is, Tengku Mansur, the Sultan of Terengganu who was conferred the title of Sultan Mansur Shah II and Tengku Umar, the Yang Di pertuan Besar. Tengku Umar had built a fort at the top of Bukit Puteri for defence. This fort was built of bricks and cemented with honey, lime and egg white. However Bukit Puteri was captured by Sultan Mansur Shah II and Tengku Umar was forced to flee to Besut. Bukit Puteri then came under the control of Sultan Muhammad I who ascended to the throne when Sultan Mansur Shah II passed away. However, Sultan Mahmmud was not able to defend Bukit Puteri when it was attacked by Tengku Umar army. Finally, Tengku Umar recaptured Bukit Puteri again.

A few historical artifacts still exists on Bukit Puteri till this present day. Among them are a big bell, cannon, a flag pole, light house, graves and a defence wall. However, long time ago there were many cannons at Bukit Puteri. The cannons were believed to have originated from Spain, Portugal and the Malay States and were given names such as Seri Jamlor, Seri Buih, Seri Johor and Laila Majnun. The bell that still exists today was built during the reign of Sultan Zainal Abidin III in the year 1908. The bell was made from yellow copper, the circumference and height of the bell were 228 centimeters and the weight was 175 kilograms. The bell was sounded when there were rampage, fire or enemies attacking the state. It was believed that the bell was guarded by a boy from the royal family. The boy job was to sound the bell if any emergency or natural disasters occurred.

A cave known as Gua Puteri can also be found here. It was used as a place to keep the gun powder, stone and iron bullets. The flag pole that is on top of Bukit Puteri was used to raise the royal flag when there were any royal ceremonies held. The weight of the flag pole was around 18 meters high. The lighthouse on the peak of Bukit Puteri functioned as a guide for fishermen and sailors that siles into Kuala Sungai Terengganu. During the reign of Tengku Umar, he built a palace called the Green Palace at the foot of Bukit Puteri but was burned down in 1882. He built a new palace near the site of the Green Palace and was named Istana Maziah which still exit until today

http://www.tourism.terengganu.gov.my/historical/KT/bukit_puteri.htm#
http://www.virtualmalaysia.com/destination/bukit%20puteri.html

China Town

"China Town is actually a row of prewar old building at Jalan Kg Cina. These buildings are believed to be the residence for the Chinese from China mainland who arrived in Peninsular Malaysia in the 19^th century. Most of the houses are 2 stories, with brick or concrete structure and wooden flooring in the second storey. Some still keep its wood carving on the windows and huge heavy wooden front door whereas some were turned into the renewed modern concrete building.

The colourful long roof has created a unique and beautiful photographing spot for photo taking especially in evening before the sun disappears from the sky.

These century old building are now sundry shops, local coffee shops, offices for several tour operators, batik and souvenir shops, restaurants etc. Recently there are people who buy over the house from the original owners and turn it a ‘swiftlet house’ for their bird nest business.

There is also a Chinese Temple painted in red colour standing at the corner. The local believe that ‘Goddess’ of the temple has given them very accurate guidance and ‘protection’ during the hard time, therefore there is always worshipers redeem their vow to the God."

http://www.terengganutourism.com/city_town_kuala_terengganu.htm
http://www.pbase.com/kenkeoh/kuala_terengganu_china_town
http://interesting-place-in-terengganu.blogspot.com/2006/04/kampung-cina_18.html

Marang

"Marang is 20 km from Kuala Terengganu. It is a gateway to the famous Kapas Island and Gemial Island.

It was once a tiny fishing village with only two rows of wooden houses in the town center, and other old wooden Malay houses with zinc roof spreading in the village which is separated from the town centre by a shallow river. This little town was called the ‘cowboy town’ in those days. Several groceries shops and guesthouses lining on the street, joining with old residential houses, making Marang a favourite stopover for tourists especially free-independence-travelers or backpackers before they jump onto a boat and head to the island.

However, the rapid development in the state especially the tourism industry in mid 90s, these old houses were demolished and replaced by modern concrete shop lots, leaving only the fishing village.

Even so, Marang today remains greenly with lush vegetation and old Malay village houses. The villagers are still maintaining their simple traditional life style and belief while the remaining little old fishing village is still standing among the coconut trees. If you are keen for photography, the fishing village can let you snap at any time, in any topic, till you are satisfied.

Marang river safari is another good attraction, you can book the trip with the tour operator, the boat will take you cruise along Marang river where you can enjoy a picturesque view of mangrove forest. You also can see animals that live along the river such birds, monitor lizards, monkeys, crabs etc. The boat trip stop at Jenang traditional village, where you can witness the villagers making coconuts sugar, weaving for attap roof and monkey plucking coconuts.

April to June is time for fisherman in Marang to go for squid jigging (Candat Sotong ). If you do not have seasickness problem, try candat sotong, boat departs around 7.00pm and reach the jingging point near Kapas Island in 45-60 minutes. Then you may try your luck. The squid are attracted to the light and tent to cluster around boats where fluorescent lamps are lit. A jig is a weighted lure with nine hooks arranged in a circular pattern at one end. The other end is secured to a fishing line. Normally the fisherman can land 30kg to 40kg squid a night, if the boat anchored at the right squid shelter or lubuk, its can easily land up to 100kg during a night of jigging.

During fruit season, market in the town center is a good place to get all kind of local fruit for the season. Villagers from inner Marang area will bring their harvest to sell their products in the market every Wednesday and Saturday, the market also know as pasar minggu (weekly market). If you happen to be in Marang on Sunday (Marang market) or Friday (Kg Sungai Kerak), visit the night market that start around 4.00pm end 8.00pm.

You can visit this fishing village by taking a bus from Kuala Terengganu to Marang or Rantau Abang."

http://www.terengganutourism.com/city_town_marang.htm
http://shw.fotopages.com/11598007/pemandanagn-dekat-jeti-marang.html
http://www.cuti.com.my/Sub/Terengganu/guide_marang.htm

The OLDEST and LARGEST CENGAL tree in Malaysia

"In the vast Pasir Raja Forest Reserve bordering the National Park, stands the world’s oldest and largest Chengal tree. Known for its remarkable quality and durability, The Malaysian Book of Records estimated it to be 1,300 years old with a diameter of 16.75 meters at the base and grows to a staggering height of 65 meters."

http://vacationoflife.blogspot.com/2006_08_23_archive.html

Songket Terengganu

"After graduating in 1975, Bibah was employed as a designer at Malaysian Handicrafts in Terengganu, acclaimed as the home of finest woven songket. Two years later, she join her husband in managing the Malaysian Handicraft centre in East Malaysia, in the state of Sarawak, where she came in contact with another weaving technique - the pua kumbu.

What impresses Bibah most as far as the pua kumbu is concerned, is the incorporation of warp ikat, tie-dyed pua in which the threads of the two weft have been tied together for the dyeing process, reflecting mirror image patterns. Such high fascination it was that when Bibah began using this weft technique, it was a revolution in the craft of songket weaving.

In 1982, with the breadth of experience over the years, Bibah started her own songket enterprise called "Bibah Songket" at her residence in Chendering, Kuala Terengganu. From there, her passion continues to fuel her creation of masterpiece songket as if it were fine art, and her dedication has not gone unrecognised. Bibah was given the commission to produce songket sarongs as gifts for Britain's Queen Elizabeth during the Head of Commonwealth Conference at Langkawi in 1989. The recipients of many songket design awards, including the award trophy in the Biennial Wicitra Competition in 1984 organised by Malaysian Handicrafts and the Best Textile in Traditional Design category in the same year that was held in Jakarta, Indonesia, her songket today graces the interior of Mutiara Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Istana Melawati, Menera Tun Razak, Shangrila Hotel in Putrajaya, and Petronas University, just to name a few."

http://www.bibahsongket.com/bib/index2.html

Nasi Dagang

"Nasi Dagang is a rice speciality of Terengganu. The Dish is made by cooking rice and glutinous rice together, to which is then added coconut cream once it is cooked. It is eaten with it's own specially made side dishes of tuna curry and a light vegetable pickle. Simplicity is its essence."

http://www.tourism.terengganu.gov.my/culinary.html

dance

dance

Rodat

"Rodat is a folkdance of Terengganu. The numbers of performers ranges from 20 to 26 and are divided into 'pelenggok' (12 male dancers), 'pengadi' (eight drummers) and 'mak inang' (four to six female dancers). The basic movements of Rodat are divided into sitting-kneeling, a combination of squatting and standing (performed mainly by male dancers) and standing movements."
http://www.tourism.terengganu.gov.my/cultural/rodat.html

Ulek Mayang

"Tarian Ulek Mayang is another worshiping dance in the Malay dances. The dancing always begins with a person who is suffering from illness either when he catches fish, in the paddy field or any other daily activities in the society. The patient will then healed by a bomoh, a traditional Malay doctor in the traditional way. Seven actors beautifully dressed represent the 7 princess who come to visit the patient when the bomoh is treating him. Kemayan will be burnt together with chanting of pantun and dancing throughout the whole performance. Although Tarian Ulek Mayang was once a folk ritual ceremonial in the Malay society, with its gentle and graceful movement, it has become one of the beautiful traditional dancing in Terengganu culture.

Some of these dances remain part of the agenda during certain occasion or ceremony, such as in a wedding or in a formal official function during which the complete set of music instruments will be used and the entire story of the dance will be carefully performed."

http://www.tourism.terengganu.gov.my/cultural/ulik_mayang.html

Tarian Gamelan

"Tarian Gamelan is a royal dance and was originally performed at palaces during the sultanate of Riau-Lingga and subsequently brought to the Malay land by Sultan Ahmad of Pahang. It was introduced to the state of Terengganu when Tengku Meriam, the daughter of Sultan Ahmad of Pahang married the son of Sultan Zainal Abidin II in Terengganu. During that time, this dance was only meant for the royalty on certain occasion. It was said that Tarian Gamelan has altogether 39 different dances of which part of these were created by Tengku Ampuan Meriam herself based on stories she heard from story tellers. Eight ladies all in colourful silk costume will be accompanied by some musical instruments such as serunai, gambang, saron, bonang, kenong, gendang ibu and gendang anak to perform the story."
http://www.tourism.terengganu.gov.my/cultural/gamelan.html

Noor Arfa Batik

"Noor Arfa is a pioneer of the much acclaimed batik industry in Malaysia. The Noor Arfa story has a humble beginning in 1980 in a small atelier in Kuala Terengganu when the husband and wife team of Wan Mohd. Ariffin and Noor Hijerah started designing and hand-drawing their own batik cloth. The Venture known as Noor Arfa an acronym derived from the names of this young and enterprising couple, was soon deemed to grow by leaps and bounds to the multi-million corporation it is today.
But success did not come without painstaking patience and hard work. Always improvising and striving for the best in batik designs, Noor Arfa won the admiration and recognition from local community for their meticolous design and high quality fabrics.
Already, Noor Arfa has achieved the status and rare distinction of being the largest batik producing in the country, with distribution centre spread throughout the nation. The factory itself occupies a sprawling 2.5 acres site in the Cendering Industrial Area of Kuala Terengganu and houses not only the manufacturing facility but also one of the Malaysia's largest batik showroom at (Lot 1048-K, Chendering Industrial Area, 21080 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu Darul Iman, Malaysia) that is frequented daily by bus loads of tourist eager to see the best batik the idyllic state of Kuala Terengganu has to offer.
With a strong force of more than 200 employees Noor Arfa continues to strive for par-excellence in meeting the discerning taste of every customer. This commitment pledge from the onset has been held steadfastly through their almost 2 decades in the traditional batik industry. The company has been manufacturing Batik for the global market for more than 20 years."

http://www.noor-arfa.com.my/2nd/about.html

Teluk Gadung

This place is situated just outside the MARA University of Technology Dungun, Terengganu. It is the best place to spend with family members and friends in the evening or during weekends. It is not a good place to swim, eventhough the sea looks inviting.

The scenic beauty of this place is breathtaking, especially when you watch the reflection on the surface of the lake. You will see the green hills which surround the lake. With luck, you might see hornbills flying from the trees towards the majestic hills or the resort campus. You will feel the serenity of the surroundings. The gentle blow of the sea breeze will be refreshing and a splendid place to release the stress of a hectic day.

This place is provided with a row of stalls where one can order local dishes or fruit drinks. You will also find childrens' playground and sites for picnickers.

Seeing is believing!

Karah Island

Karah island is just a small island which lies in front of Bidong Island. It is another great location for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Photo curtosy http://shw.fotopages.com/7263198/Pulau-Karah.html

Rhu Hentian Island

"Perhaps Pulau Perhentian, Pulau Redang and some other pulau are too famous and ‘over heated’ to many people, Pulau Rhu Hentian which is only 15 nautical miles from offshore Kuala Besut is not known to most people. It is indeed a new discovered and developing island in the tourism industry in East Coast.

Because it is so close to the mainland, Pulau Rhu Hentian is accessible through Kuala Besut 20 to 30 minutes by boat. The island has no resident at the moment. This no doubt is an added value advantage for holiday seekers. The ecology system on the island and the marine life remain unspoiled due to this reason.

Though Pulau Rhu Hentian is a new born baby in the tourism industry in the country, some water activities such as swimming, snorkeling and diving are possible to be arranged through some travel agencies. Apart from this, due to the tiny size of this island enable visitor to make a 2 hours ‘orientation’ trek as a ‘get to know you’ activity."

http://www.terengganutourism.com/pulau_rhu_hentian.htm
Photo curtosy http://malaysiabudgethotel.com/destinations/terengganu/pulau-rhu-hentian.html

Lang Tengah Island

"Lang Tengah Island is a very small island located between Perhentian Island and Redang Island. This little island is accessible by a 30 minutes boat ride from Merang jetty.

According to the locals, Lang Tengah takes it name from 2 sayings. The first one saying that ‘Lang’ comes from ‘Helang’ in the Malay language which means an eagle, therefore Lang Tengah means eagles resting on the middle island. The second saying spread among the villagers where once upon a time the island used to be the post road for traders and fisherman from the north to replenish their supplies while taking a rest after a long journey.

It is small, very small. A round island trip in speed boat only takes 10 minutes. The beach is narrow and land is limited. However, Lang Tengah Island gains it advantages from its size. Due to the limitation in the land, there are only 4 resorts operators on the island. This is somehow limiting the number of visitors to the island thus reduces the chances of environmental pollution to the island while offering more privacies to the holiday seekers who seek for a piece of quite and peaceful land."

More information at:

http://www.terengganutourism.com/pulau_lang_tengah.htm
Photo curtosy http://www.langtengah.com.my/

Bidong Island

"Before asking where is Bidong Island, let’s read the story below.

In the 1970s, thousands of the Vietnamese fled Vietnam in order to escape from the communist Vietnam. Many of them bought a safe passage to leave their homeland with gold. They traveled in boat of any shape, type and size. The boats are always overcrowded with men, women, children and babies, hundreds and thousands of them.

With the help of the wind and waves especially during the northeast monsoon, they will normally arrive after weeks or months of sailing on the sea. But, not all of the boats reached their destination safely. Pirates are the main fear for most of the boat people. Rape, rob, beat and murder are the nightmare apart from thirst, seasickness and starvation. In addition to these, with the horrible condition on the boat, there are people died everyday in their traumatic journey. The body will then be thrown into the open sea. Sometimes there are only few out of hundreds of the poor boat people survive till the end of the survival journey. Some, they actually arrived on the boat they initially took instead just holding a piece of wood or sitting in a big cooking pot… their poor little boat sunk in the strong and rough waves while in the journey.

Out of estimated nearly 1 million Vietnamese who left their homeland in the 1970s, nearly 255,000 of them landed on the shores of Malaysia and most of them were placed on Bidong Island. Why Bidong? Nobody knows. The Bidong Archipelago comprises six islands. Largest island (about 260 ha in size), Bidong was one of the scenic and uninhibited islands in those days. With the huge number of boat people landed on the island, in August 1978 the federal government ‘borrowed’ this island from the state government of Terengganu and gazetted Bidong as a refugee camp. However, the assistance given by the government and several non governmental organization such as United Nations of High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) has started before that. Bidong, after being gazetted as a refugee camp was under the supervision and management of UNHCR. No visitors were allowed on or around the islands.

Although this tiny island only had the capacity to accommodate for 4,500 refugees, however during some very ‘peak’ seasons, it once sheltered almost 40,000 people. To ensure the better living condition, long houses were built with schools, workshops, post office, church, temple, tailors, hair salons, bakery, noodle shops, sundry shops, even disco and bar etc. as to serve the basic needs. The home missing emotion can even seen not only on these imitation, the refugees even named on the beach here as Pantai Cina-China Beach, the famous counterpart in Vietnam. Therefore it is no doubt why Bidong was also called Little Saigon.

Bidong was the temporary home for the refugees before they are resettled to third country. Time taken for resettlement process varied from each individual. Some took a few months and some few years. While waiting for the news, UNHCR had organized vocational training, languages classes, kindergarten etc. for the refugees as a preparation for them to face the challenges of life when they are resettled in other countries. Those who are rejected in the resettlement process will then be transferred to Sungai Besi Refugee Camp.

When the last batch of the refugees left the island in 1991, Bidong Island was officially handed back to the Terengganu state government, but remains restricted to the public until 1999.

So, what happen to Bidong Island after the handover and after 1999? And what is left on the island? Though there was proposal to preserve the relics on the island, but when the first group of visitor stepped on the island after nearly 8 years being isolated from the world outside, those collapsed and rotting buildings and overgrown bushes imply that none of the preservation action has been carried out. Few buildings had been torched, equipment that remained in the vocational workshops has been smashed, wooden platform of the jetty was completely stripped…..by the nature, by the wildlife and also, by human.

Nevertheless, few structures are safe from the destructive action, such as an artificial boat besides the temple to commemorate those arrival on the island, statute of a father who pulls his beloved daughter out from the sea, cement memories with heart aching words inscribed, gravestones marking the burial plots etc. They stand like a mute reminder to the world.

Recently there are interests to turn this island into a tourist spot. But what kind of tourism can it be and should it be? This is a big question mark leaves for people whoever involves in the industry. Some say to construct new sky scrapping hotel buildings like other islands; some suggest to make the Little Saigon reborn and alive again by rebuilding the bar and disco and, some recommend to make Bidong Island a memorial island thus promoting heritage tour…

Before anything turn into reality, afford to bring tourists here has long started by some local tour operators. In year 2003, a group of former boat people who have resettled in other countries made their trip back to this island, which was once sheltered them from the waves of life. Many of them came back with their spouse. Their vision was bursting into tears, words turned into sobbing. A simple chanting ceremony was taken out by a group of Buddhism-Chinese as to calm the soul of those dead relatives and fellows. To them, this island is more than a bitter part of their history.

To date, fewer Malaysian tourists come here, not only because they are not familiar with the name but also, some of them claim that there is black spirit on the island.

Regardless how true it is, a 3D2N package tour with accommodation in resorts or hotel in the mainland or a day trip is available now from Kuala Terengganu to the island in order to give a chance to have a glimpse on this island before proceeding to snorkeling or diving trip in adjacent water. A guided tour is advisable even though you can simply hire a boat from Merang to the island yourself. There are many traps in form of abandoned wells dug by the refugees for fresh water.

Whether or not this island is going to be another island as famous as Redang or Tioman in the eyes of tourism, it remains a very special part in the heart for many Vietnamese and Malaysian. And, although Bidong Island is not familiar to the younger generation today, it will always has its place in the Malaysia’s modern history."

http://www.terengganutourism.com/pulau_bidong.htm
Photo curtosy http://www.geocities.com/nuar.geo/bidong.html

Duyong Island

"Just 2km off shore from Kuala Terengganu, lay Pulau Duyung, an island where the art of boat building runs in the blood of some of its inhabitants. Pulau Duyung is perhaps the most well known boat-building centres in Terengganu. Most of the boats built here are regular fishing boats, but there are a few exceptions. But even so, the craftsmanship of every boat built here is immaculate.

So much so that many have made a beeline for this tiny island to place orders on leisure boats costing as much as RM1million. A majority of them are foreigners, particularly from Europe, who highly appreciate the handiwork and long durability of these vessels. Several shipyards here build boats that can measure up to 80 foot long. What's most astonishing to visitors and sailboat afficionados is that these boats are built practically from memory, in most cases no blueprints are used as guideline by these boat builders."

"Pulau Duyong, Terengganu will be the focus of the sailing world when the world's fastest sailboats compete in the Monsoon Cup."

Photo curtosy http://www.worldmatchracingtour.com/default.asp?m=da&id=26905
http://www.virtualmalaysia.com/destination/pulau%20duyung%20(duyung%20island).html

Perhentian Island

"The two Perhentian Islands are rated as some of the most beautiful islands in the world…a virtual paradise for snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear water or just for lazing on one of the white sandy beaches waiting for the coconuts to drop. Perhentian Islands is located in the South China Sea 25 km from the coast of Kuala Besut. It consists of two islands, Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil. Both islands are surrounded by beautiful palm-fringed sandy beaches andcrystal-clear turquoise-blue sea. A trip to this lush and exotic tropical island is a must for all nature lovers and those who enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, swimming, wind surfing, sailing, boating and canoeing. All manner of aquatic life is visible both near and far from the beach such as turtles, sharks, coral and thousands of tropical fish. The interior is covered by jungle with a wide variety of species. You can watch monitor lizards, monkeys, geckos, flying squirrels, butterflies and many other types - sometimes right in front of your chalet. There are no roads and not many paths, so the islands are mainly peaceful and untouched - so far."

http://www.cuti.com.my/Sub/Terengganu/guide_pperhentian.htm

Kapas Island

"Pulau Kapas or Cotton Island inherited its name from the native because of its incomparable white beaches. Surrounded by crystal clear ocean, Pulau Kapas promises a spectacular getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life to quiet natural retreats with abundant sunshine and crisp clean air.

An island renowned for its clear waters, sandy white beaches and swaying palms, it is relatively isolated. Home to an infinite variety of hard and soft corals, the waters around the island abound with sea-shells, fish and turtles. The island's laid back atmosphere is ideal for relaxation but the more adventurous will find it is also a haven for swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing, kayaking, boating and fishing.

Where a myriad of corals, shell fish and turtles flourish in the waters. The waters around the quiet and secluded beaches offer ideal spots for snorkeling and scuba diving. Basic but comfortable accommodation is available. Not recommended during the monsoon season between November to March."

http://www.kapas.com.my/
Photo curtosy http://www.cuti.com.my/Sub/Terengganu/guide_pkapas.htm

Tenggol Island

"Pulau Tenggol is another beautiful diving getaway island lies offshore of Kuala Dungun in the southern of Terengganu. This tiny and compact island is only 45 minutes from the coastal quite jetty in Kuala Dungun. It is as small as 3km in length and 2km in width. However, this doesn’t prevent it from becoming a paradise for many people especially diving enthusiasts.

The interior of the island are steep sunken rocky cliffs. This rocky terrain extends from the interior of the island to the ocean and has created a dramatic canvas for diving meanwhile an ideal hideaway for marine life. For example in Teluk Air Tawar where the seabed will first slope gently down from the beach then a sudden drop of 90ft deep after some 600ft from the shore, creating a large spread of sloping reef on the rocky wall. Whereas in Rajawali Reef, as you dive deeper following the vertically dropped rocky walls which falls as deep as 32m, you will discover a healthy growth of encrusting corals at the bottom, accompanied by other marine fishes like batfish and black tip reef shark.

Diving in areas like Teluk Air Tawar, Tanjung Gemok and Tanjung Sarong Lang can be very challenging partly due to the strong current but also the concreted walls from the sunken wrecks lie underneath the clear blue water. However, it is still worth to try your luck here as besides calm coral gardens, you probably will have a chance to meet with humphead parrotfish, giant stingray, bat fishes, whale shark, leopard shark, schooling jacks etc. They are the usual residents here. Whale sharks are easily be seen during diving in certain area during August to October every year.

On the island itself, behind the sandy beach is the resort that blends harmoniously into the surrounding environment and accommodating every exhausted visitor after a long active day. To the interior of the island, it is deep forested rocky hills that make it a scenic destination for adventure seekers. The hills rising over 800ft is a good place to have a panoramic view of the island, who knows, maybe you will see turtle swimming in the sea".

http://www.terengganutourism.com/pulau_tenggol.htm
Photo Courtesy http://www.tenggolisland.com/gallery.html

Redang Island

"From a sleepy fishing village, Pulau Redang (Redang Island) has grown into one of the most popular tourist destinations on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The reefs of the Redang archipelago are home to over 55 genera of corals and 100 species of fish. Every year, Pulau Redang attracts thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the sun, beaches and spectacular marine life.

The Redang archipelago, located off the coast of Terengganu state, comprises Pulau Redang (Redang Island), Pulau Pinang (Pinang Island), Pulau Ling (Ling Island), Pulau Ekor Tebu (Ekor Tebu Island), Pulau Kerengga Besar (Kerengga Besar Island), Pulau Kerengga Kecil (Kerengga Kecil Island), Pulau Paku Besar (Paku Besar Island), Pulau Paku Kecil (Paku Kecil Island) and Pulau Lima (Lima Island). This group of islands boasts white sandy beaches, spectacular coral reefs and crystal clear waters, making it one of the best dive spots in the world.

The waters surrounding the Redang group of islands have been the second area to be gazetted as a Marine Park following Pulau Payar in Kedah. The park headquarters is located on Pulau Pinang which is off the main jetty of Pulau Redang."

http://www.malaysiaoutdoor.com/location/redang-island/?gclid=CKDvuKXtuI0CFQI1TAodi1VSIw

Gem Island

"Gem Island (Pulau Gemia) is a privately owned island, about 800 metres off Kapas Island. Gem Island had white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, beautiful corals and fascinating marine life. In another effort to preserve wildlife, one of the beaches on Gem Island is used as a turtle hatchery. Terengganu is renowned as one of the few places where turtles (including the giant Leatherback) come ashore to lay their eggs. On the island the green turtle is the most common. But the Hawksbill and Olive Ridley turtle are regular visitors. After laying, the eggs are collected and transferred by Gem Island staff to an enclosure on the beach. This protects them from marauding predators such as monitor lizards, crabs and seabirds."

http://www.cuti.com.my/Sub/Terengganu/guide_gemisland.htm

Lata Cemerong

"Reaching the Cemerong fall is quite an expedition because of its remoteness and lack of signage. From Kuantan you follow the Inland Highway to Kuala Terengganu. About halfway you will pass a small river, the Paka river. Take the first road to your left. Coordinates of the junction are N 04° 35.854' E 103° 12.542' From this junction it is about 30 km on a good tar road to the Entrance of the Recreation Park. From the coastal Highway you can cross over to the Inland one at Kemanan or Dungun Near to the carpark, a trail follows the river downhill. Hidden in thick forest you will find a few very attractive waterfalls in a steep ravine (be careful!). There is a nice place to camp nearby. At the left side of the Lower Fall a trail starts uphill. In the beginning it is cemented. The stream is very quiet here and there are beautiful buttressed trees. Do NOT cross the stream on the new over-sized bridge. Keep following the left side of the stream. The trail becomes less easy, but a suspension bridge and ropes help a lot. After about 1.5 hour you reach the bottom of the upper fall. And an impressive fall it is. Difficult to estimate the height, must be more than 250 meter. From the bottom of the fall it is not possible to climb to the top. Maybe the top can be reached by crossing the new bridge, and following the trail to the Gunung Berumbun".

http://www.waterfallsofmalaysia.com/72cemerong.php

Pantai Kemasik

"Located around 10 kilometres north of Kijal town, Kemasik Beach (Pantai Kemasik) is a beautiful and scenic tourist spot that you must visit if you happen to drive along the coastal roads of Terengganu.

This clean and picturesque beach is great for picnics, setting up camping tents, flying kites or just lounging around on the sand. You can also climb the large rocks on the beach and enjoy the view of the sea and beach from there.

There is a mini-park and playground near Kemasik Beach for visitors to enjoy. There are several food stalls in Kemasik Beach where you can buy light snacks and have a taste of the local food".

http://www.malaysia-tourist-attractions.com/kemasik-beach.html

Bukit Besi

"Bukit Besi which is situated in the district of Dungun was once an important and famous iron mining place in Terengganu. The history of iron mining in Terengganu begun in 1916 and was one of the largest iron mine in the world. The mining industry was handled by Nippon Mining Company. However, between 1945 till 1947, the mine was taken over by the British and was sold to the Eastern Mining and Metal Comany in 1949. From 1960, the production of iron at Bukit Besi began to decline. Thus the Government of Terengganu decided to close the iron mine in the early 1970s. Today Bukit Besi is a tourist attraction". (Courtesy sejarahmalaysia)

Batu Bersurat

"Kuala Berang is situated about 33 kilometers from Kuala terengganu and it is an historical place. Kuala Berang became famous when an inscribed stone was discovered here. The inscribed stone found was the earliest record of Islam in Peninsular Malaysia. The inscribed stone was discovered in 1899 when there was a major flood in Terengganu. After the flood, the villagers found a huge stone at the mouth of Sungai Teresat. The villagers then shifted the stone to a mosque at Kampung Buluh in Kuala Berang.

In 1902, a gold and tin miner named Syed Hussain bin Ghulam Al Bukhari from Riau - Lingga and Engku Pengiran Anum arrived at Kuala Berang. They saw the inscribed stone and brought it back to Kuala Terengganu where they presented it to Sultan Zainal Abidin, who was then the Sultan of Terengganu. Sultan Zainal Abidin kept the inscribed stone from many years as no one understood the Jawi writings that was inscribed on the stone. Thus an Englishman who was working in Terengganu send photographs of the inscribed stone to history language specialists in Singapore and London. In the end, the inscriptions on the stone was able to be read clearly.

The inscribed stone weighed about 215 kilograms, 84 centimeters in height, 53 centimeters wide at the top and 27 centimeters wide at the bottom. The thickness of the stone is 24 centimeters and is made of granite which cannot be easily broken. The inscriptions are in Arabic - Malay believed to be written on the 22nd February 1303. Among the inscriptions on the stone are the ten Islamic laws and their punishments. With the discovery of this stone, historians felt that Islam has reached Terengganu before the 14th century. The inscribed stone also proved that a government existed in Terengganu long before Melaka was founded. Even after Melaka was founded, Kuala Terengganu still remained an important port."
(courtesy sejarahmalaysia)

Bukit Keluang

Pantai Bukit Keluang is located at the very north of Kuala Terengganu, some 140 km away. However it is just a few kilometers south from Kuala Besut. It is also known as Dendong Beach Park. The beach is just behind a wooden walkway built through a rocky cave extended to the sea. Pantai Bukit Keluang is an ideal destination for some water sports such as swimming, snorkelling and wind surfing. On top of these, during weekend or holiday, you may see people come in family or group for picnicking and camping. (Courtesy terengganutourism.com)

New Species of Ginger

Three new species of ginger have been found in the protected forests of Setiu and Dungun. Botanists from the Forest Research Institute found them during scientific expeditions in 2005. they were recently described in the Gardens Bulletin Singapore as new and rare species. One of the species was registered as Scanphochlamys abdullahii, in honour of Prime Minister Datuk Sri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. Described as very rare by Sam Yen Yen, the FRIM researcher who found it, it is believed to be endemic to the forrest reserve in Hulu Setiu. The other two species were cnamed Scaphochlamys cordata and Scaphochlamys laxa. Both species were found in the Jengal forest reserve in Dungun. There are more than 1,200 ginger species in the world, and about a third of them are found in Malaysia. Some of the species like the Etlingera terengganuensis or the jungle rose, are endemic to Terengganu. The discovery of the new ginger species has opened thedoor to more scientific exdpeditions inthe protected forests of Terengganu. (NSTP 30/6/2007)

Hornbills

A Canadian Paul Benjamin Jones, a bird enthusiast attached with several bird-watching groups in Ontario, has managed to sight nine species of hornbills at Tasik Kenyir in Terengganu. The nine species were the Wrinkled, White Crown, Oriental-pied, Great, Rhino, Bushy-crested, Helmeted, Wreathed and Black hornbill. The open space had made Kenyir popular among local bird watchers. (NSTP 30/6/2007)

Tasik Kenyir

(Photo courtesy pbase.com)

"Located about 60km from Kuala Terengganu, it covers an area of 369 sq.km or 260,000ha. Once a tropical valley, it was flooded to create a hydroelectricity dam, thus creating within the lake numerous man-made islands of the once jutting hills and making it the largest man-made lake in South East Asia. The hilly regions of Tasik Kenyir contain areas of untouched tropical rainforest estimated to be millions of years old. The lake is unique for her beautiful scenario of tropical forest and its valuable flora and fauna species. It is believed that the area is the habitat of more than 8000 species of flowers, 2500 species of plants and trees, 8000 species of orchids, 370 species of birds and 300 species of fresh water fish.

Made up of 340 islands and 14 waterfalls and rapids, The Kenyir Lake provides for total relaxation and enjoyment in a unique environment. Kenyir Lake is a popular and ideal retreat for nature lovers, anglers and photographers, as well as cavers. Other activities include swimming, canoeing, boating and jungle trekking. Accommodation such as houseboats, floating chalets and lakeside resorts are also available to visitors. Due to the cleanliness of the lake, the Kenyir Lake has a wide variety of fresh water fish such as Toman (Snakehead), Baung (Catfish), Lampan Sungai (Scwanenfeldii’s Barb / Bardboides), Kelah (Malaysian Mahseer), Sebarau (Carp) etc…, so not surprisingly it has been dubbed as an 'Anglers Paradise'."

(courtesy abcmalaysia.com)

Sekayu Waterfalls

"The sight of water gushing and failing from a high altitude and the sound of rushing water is a very pleasurable experience. A favourite retreat for visitors and locals alike, the Sekayu Waterfalls with its seven cascades are surrounded by its natural landscape of lush jungle-clad hills, a fruit orchard, a mini zoo, a bird park, a flower garden and countless species of flora and fauna. Various facilities such as shelters, changing rooms, chalets and a resthouse have also been provided for the visitors' convenience. Located within the Sekayu Recreational Forest in Kuala Berang, it is only a 56 km drive from Kuala Terengganu, and about 45 minutes drive through unspoiled country scenery. There is a minimal charge of RM1.00 for each entry into the recreational forest".
(Courtery cuti.com)

Pasar Payang

"Pasar Payang, (Photo courtesy virtualtourist.com) or the Central Market of Kuala Terengganu, is a must-visit especially for first-time visitors to this turtle state. Located just a few minutes walk north along the pier from the inter-city bus station, Pasar Payang serves as both a wet market as well as trade centre for the local community. There is a festive air as you approach the entrance of the market, with makeshift stalls lining the path, showcasing trinkets of all kinds. In their loudest voice, these peddlers will impress you with the alleged magical powers of the amulets, the potency of their traditional medicines, or the quality of their precious stones.

On the ground floor, trading stalls are covered with fresh fish, meats and vegetables of all colour, many manned by kindly-faced old ladies, ever smiling, inviting you to their wares. This is where you'll find the unfamiliar and sometimes the bizarre. Instead of lettuce and tomatoes, here you'll find a whole range of traditional greens – pegaga, ulam raja, petai – normally eaten raw and seldom found at conventional urban grocers. Each of these vegetables is said to possess medicinal properties which can keep check almost every ailment there is. Peria is good for kidney ailments, pegaga for high blood pressure. You can get fresh produce of local delicacies such as the 'keropok lekor', made of grounded fish and flour, and 'serunding', the spicy flavoursome meat floss.

Terengganu is also known for its thriving batik industry. Some of the best batik and songket in Malaysia is hand made in Terengganu and a vast choice of this traditional textile can be purchased on the first floor of the Pasar Payang. A wide range of colourful handkerchiefs, batik shirts, scarves and kaftans are on display for you to choose from. Feast your eyes on a wide array of souvenirs. Silk garments, rattan baskets, brassware items and farmers’ hats are also popular items on sale here. Be sure to bargain for the best price when you're buying.

Drop by Pasar Payang the next time you happen to be in Kuala Terengganu and you will undoubtedly have a delightful experience shopping in local fares at reasonable prices here at Pasar Payang"

(Courtesy virtualmalaysia)

The Floating Mosque

"A state where religion is held close to it's people's hearts, the Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque, or also referred to as the Floating Mosque, is one of the icons of Islam in the state. Built from an idea birthed by the late Sultan of Terengganu, Al-Marhum Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah ibni al-Marhum Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah, this mosque was named after his mother, Tuanku Intan Zaharah binti Almarhum Tengku Seri Setia Raja.

The mosque is located in Teluk Ibai, just over 4km away from Kuala Terengganu town centre, quite close to the beautiful beach of Terengganu's coast. The white structure of the mosque gorunds covers and area of roughly 5 acres and serves a number of villages nearby. Construction of the mosque began in 1991, designed by celebrated architect, Raja Bahrin Shah Raja Ahmad.

The beauty of its architecture and serenity of its surrounding landscape, also draws a great number of visitors to Terengganu who take the opportunity to perform their prayers and take a breather from their journey at this mosque. The design of the mosque reflects a subtle Islamic influence combined with local features, incorporating the use of marble, ceramics, mosaic works and bomanite paving. . The entire mosque covers 25,282 square feet - large enough to accommodate between 800 to 1,000 people at once - and the minaret stands 125 feet tall. Constructed with a lake surrounding it, much like a moat, the mosque is popularly referred to as the Floating Mosque. With the backdrop of the open SoutH China Sea, this mosque is an irresistable attraction to visitors in Terengganu".
(Courtesy virtualmalaysia.com)

Leatherback turtles

"Rantau Abang is about 60 km from Kuala Terengganu, the nearest town is Dungun which is 22km to the south. This place is rather famous as the main nesting beach for turtles especially as one of the six nesting beach in the world for giant leatherback turtle (Dermocheleys coriaca). From May to September in every year, there will be visitors wait patiently and quietly on the beach for the turtle. The turtle will swim all the way back to here, then lumbering slowly on the sandy beaches to lay their eggs and disappear in the sea again. They normally lay their eggs when it is full moon and accompany with hide tide.

Nobody knows the reason why do these creatures choose to come back every year. However, the local believe that the turtles are attracted by two giant turtle stones (Batu Penyu) one lies between the bushes on a little hill in the village off the coast and another soaking in seawater. The mysterious stone on the hill is accessible in a 30 minutes short walk passing through the village. There is sign board along the way or you may get a villager to bring you there. Whereas the other one is covered by sand and water and is not visible any more.

Though there are conservation actions taken by the Fisheries Department, reports show that number of turtle coming back to lay theirs eggs every year is declining. This is partly due to the consequence of some incorporative action from the visitors such as pulling the turtle’s flippers, riding on the turtle, taking the eggs, etc.

Even not for the purpose of witnessing the egg laying ‘process’, Rantau Abang is still a great place for swimming, picnicking and sunbathing. The miles long clean and soft sandy beach is a temptation for many people. Local run chalets and guesthouses are just standing behind the beach, offering excellent rooms and services.

There is a Turtle Information Center situated by the main road, displaying information about turtles. A few minutes documentary is also played several times a day".

(Courtesy terengganutourism.com)

Keropok Stalls

If you are travelling from the north or the south towards Dungun, you will definately notice rows of keropok stalls along the highway. Keropok lekor or keropok losong is a name given to a popular boiled or fried snack in Terengganu. The keropok is made of fish meat, grounded to a paste. It is then mixed with sago and rolled to form the lekor or the losong. Another form of keropok is the thin, crispy ones which are called keropok keping. Keropok are best eaten hot with its special chili dip. So don't miss the chance of stopping at these stalls and bringing some home to your families.

Oil and ships

When Dungun became the iron mining town in the late 1940s, the locals were able to see foreign ships coming and going. Dungun became a busy small town. The 'golden era' ended in the late 70s when the mines in Bukit Besi closed-down. The expatriate worders returned and Dungun was left idle. In 1982, PETRONAS Carigali made its first oil discovery at Dulang Oilfield off the coast of Terengganu.

"Another oil industry city in Terengganu is Kerteh which is about 2 hours drive to the south of Kuala Terengganu. The whole setting and layout of Kerteh is so much different from other cities in Terengganu state. With the moving in of the petroleum refineries into this little town, rows of modern residential houses were built in the outskirt of old for the employees in the petroleum processing companies apart from the refineries plants a few kilometers away. The economy of this tiny town has blown up in a night time changing from one little ‘no city’ to a city with important economy role for the state. Passing by the huge petroleum refinery plants in the night time is a unforgettable experience. Gases accompanied by fire released from the pipe and the huge plants are brightly lighted and appear in a suddenly on a bare land, like a space city appear in the middle of the sky." (courtesy terengganutourism.com)

Seberang Pintasan

If you are planning for a picnic and Dungun is your destination, then one place you can go will be Seberang Pintasan which is about 10 Km away from Dungun. Seberang Pintasan is a small fishing village in Tanjung jara, having a white sandy cove and houses with steep wooden roofs with its traditionally designed buildings. One can get the thrills of watching the sun rise over the sea or fishermen pulling their net to the shore. The best part of this picnic will be a beachside barbecue with your family or friends.

Paka Town

This small fishing village that lies 10 km north of Kerteh town, 120 km north of Kuantan, and 110 km south of Kuala Terengganu has now transformed into a busy commercial area. Thanks to the discovery of oil in the waters off Terengganu, Paka now has emerged out of the shadows of poverty in the past. To reach Paka from the north one has to cross the bridge across the Paka River that flows lazily to the majestic South China Sea. Alongside the river you can still see the remains of the tranquil fishing village of Paka. The roads are now wider to accomodate the increasing traffic from the north and the south. Eventhough this town is developing at a fast rate, the government is carefull to maintain the scenic beauty of this place as it is listed as one of the country's tourist destination.

Bridging the Gap

Kuala Dungun

This bridge which is under construction will link Kuala Dungun to Tanjung Jara which is popular as a picnic spot for locals and foreigners. Before it was just a fishing village and the villagers have to cross the Dungun River either by boat or a bridge which covers a distance of 10 km to buy provisions in Kuala Dungun.