The Longest Exotic Beach in Malaysia and its beaches
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Streching more that 244 kilometre the Terengganu Coastline is The Longest Exotic Beach in Malaysia also knows as Malaysia’s longest playground in the sun.
Beachcombers and sunworshippers alike will find the Terengganu coastline to be one never-ending giant playground with the longest sandy coastline in the country.Terengganu offer an amazing collection of beaches that revealboth secluded palm fringed coves abd popular beachfront
The state of Terengganu, on the East Coast of Peninsula Malaysia, is famous for its long stretch of white sandy and unpolluted beaches that span 244 kilometers from the northern district of Besut to the southern district of Kemaman. Which is The Longest Exotic Beach in Malaysia also knows as Malaysia’s longest playground in the sun.
Facing the South China Sea, the amazing collection of beaches that reveal both secluded palm fringed coves and popular beachfront beaches are breathtaking and its offshore islands enchanting. A haven for those seeking a good time in the sun, sand and sea.
All these amazing beach are easily accessible via the scenic costal highway that even me and some tourist can’t resist the temptation to stop by the way to gave at the golden sunrise or have a picnic , Fishing. or buying the Famous Terengganu ‘s Delicacies The “Keropok Lekor”,The aroma of the famous “Otak-Otak” and othe malay delecasie that can be found almost all place in the city or throughout the coastal highway.
You can ask you tour guide or taxi to stop to buy these delicacy while traving by tour bus or taxi around Terengganu as all of them know where to find the best place for all famous delicacy.
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Streching more that 244 kilometre the Terengganu Coastline is The Longest Exotic Beach in Malaysia also knows as Malaysia’s longest playground in the sun.
Beachcombers and sunworshippers alike will find the Terengganu coastline to be one never-ending giant playground with the longest sandy coastline in the country.Terengganu offer an amazing collection of beaches that revealboth secluded palm fringed coves abd popular beachfront
The state of Terengganu, on the East Coast of Peninsula Malaysia, is famous for its long stretch of white sandy and unpolluted beaches that span 244 kilometers from the northern district of Besut to the southern district of Kemaman. Which is The Longest Exotic Beach in Malaysia also knows as Malaysia’s longest playground in the sun.
Facing the South China Sea, the amazing collection of beaches that reveal both secluded palm fringed coves and popular beachfront beaches are breathtaking and its offshore islands enchanting. A haven for those seeking a good time in the sun, sand and sea.
All these amazing beach are easily accessible via the scenic costal highway that even me and some tourist can’t resist the temptation to stop by the way to gave at the golden sunrise or have a picnic , Fishing. or buying the Famous Terengganu ‘s Delicacies The “Keropok Lekor”,The aroma of the famous “Otak-Otak” and othe malay delecasie that can be found almost all place in the city or throughout the coastal highway.
You can ask you tour guide or taxi to stop to buy these delicacy while traving by tour bus or taxi around Terengganu as all of them know where to find the best place for all famous delicacy.
Nur Nadhirah Palace
This palace was erected in the 1920s after the signing of the Agreement between Terengganu and Great Britain in 1919, under which the Terengganu Government was to provide official accommodation to the British Advisor.
The palace became the residence of Governor Shuchiji Kakha (Shu Chokan Kakha) when Terengganu was under the Japanese regime, and of the Thai Governor while under Siamese rule.
It was then the abode of the British Advisor since after World War Two until December 1956.
When the country achieved independence from the British, the palace became the official dwelling of His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince of Terengganu, the current Sultan of Terengganu.
The Palace was given the name Nur Nadhirah in 1998.
This palace was erected in the 1920s after the signing of the Agreement between Terengganu and Great Britain in 1919, under which the Terengganu Government was to provide official accommodation to the British Advisor.
The palace became the residence of Governor Shuchiji Kakha (Shu Chokan Kakha) when Terengganu was under the Japanese regime, and of the Thai Governor while under Siamese rule.
It was then the abode of the British Advisor since after World War Two until December 1956.
When the country achieved independence from the British, the palace became the official dwelling of His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince of Terengganu, the current Sultan of Terengganu.
The Palace was given the name Nur Nadhirah in 1998.
Istana Badariah
Istana Badariah
Works in the building of Badariah Palace first started at 8.00 a.m. on Monday, 22nd January 1940 (12th Zulhijjah 1358 H.). Built on a piece of land at Lot 41, Padang Seri Negara Mukim Batu Buruk, the palace ground measures some 41.844 acres or 16.933 hectares in area.
The palace was first erected in the era of Sultan Sulaiman Badrul Alam Shah (1920-1942), the 13th Sultan of Terengganu. Unfortunately, due to his untimely death, the Sultan did not manage to occupy the new palace. His body was, however, conducted from this palace on the way to his final resting-place.
The palace was made Renca-Consol during the Japanese occupation of Malaya. Badariah Palace then became official residence to the 14th Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah (1945-1979). Sultan Ismail breathed his last in the palace, and his body was escorted in a royal procession from here to the Royal Cemetery at the Zainal Abidin Mosque in Kuala Terengganu.
Badariah Palace also became the official residence of Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah, the 15th Sultan of Terengganu, in whose era a number of renovations were made to the palace.
The interesting and beautiful structural designs on display at the palace have now become national and state heritage, and a source of pride to the Terengganu people.
Royal occasions and greetings for important State visitors are now frequently held at this palace.
The palace was first erected in the era of Sultan Sulaiman Badrul Alam Shah (1920-1942), the 13th Sultan of Terengganu. Unfortunately, due to his untimely death, the Sultan did not manage to occupy the new palace. His body was, however, conducted from this palace on the way to his final resting-place.
The palace was made Renca-Consol during the Japanese occupation of Malaya. Badariah Palace then became official residence to the 14th Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah (1945-1979). Sultan Ismail breathed his last in the palace, and his body was escorted in a royal procession from here to the Royal Cemetery at the Zainal Abidin Mosque in Kuala Terengganu.
Badariah Palace also became the official residence of Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah, the 15th Sultan of Terengganu, in whose era a number of renovations were made to the palace.
The interesting and beautiful structural designs on display at the palace have now become national and state heritage, and a source of pride to the Terengganu people.
Royal occasions and greetings for important State visitors are now frequently held at this palace.
Pasar Payang is a must-visit especially for the first-time visitors to this Sea turtle state (Negeri Penyu). Located just a few minutes walk north along the pier from the inter-city bus station and Located just by the Sungai Terengganu (Terengganu River).
Pasar Besar Kedai Payang (Payang ‘s Big Market Shop) or Pasar Payang in short (also known as Central Market) is the lifeline of KT. Located by the Terengganu River, it is one of the most popular tourist spots in KT, not only for shopping but also to have a taste of life in KT. It is also close to the Shabandar jetty, making it ideal for a short stop en route to the islands off the coast.
The Pasar Payang is housed in 2 storeys building consisting of a wet market and a shopping arcade, it offers visitors a variety of items to purchase - from grocery items such as such fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, "keropok lekor" etc to traditional products and souveniers like batik, brassware, brocade and songket. Visitors to this market will have a delightful experience shopping in local fares at reasonable prices. 
Pasar Payang serves as both a wet market as well as a 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, displaying 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.
The Malayan Medical Green or Ulam
This is where you'll find the familiar lettuce and tomatoes and the unfamiliar and sometimes out of the ordinary like the “Durian”The King of Fruit (indigenous prickly-skinned durian that emit a pungent scent. But delicious and if u over eat more that 4 or 5 durian .... i can guaranteed that your air-cond room will be like a boiler room.( See Wiki for Durian) . Instead of, here you'll find a whole range of traditional greens Call "Ulam" Ranging from– pegaga, ulam raja, petai (Very strong pungent smell) – normally eaten raw and and cooked with chilli and are seldom found at conventional urban grocers. Each of these vegetables are certified 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. 
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.
Two of the many Beautiful Batik and Songket Shop at the Market
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 silk handkerchiefs, batik shirts, scarves and kaftans are on display for you to choose from. 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.
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 silk handkerchiefs, batik shirts, scarves and kaftans are on display for you to choose from. 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.
The Local Trishaw that can be found at the Pasar Payang-the best way to see the city
If you are going Pasar Payang or Basar Warisan why dont you stop by at Sha Antik it one of the main shop that are visited by tourist and all the zealous antiquety collector
, since it one of the only two antique shop in whole Kuala Terengganu Distric.
PS: , since it one of the only two antique shop in whole Kuala Terengganu Distric.
What you see now today is different than when this article was written 6 year ago but still not much changes except to the surrounding area with new Development such as Bazar Warisan, Riverview Cruise and such as seen at this page
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Side Note and some History......for extra reading.....Blah..blah
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| Pasar Payang in Kuala Terengganu in the 1970s |
The History of the Marketplace in
Terengganu
Arcording to the history ,the town Kuala Terengganu once had two big famous market; One of them is the “Pasar Tanjung” (Foreland Market) ,which is also known by the local as “Pasar Kedai Hilir” (Down River Market Shop) and the other one is called “Pasar Payang” (Payang is a traditional large fishing net which is suit and pull by the Perahu Payang). The marketplace was call Pasar Payang because of one of the Terengganu trademark;the famous traditional “Perahu Payang” which can only be found in Terengganu and was once the most popular boat use by the traditional fisherman.
"Well...actually, before the two big marketplace, there had already existed one large market; which was called Pasar Kampung Laut (Market of the Sea Village), situated near Kampung Bemban (which was once famous for its many colourful Bemban basket) and Kampung Nesan Empat or” Village of Four Headstone,” Kuala Terengganu "
N.B (Bemban plant “Donas arundastrum”--> {use google image} .its trunk are use in the traditional bemban basket – N.B: no body makes the bemban basket anymore and finding ones at Pasar Payang are pure luck!
Between the two market, Pasar Besar Tanjung had the most seller and peddler which run their business every day. During those time almost all the seller there are Malay and while the rest are Indian who sells large variety of spice, herbs and also some household item.
Like Pasar Payang they are many thing that are sold that its can be said that however small or big the thing needed and till whatever things that are wanted by customer can be found here. The Pasar are consisted of two large building on the western side of the road. Both of them are wall-lest, Where the highest building are the place where cow ,deer ,water buffalo and other meat are sold while the eastside building are specialise for fishmonger. While the ground area near the beach around the building were given to the peddler.
While on the south till north can be found a long role of shop where each space is 300 foot are café and shop selling textile, gold and silversmith and all thing incuding bizarre thing.
On the north west of the pasar.there are a vast “tanjung” (foreland) which near the corner of the “Sungai” (river) Kuala (water mouth) Terengganu. When the tide come in river will overflow to the bay flooding the peddler area. This place are are called Kampung Tanjung Pantai Teluk (Village of Foreland Beach Bay).
Kampung Tanjung Pantai Teluk was once known; for its cottage industry in the production of Atap Nipah , Gulung Daun Nipah, Pasar Sasak and Dinding Pelupuh.
N.B :
Atap Nipah
-roof made of Nipa fruticans leaf.
Gulung Daun Nipah “role Nipah leaf”
-use as traditional cigarette; where role Nipah leaf are unrolled and role again together with tobacco.
Pasar Sasak
- traditional nail which are made of wood.
Dinding Pelupuh
- bamboo that are hit until flatten by thick wood like a club to make wall in traditional house.
The river here was once the economy and the life line of many people. Once from morning till 3 o’clock in the afternoon, many “Perahu” and fisherman boat can be seen here “parking” by the beach or in the bay. The perahu are used by villager who live out of town to buy or bring and sell they product at Pasar Besar Tanjung. While fishermen boat came here to send they catch to the fish monger.
“Perahu”
- a wooden boat which is usually wide only 1-1.5 meter and length 3 - 7 meter.
Every day when the time strike exactly 5 o’clock in the afternoon the area around Pasar Besar Tanjung will be full with team of peddler and seller selling all kind of delicacy, food and 1001 thing can be found here.When the night come the area would look like a fiasta with many long line “Pelita” kerosene lamp can bee seen lining up from both side of the lane at Pasar Tanjung. Business are done till the peddler go home at 3 or 4 o’clock in the morning.
Aproching the 60’s ,the Pasar Payang Kuala Terengganu were modify and enlarge. All the old buiding here were replace with new stone building (like in the picture).After finish rebuilding the Pasar Payang. Many peddler, seller and shop owner either from Pasar Tanjung or the old one moved to the new Pasar Payang.
The Fate of Pasar Tanjung
During the late 70’s,the ground of the Pasar Tanjung become quite and deserted after the government order all the seller to moved to Pasar Payang which were renamed Pasar Besar(big) Payang.like the malay proverb “setiap yang patah akan tumbuh,dan yang hilang akan berganti ”which mean Every that are broken wil grow,and those which is missing will be replace”....... The ground at the former Pasar Tanjung were clean up, and made in to a “taman” or garden and the building are replace with long role of shop and café selling food and drink. This area was later officiated and renamed “Taman Selera Tanjung” or popularly known as TST by the local. The names Taman Selera Tanjung are very amusing when translated in to English (Foreland’s Appetite Garden)
When I was a kid I used to frequent this place with my family after finish shopping at the super (The Store and sometime at Hock Kee Seng)
But TST didn’t last long, because I still remember seeing the erosion around the Garden which is cause by the wave at the river mouth. Resulted by that... a new buiding which is 4 storey high were build to replace the TST which fell succumbed to the wave and was officiated in the year 1990 by Yang Amat Berhormat (The Most Honourable), Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed who was then the fourth Great Prime Minister of Malaysia. The building were later renamed Kompleks Taman Selera Tanjung. The ground at the right side of the complex were made into a night market or Pasar Malam Tanjung , where from 5pm onward will be fill with many hawker until 12 or 1 am.
Like the history repeating it self. In 1998 The Kompleks Taman Selera Tanjung was sold and modified by the new owner into a Small Super called ASTAKA SHOOPING COMPLEX. Selling all kind of tin stuff and groceries that u normally see. Here inside Astaka u will find a fast food restaurant, cake shop, phone shop etc... ,this is one of the place u can stock up some cheap wine and cheap beer before your next trip to the island as alcohol are hard to find unless your are at a Chinese restaurant.
The Closing of Pasar Malam Tanjung and its blessing
At the year 1995, The Pasar Malam Tanjung were closed down to made way for a small bus express terminal and office (December 1995) and still remain with small cubicle ticketing office as it is today 2006 . This small terminal is the place where u will arrive if u take any bus express to Kuala Terengganu. Here u can find a buiding with 4 toilet!!? and other public amities like public phone .
After 10 year, this shabby building still sell bus ticket to all major city in Malaysia. Is quite a sore in the eyes and are pathetic and embarrassment to Terengganu State .It is quite pathetic seeing a 20M by 3M long wooden squire box with small 1m wide counter or 1 x 2m cubicle selling ticket to the other major city and some mega city like Kuala Lumpur ,Shah Alam and Johor Bharu and 3 metre wide roof .There only 18 small long chair which can accommodated only around 80 people ..while there are at lest 9 or 13, 40’s seater air conditioning bus express departing every hour to other major city in Malaysia which ...is.. my god what and accommodation they got!! still with all its crazyness was compensated with its precise time and scheduled for bus to arrive and depart. and a small super called The ASTAKA SHOPPING COMPLEX just about 8 metre from the terminal ticketing both. When its rain you can run to the small Super if you are not afraid to miss your bus.(this happen a lot to many non local who loiter to long at the ASTAKA that they miss they scheduled time :P )
How To Get Here
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| MAP to PASAR PAYANG |
Conveniently located in the prime business area, Pasar Payang is within walking distance from Dataran Shahbandar, Istana Maziah, Bukit Puteri and Bazaar Warisan in Jalan Zultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Terengganu.
From the MBKT Bus Terminal, walk along Paya Keladi Business Centre, turn left and Paya Payang is right ahead.
Where To Eat
- Pasar Payang Food Court
- Bazar Warisan Food Court
- Shafinaz Nasi Padang Restaurant
- Erwina Nasi Padang Restaurant
- KFC Paya Keladi Business Centre
- Mc Donald’s Paya Bunga
N.B:
Just infront of the small terminal at the cross road, u can see a very popular but “STUPID” Chinese restaurant. Why Stupid you ask? because the owner are greedy and reckless for other people safety. They modified and enlarge they shop with 1.5 meter high pavement to put they extra table till its reach the bloody road. If you are riding a Proton Wira, you will need to up your car into the main road about almost 2 meter something, just to see whether you can corner into the main road as the table and the customer block your view. Which is very dangerous if the incoming car speed on and don’t know there are a road next to the @#$$%& restaurant.. What irritated me and most motorist is that is the little @#$%^& cute teddy customer who smile at you and than while you about to corner they will pour carbonated, juice and etc drinks and food on your car.. chou !@#$%^&&*..... I don’t recommend anyone eating there at all.
(PS: The SHops pavement had been reconstructed 1 year ago by the Local Authorities after the article was post ^_^ to ground level with the roads)
Quest for Reader!!
Thing to find with google image
- Nipa fruticans - Atap Nipah - Gulung Daun Nipah - Pasar Sasak -Dinding Pelupuh.
- Perahu- Dr Mahathir- ASTAKA SHOOPING COMPLEX-Perahu Payang-
new paper article about Pasar Payang.
http://www.nst.com.my/Weekly/Travel/article/Shopping/
20050425130534/Article/index_html
Appreciating Past History at Pasar Payang
Laman Istana Maziah
Laman Istana Maziah or Courtyard of Maziah Palace is a small park outside the compound of the Istana Maziah.The only thing that divide the palace and this beautiful park is the fence which fence the perimeter of the Maziah Palace.
The courtyard of Istana Maziah is open to the public by the permission of the Sultan of Terengganu as a gift to all his people and all visitor for leisurely walk around the palace compound and a place to spend some time with family after hour of working.
The Laman Istana Maziah is very popular by the city folks to bring they family here for walks and some photo session in the afternoons including filming. Beside the local this place is also the most popular tourist spot in Terengganu. Tourist and traveller will stop here to see and gave at the unique architecture of the Istana Maziah and also to rest here after visiting the town are of Kuala Terengganu before visiting the Kubu Bukit Puteri (Bukit Puteri Fort) and Bukit Puteri Lighthouse which lies on top of Puteri hill. (a small fort that was build during civil war in Terengganu in 1830s) and the Lighthouse can be see on the up most righ corner of this picture.
Within the park, there are many small tree and flower that are plant here. In the early morning, the air at the ground will be fill with soft flowering scent. Here in the park, you can find unique colourful walking pavement, which had built for the conveniences of many visitor including physically challenge people to easily mobiles around the small park.
There is also a small marquee and a Tepak Sirih monument which is built to greet the visitor to the small park.. As tepak sirih (a small gold/brass tray used to keep betel nut leaves and its condiments) is a common welcoming symbol in Malay culture where since the early malay cillvisation the tepak sirih are use to serve the betel nut leaves , the monument is no doubt a sign of welcome to all visitors of the palace's park.
Laman Istana Maziah or Courtyard of Maziah Palace is a small park outside the compound of the Istana Maziah.The only thing that divide the palace and this beautiful park is the fence which fence the perimeter of the Maziah Palace.
The courtyard of Istana Maziah is open to the public by the permission of the Sultan of Terengganu as a gift to all his people and all visitor for leisurely walk around the palace compound and a place to spend some time with family after hour of working.
The Laman Istana Maziah is very popular by the city folks to bring they family here for walks and some photo session in the afternoons including filming. Beside the local this place is also the most popular tourist spot in Terengganu. Tourist and traveller will stop here to see and gave at the unique architecture of the Istana Maziah and also to rest here after visiting the town are of Kuala Terengganu before visiting the Kubu Bukit Puteri (Bukit Puteri Fort) and Bukit Puteri Lighthouse which lies on top of Puteri hill. (a small fort that was build during civil war in Terengganu in 1830s) and the Lighthouse can be see on the up most righ corner of this picture.
Within the park, there are many small tree and flower that are plant here. In the early morning, the air at the ground will be fill with soft flowering scent. Here in the park, you can find unique colourful walking pavement, which had built for the conveniences of many visitor including physically challenge people to easily mobiles around the small park.
There is also a small marquee and a Tepak Sirih monument which is built to greet the visitor to the small park.. As tepak sirih (a small gold/brass tray used to keep betel nut leaves and its condiments) is a common welcoming symbol in Malay culture where since the early malay cillvisation the tepak sirih are use to serve the betel nut leaves , the monument is no doubt a sign of welcome to all visitors of the palace's park.
Terengganu Tourism Map
plese use the Upper ones since the down one since to be Not working
here the map that i map which refer to real road and places
Istana Maziah (Maziah Palace)
Istana Maziah (Maziah Palace) is symbol of honour of the institution of Terengganu’s sultanate.
This magnificent palace is located at the foot of Bukit Puteri in the heart of KT town, and is just 220 meter from the water teeth of river/ Sungai Kuala Terengganu. The palace and mainly used today as the venue for state official functions, such as installation or coronation of The throne of Terengganu , commemoration of the sultan’s royal birthdays, royal weddings, conferment of titles and receptions for important local and foreign dignitaries
To dated they have been clashed about the exact dated of the contruction of Istana Maziah. Acording to the note by Engku Pengiran Anum, the foundation stone of Istana Maziah was laid and strted on Friday ,10:00 am,dated 31 May 1895 ( 7 Zulhijjah 1312 ) during the reign of Sultan Zainal Abidin III ( 1881-1918 ). While the note Dato’ Seri Amar Diraja Haji Ngah Muhammad bin Yusof stated that the palace was built on the year 1897.
Istana Maziah was built to replace Istana Hijau (Green Palace) which was destroyed by fire. Istana Hijau have been constructed during the reign of Sultan Omar (Baginda Omar ) on 10 March 1870 ( 7 Zulhijjah 1286 ).
The figure that had been given the responsibility of building the Istana Maziah and elected as the project manager and engineer was Tengku Chik Abu Bakar bin Tengku Abdul Jalil. He is an in law cousin to Sultan Zainal Abidin III. There were also several figure which help in the building of the Istana. Those are Engku Besar Paduka Raja Sayyid Abdullah bin Zin Al-Idrus, Encik Muhammad bin Abdul Rahim and Dato’ Mata-Mata whom was responsible together for finishing the building plan,the building of the castle ,and decorating the inside of the Istana. Most of the wood that are use in the building of the palace came from Dungun which was taken care by Tengku Panglima Besar Tengku Muda Kechik.While the stone and lime for the contruction was manage by Tengku Besar Paduka Indera
Architecturally, this brown colour 2 storeys palace is a blend of modern and traditional architecture with its tall shuttered windows that resembles a French chateau. About 20 Malay and Chinese labour who are skill worker with long year of skilful in art , wood craft, carpenter and more were involved in the building of Istana Maziah. The ingredient that are use in building the of the palace was a mixture of lime, clay, salt, eggs white and honey.
Because of the constant refrain by the lack of fund the palace constructions was many time delay but finally the conduction was finish and a “upacara naik istana” a celebration marking the sultanate moving into the new palace was held on 7 august 1903 ( 14 Jamadil Awal 1312 ).
The palace itself are one of the main attraction at the city. The palace are beautiful that many tourist came here to take picture of the palace
Istana Maziah
Istana Maziah (Maziah Palace) is symbol of honour of the institution of Terengganu’s sultanate.
This magnificent palace is located at the foot of Bukit Puteri in the heart of KT town, and is just 220 meter from the water teeth of river/ Sungai Kuala Terengganu. The palace and mainly used today as the venue for state official functions, such as installation or coronation of The throne of Terengganu , commemoration of the sultan’s royal birthdays, royal weddings, conferment of titles and receptions for important local and foreign dignitaries
To dated they have been clashed about the exact dated of the contruction of Istana Maziah. Acording to the note by Engku Pengiran Anum, the foundation stone of Istana Maziah was laid and strted on Friday ,10:00 am,dated 31 May 1895 ( 7 Zulhijjah 1312 ) during the reign of Sultan Zainal Abidin III ( 1881-1918 ). While the note Dato’ Seri Amar Diraja Haji Ngah Muhammad bin Yusof stated that the palace was built on the year 1897.
Istana Maziah was built to replace Istana Hijau (Green Palace) which was destroyed by fire. Istana Hijau have been constructed during the reign of Sultan Omar (Baginda Omar ) on 10 March 1870 ( 7 Zulhijjah 1286 ).
The figure that had been given the responsibility of building the Istana Maziah and elected as the project manager and engineer was Tengku Chik Abu Bakar bin Tengku Abdul Jalil. He is an in law cousin to Sultan Zainal Abidin III. There were also several figure which help in the building of the Istana. Those are Engku Besar Paduka Raja Sayyid Abdullah bin Zin Al-Idrus, Encik Muhammad bin Abdul Rahim and Dato’ Mata-Mata whom was responsible together for finishing the building plan,the building of the castle ,and decorating the inside of the Istana. Most of the wood that are use in the building of the palace came from Dungun which was taken care by Tengku Panglima Besar Tengku Muda Kechik.While the stone and lime for the contruction was manage by Tengku Besar Paduka Indera
Architecturally, this brown colour 2 storeys palace is a blend of modern and traditional architecture with its tall shuttered windows that resembles a French chateau. About 20 Malay and Chinese labour who are skill worker with long year of skilful in art , wood craft, carpenter and more were involved in the building of Istana Maziah. The ingredient that are use in building the of the palace was a mixture of lime, clay, salt, eggs white and honey.
Because of the constant refrain by the lack of fund the palace constructions was many time delay but finally the conduction was finish and a “upacara naik istana” a celebration marking the sultanate moving into the new palace was held on 7 august 1903 ( 14 Jamadil Awal 1312 ).
The palace itself are one of the main attraction at the city. The palace are beautiful that many tourist came here to take picture of the palace
Here u find Dataran Maziah which is located infront of the Istana Maziah .Dataran Maziah is a mini-park which are beautifully adorned with landscapes of shrubs, trees and paved walkways. In the centre of the park, stands an impressive replica of Betel Chewing an instruments such as Gobek Sireh and Kacip Pinang or usualy call Tepak Sirih.Tepak symbolising the culture and traditions of the state. This is however not a place where you can just walk in and take a photo
Istana Maziah and Bukit Puteri
Istana Maziah and Bukit PuteriThe Masjid Tengku Tengah Zaharah
The Masjid Tengku Tengah Zaharah (Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque) which is situated about 4Km from Kuala Terengganu Centre, is built on a floating platform and is also known as the "The Floating Mosque of the East" due to its unique design that creates an illusion of itself as floating on water. This magnificent and unique Mosque are named after one of the matriarch in the Terengganu Royal house, the mosque are in perfect harmony with the natural ,was touched and designed by YM Raja Datuk Kamarul Bahrin Shah, a very well known Malaysian architect who himself a Prince coming from the Terengganu royal house.
The Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque cleverly infuses Terengganu‘s traditional Malay architecture with modern design, which symbolizes the mordernisation and urbanisation of Terengganu.The pristine white plain and unadorned the mosque is unpretentious architectural stament yet bold and strong in the same time are undoubt fully the most recognisable landmark for Kuala Terengganu and the state of Terengganu itself.
It is located in the outskirts of Kuala Terengganu, It is build on a lagoon by the mouth of Sungai Ibai that cleverly gives an illusion that it is floating on the water - the first ever of its kind in Malaysia before similar concept was adopted by Masjid Putra in Putrajaya. At night, the floating affect of the mosque looks even more interesting as the mosque will be brightly lighted and you can see its reflection on the water.
Just like any other mosques, the mosque and its surrounding area is open to all. However, as usual proper attires are required especially if you plan to have a look inside the mosque - dress conservatively, no shorts, mini skirts or sleeveless. Avoid also visit during prayer times especially on Friday afternoons from noon till 3.00pm. Try visiting this mosque during the the evening when the setting sun shines on the mosque creating a lovely hue and scenic. Sungai Ibai, Kuala Terengganu.
Directions: At a lagoon on the mouth of Sungai Ibai, about 4km from Kuala Terengganu town centre.
Just like any other mosques, the mosque and its surrounding area is open to all. However, as usual proper attires are required especially if you plan to have a look inside the mosque - dress conservatively, no shorts, mini skirts or sleeveless. Avoid also visit during prayer times especially on Friday afternoons from noon till 3.00pm. Try visiting this mosque during the the evening when the setting sun shines on the mosque creating a lovely hue and scenic. Sungai Ibai, Kuala Terengganu.
Directions: At a lagoon on the mouth of Sungai Ibai, about 4km from Kuala Terengganu town centre.
The Sungai Yak Yah’s Firefly Sanctuary
The Glow fly has resided here for many-many year and its has been a major place for some Terengganu’ people, researcher and student to came here for study or firefly’s appreciation activities and marvel at the many Glow fly that habitat here. The glow fly sanctuary here was almost not known to any body except for the villager and fisherman in and near Kampung Ibok, Chukai Town at Kemaman district.
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| Tour by kemamanguide.com |
Recently our Terengganu state government in 2006 had started promoting and selling the Firefly sanctuary as recommendation sight-seeing and number one glow fly appreciation area inside the state after Sungai Penarik Firefly Sanctuary, near Kampung Penarik..
The Sungai Yak Yah Firefly Sanctuary is the biggest fire sanctuary in Malaysia. Which is located about half an hour from the town of Chukai in Kemaman. The Yak Yah river is home to the biggest firefly colonies in Malaysia. But the sightseer whom visits this river every month is less than 100 and most of them are from Japan and a few from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur , Perak and etc, which leave the firefly sanctuary almost deserted because the local authority at Kemaman doesn’t paid much attention for the tourism industry until early 2006.
When the local News paper like News Strait Time Press or (NSTP), The Sun, and Utusan Malaysia had highlight the concern and plead of the Kemaman people ,Villager of Kampung Sungai Ibok and tourism operators. When the Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Idris Jusoh found out about the sanctuary ‘s problem Our MB Dato’ Idris then had direct the Kemaman ‘s DO or District Office to ensure the habitat of the fireflies was well protected , preserved and not disturbed. and like wise the State Government Tourism Action Council’ secretariat also had now started to promote Sungai Yak Yah as the state newest attraction and building the necessary amenities needed like a jetty , toilet and etc.
To tell you the truth there was a lack of publicity on the place during the fuss .I myself who had live in Kuala Terengganu Town Center,(KTTC) for almost 10 year . Though that Sungai Penarik in Setiu District, is the only Glow fly / Firefly sanctuary in Terengganu (which Ping anchorage agency always organise a trip there). I had never heard about the glowfly sanctuary in Kemaman until the fuss from the News Paper during the end of 2005 . Even thou there was two local Che Ghani and his partner, Zainal Ibrahim, were organising firefly-watching trips since 2001.Because the fuss last year, I had travel with my friend from KT Town a weeks after the Chinese new holiday just to see for my self. There lack of road signs, no signboards or pointer along the way to inform traveller and tourist about the fireflies sanctuary’s that we tooks and insanely one hour driving and asking for pointer to the sanctuary from the local village people even though its only 11km from Chukai !!!!! .Still it was quite worth with to see the many firefly (I prefer calling them glow fly) along the river.
(2013 - There is now Good roadsign and pointer that lead to the place)
Currently there are only two local villagers (Che Ghani and his partner, Zainal Ibrahim) who dedicated their full time bringing and conducting daily firefly tours and guide for by paddleing their wooden boat as not to disturb the firefly habitat and appreciation activities.and Kudus!! for they part in protecting mother nature’s treasure. Both of them can be found at the jetty. Or you can rent a boat from the many fishermen here. In 2005 the state government and theYang Berhormat / Most Honourable DO of Kemaman Distric had banned the use of motorised boats along the river Yak Yah. .....Kudos !!
The appreciation activities can be done all around the year except from the month of October to January and the best time to go here for firefly appreciation activities is from July to September, which is the mating season for the firefly.
Currently.I don’t have any picture of the place after my last trip there my RM 1700 worth local “ I ” Digital camera went on a swim in the river and had never recover. The place are still quite unknown and with the fact that I didn’t find any picture of the place in the Web prove it. .The tour operator are not many except for village folks and those two who pioneer and had organising firefly-watching trips with they paddle boat since 2001.
Until i link the image from Kemaman.com 2013
Those “Two” are Che Ghani and his partner, Zainal Ibrahim, (Che Ghani Son also operate the website call kemamanguide.com. They now conduct daily firefly tours from 7.45pm to midnight for RM20 per person. They can be contacted at 019-9336458/013-9365681 . Their now own Fibre Boat with battery power engine which can accommodate between 10-15 people per trip. They avoid using the engine oil as it can disturbing fireflies habitat
Its is best to stay at the many cheat and budget motel and hotel at chukai as you can see how life goes on in this quite town which is quite famous for its fresh Kopi ‘ O (Grounded Fried Coffee bean + hot steaming H20 + sugar = Kopi’ O .that its taste and aroma had attract a lot of people especially those from Singapore, KL, Johor,Pahang and KB who frequently travel from the north to singapore and vice versa
Facilities:
Only basic facilities provided:
1) Main Jetty2) Slide way Jetty
3) Waiting Hut
4) Surau @ Prayer room
5) Parking lot
6) Toilet
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For your info, There is No Counter provided as it is only "On Call basis".
Make
sure you make a booking before you reach to avoid any inconvenience
happen
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How To Get Here
Arrange with local tour operator to take you to Sungai Yakyah in Kampung Ibok, about 15km from Kijal. There are battery operated boats available at the main jetty which provides an undisturbed trip to watch one of the nature’s wonders.Local Tour Operator
Please Contact
Mr Che Ghani or Mr Syaiful (a Licensed Tourist Guide)
They also offer Turtle watching experiace in Monica Bay at Pantai Telok Mak Nik, Kamaman,
at 019 917 4012 (Ghani - Malay Speaking)
or 017 928 6281/019 907 4012 (Syaiful- English and Chinese Speaking).
0730pm – First trip
1000pm – Last trip
Where To Stay
- Hotel Cukai Utama
- Awana Kijal Golf, Beach & Spa Resort
- Cheneh Recreation Resort
- New Sri Buana Hotel
- Hotel Safura & Apartments
Where To Eat
- CRR Restaurant
- Restoran Pertama Kijal Seafood in Kijal
- Kemaman Restaurant
- Mawarni Restoran
- Mohd Noor Mohd Madarsa Restauran
If you are here don’t forget to stop at Try Tong Yuan Restaurant and Kedai Kopi Hai Ping for the best fresh coffee ( in Whole East peninsular if you ask me) with toast and fresh kaya (coconut jam) spread in the quiet little town of Chukai in Kemaman district .
If you are a traveler and you wish to stay here.... you can opt to stay at Chukai where there are many cheap hotel and economy budget hotel to be found or if you had a lot of money you could stay at Kijal is you are a tourist who just want to relax you can stay at the many high class resort here.Which is also one of Terengganu’ famous green for golfing.
Fireflies Image credit - kemamanguide.com
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MOST IMPORTANT Recommendation if you are in Kemaman between feb - august
While you are in Kemaman, Please remember to make a trip for Turtle watching activities nearby at Monica Bay. Turtles watching is usually available daily during the period of Feb to August, where Green Turtle return to East Coast long coastline to lay her egg. A once a life time experience. Otherwise, you can contact Che Ghani or Syaiful (a Licensed Tourist Guide) at 019 917 4012 (Ghani- Malay Speaking) or 017 928 6281/019 907 4012 (Syaiful-English and Chinese Speaking). They will be inform you when a turtle is spotted landing and you then travel your way toward the beach at Pantai Telok Mak Nik, Kamaman, usually between 2030 to 2100.
photo credit: Ashley Harrigan via Flickr cc
Image Credit: kemamanguide.com
