Interesting Place In Terengganu

Berjaya Redang Beach Resort New Luxurious Suite

2009-12-26T00:22:00.001+08:00

New suites to woo holiday-makers
Berjaya Redang Beach Resort re-opens with two new collection of luxurious suites

The rainy season is over and Berjaya Redang Beach Resort is saying hello to the sun by re-opening to visitors after a RM40 million facelift. Now guests can avail themselves to Berjaya Redang Beach Resort two new collection of suites – Premier Suites and Oceanfront Suites – for discerning holiday makers who desire a private and serene getaway.

Designed to co-exist in harmony with the famed nature of Redang Island, these new suites provide comfort and privacy amidst tropical breeze, powder-white sandy beaches and pristine blue waters. The six Premier Rooms and 12 Premier Suites are perfect retreats targeted at couples, families and friends. The Premier Suites – specially designed with a Jacuzzi placed snugly inside the bedroom, is a new luxury which comes with a breathtaking view and the sound of the ocean right outside. There is also a spacious living hall leading to an outside balcony facing the blue waters of the South China Sea.

Both the Premier Suite (100 sq m) and Premier Room (54 sq m) can be adjoined to accommodate larger families and friends travelling together.A private check-in area and a private gymnasium are additional special benefits awaiting guests of this room category. Wi-Fi Internet services are also available, with coverage extending to all guest rooms, chalets, guest lobby and check-in area, restaurants and function rooms.
Rates for a Premier Room start from RM1,200 while a Premier Suite starts from RM2,800.

For now, you can enjoy a one night stay at the Premier Suite and get the second night free at RM2,800 nett. This price is inclusive of breakfast for two, and the package is subject to availability.

The Oceanfront Suites meet the needs of leisure travellers who prefer a bigger room space. The existing front row of deluxe seaview chalets were upgraded to make way for 12 exclusive Oceanfront Suites.

The Oceanfront Suites (measuring at 82 sq m) are made up of one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites, with six units in each category. Both Oceanfront one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites are housed in double-storey wooden chalets, featuring traditional Malaysian architectural design.

Rates for an Oceanfront Suite start from RM1,800. With the recent additions and upgrade, the 266-room Berjaya Redang Beach Resort now boasts of the largest room inventory in Redang Island.

For renquiries, contact Berjaya Hotels & Resorts Reservations Office KL (tel: 03-2141 0088, 1 800 88 3236 (toll-free) or email: bhr@hr.berjaya.com.my or visit www.berjayahotels-resorts.com

Interesting Place in Terengganu is Under Construction..Thank YOU..

2009-12-21T05:04:00.005+08:00

my Photo album account was closed... seem to be missing number of Picture...

Anyway Hope u will enjoy the new Template

e....Be right Back... : P

Upadate: if Finish ill post back the name and Hotel and budget inn List In TErengganu...

Terengganu is Malaysia’s Cultural Heartland

2009-12-25T07:02:00.006+08:00

MANY BELIEVE THAT THE EAST COAST OF THE Peninsular is the real Malaysia – it’s cultural heartland. Indeed, laid back towns, colourful villages, cattle roaming the road and resort islands with comfortable chalets, are located along and off the east coast. For many, life stands still and traditional customs are central to their lifestyle.

Travel to the east coast to forget Kuala Lumpur’s fast pace, hectic traffic and people on the move. The relaxed pace makes it an ideal place to visit and there are resorts where it’s possible to relax and even get a drink.Travel here with an open mind and you’ll be pleasantly surprised as to just how content people are with their way of life.

Just to confuse those who drive through Terengganu, the state-of-the-art petroleum and petrochemical industries around Kerteh, Kemasik and Kijal are what drive the Malaysian economy. Terengganu is possibly the state with the most contrasting landscapes and lifestyles.

All along the Terengganu coast, long stretches of yellow beaches have been home to fishing communities for eons. Some of the region’s earliest traders visited coastal ports and by the 18th century, Kuala Terengganu was well established, exporting pepper, gold, tin, camphor and sugar. Ships brought in Chinese and Indochinese silks that were re-exported by local merchants. The trade continues today from these ports but with petroleum the principal export. The petroleum industry contrasts markedly to traditional ones like batik, songket and Duyong Island’s boat building yards.

Kuala Terengganu, the state capital has an old world feel. Many merchants trade Malay textiles, metalwork and woodcraft from the waterfront district of Kampung Cina. Located at the mouth of the Terengganu River it’s best explored on foot or trishaw – don’t miss the large market. Apart from the city’s attractions like the museum, palaces and mosques, craft industriessuch as silverwork, textiles, kite making and brass work are located in and around the town.

Those looking for a beach holiday are best to head to islands like Perhentian, Redang and Kapas. While known to many divers, they are still blimps on the radar screens of international jetsetters. Dive centres are located on all and accommodation is in mostly small, locally run but comfortable chalets. Redang is a little differentas it has a large resort and now direct flights from Kuala Lumpur make access easier.

There are two main islands in the Perhentian Group – Big (Besar) and Small (Kecil). Malaysian and Singaporean divers travel here to appreciate the rich marine life and calm waters. Divers would be disappointed if they didn’t sight turtles, reef sharks and many fish species. Access is via boat from Kuala Besut, 20km. away on the mainland.

Redang is further south and access is viaMerang (not to be confused with Marang). Redang is a marine park of nine islands with some excellent reef dives. There is a Fisheries Department turtle breeding programme on Pinang (not Penang) Island just off the main island. Kapas Island is reached via a 6km. boat journey from Marang, arguably the most picturesque fishing village along the coast. Just 20km. south of Kuala Terengganu, Marang is the quintessential fishing village and well worth visiting.Kapas can be visited as a day trip but several small resorts are recommended.

Tenggol is another great diving island off Dungun that has comfortable accommodation and good facilities. The dive season for the east coast is from May to October as the monsoon at other times makes access difficult. Back on the mainland, international resorts are located near Kijal (Awana) and Dungun (Tanjung Rhu). There is a very good coastal golf course at Awana Kijal.

Roads on the east coast are mostly straight and sparsely settled apart from small villages. There is a more direct inland route south from Kuala Terengganu to near Kuantan but it’s not as scenic as the coastal road. Motorists need to drive carefully as cattle, chickens and kids also use the road. The road journey from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu can be done comfortably in five hours so the east coast is a good weekend escape. Alternatively fly to Kuala Terengganu and have your resort meet you.

Along the coastal roads there are several picturesque fishing villages lining beaches or river mouths. Some worth investigating include Marang, Dungun, Chukai and Kg. Sungai Ular where a popular delicacy keropok (prawn crackers) is produced in many – look for roadside stalls and signs. While the locals are used to tourists, traditional values are important to many and visitors need to be respectful of these often conservative
lifestyles. This really is not the place to polish up on that all over suntan and it maybe difficult to get a beer, but be resourceful – take a six pack from home. However, for those who want to learnsomething of their Malaysian home (batik, spinning tops, kite flying, etc), the locals are delighted to share their culture by .

For Foreigner that wish to know more about Terengganu or any of it State in Malaysia can go to
www.expatkl.com It a website that are maintain by Those expatriate that work in Malaysia Enjoy!!

Perhentian Island review 2

2008-10-10T20:52:00.009+08:00

RM160 escapade: Island on a budget (Perhentian ISLAND)

You don't need to be rich to holiday on a South China Sea island. For a paltry sum, PUTRI ZANINA finds a slice of paradise in Pulau Perhentian Kecil.

ALL you need is just RM160 and you can escape to a world-class island. How? Well, travel on the cheap, like backpackers do. Your destination? Pulau Perhentian Kecil, off the coast of Terengganu and well known all over the world as a backpackers’ haven.

Lonely Planet, the popular guidebook for those who travel on a shoestring budget, describes the island as having “one of the best backpacker beaches in mainland Southeast Asia”. It’s not surprising then to see a young international crowd, mostly singles, converging on the island, turning it into a small global village. Here, everyone gets into island mode – relaxing under the sun and sinking gently into the tranquility of this heavenly spot with its warm, welcoming sea.
Sins & Families

That morning, when our boat sped towards the island from the jetty at Kuala Besut, our boatman enquired whether we were going to the big island or the small island. “The small one,” we told him, referring to Perhentian Kecil, one of two islands that make up Pulau Perhentian. The big one, Perhentian Besar, is separated from the little one by just 10 minutes by boat. He smiled, his yellow-tainted teeth shining against the bright sunlight. “Itu pulau maksiat,” he said, his voice rising above the roar of the engine. We smiled at him knowingly. We knew that some locals dubbed Perhentian Kecil as the “island of vice (maksiat)” where singles and the “single-at-heart” meet, mingle and party.

The boatman then told us that locals prefer Perhentian Besar. “It is suitable for families. You can find more comfortable lodging there. Only two of you travelling together?” he enquired, looking at us as he squinted against the sun. Because he was such a nosy character, we gingerly steered him away from personal stuff and into small talk about how beautiful the sea was. And beautiful it was indeed, the blue-green sea with water glinting in the sunlight. The sweeping view of sky and sea, punctuated with little boats in the horizon, was nothing short of dazzling.

Village Ambience

About 30 minutes later, we approached the shore of Perhentian Besar where half the number of passengers in the boat, all locals, got off. The rest of us, 10 altogether, including a motley group of western backpackers, would be going on to the little island. Barely rising from above the waves, a gentle slope of white sand beach festooned with coconut palms and casuarina trees loomed into view. Our boat stopped not too far from the beach.

Almost on cue, several little boats sped towards us. These would ferry us to the shore. When we finally stepped on land, we hung on to our backpacks and walked along the beach under the searing sun. Thirsty and exhausted, we stopped at the nearest chalet. Tucked against a rocky headland in the southeastern side of the island, the wooden shacks of the Lemon Grass Chalets, well shaded among trees, beckoned like a cool oasis. It looked like a small village with traditional Malay houses built on stilts.

We decided to book a chalet there. The rate was unbelievably low. Only RM35 for a chalet for two! Each chalet has a veranda. Our neighbours, two caucasian girls clad in batik sarong tied over their bikinis, were within hearing shot! They had a ready smile when we waved and responded with a cheerful “hello!” Once inside the chalet, however, we couldn’t wait to get out! It was steaming hot inside and we couldn’t switch on the table fan as electricity was available only from 7pm to 7am.

There was a double bed with a thin mattress covered with, thankfully, a clean sheet. That was all but hey, we couldn’t expect more for the meagre amount we paid. A common bath area and the toilets are located outside. Rainwater is collected in barrels and this is used for washing, and even bathing, when the piped water runs low. Owned by Ma Hussin Yusof, Lemon Grass has been in operation for the last nine years.

There are 16 units of chalets, occupied mainly by foreigners. “Only about five per cent are locals,” said the reception staff. A quick glance through the guest-book showed that the guests were mainly students from England and other parts of Europe. We were told that some have stayed on the island for over a month. A few even worked part time at local sundry shops and snorkelling/diving centres to raise money before they moved on to other places. A few have even settled down here, marrying locals or staying with adopted families.

Famous Long Beach
On the island, the great outdoors are everyone’s playground. The action is all out there, especially over at the Long Beach. It’s the most famous and the longest stretch of beach on the island. Hardly anyone calls it by its local name, Pantai Pasir Panjang. Lazy chairs and colourful umbrellas dot the sparkling white sand beach.

If you’re taking a stroll along the beach, you may find it hard to keep your eyes “straight” ahead. But try you must, as it is rude to stare at the skimpily clad men and women sunbathing and relaxing under the sun. Here, the code of conduct is “don’t stare, judge or comment”. Just smile and if you feel like it, strike up a conversation and ask a few friendly questions.

Despite the many people on the beach, you can still find your own spot of privacy. Why, even white belly eagles seem tame and often land on a quiet spot here. Lining the beach are rustic little beach cafes and restaurants with wooden poles and nipah roofs. Buoys, flags and batik sarongs hanging from the roofs or hung on poles and walls add colour to the lazy island ambience. Equally enchanting are the names of some of the drinking joints, eateries and chalets – Matahari (sun), Symphony, Moonlight, Panorama and D’Lagoon, all of which add to the touch of romance in the air.

Do Not Disturb
We spent the afternoon sipping the island’s specialty drink, coconut shake — coconut milk or santan blended with ice and vanilla ice cream and served in a tall glass. Just perfect for chilling out in the hot afternoon. We gazed at the turquoise-blue waters, watching others bathe in the sea or set out in boats for a spot of snorkelling and diving. The surrounding waters are protected areas so there’s a thriving marine life and healthy coral gardens to admire. The young crowd on the beach was oblivious to others. Hours passed with many of them just lying on lazy chairs or on towels spread on the sand. Reading, sunbathing, sleeping or having quiet chat over cool drinks – it was each to his or her own private indulgence. Very little broke the peace of the quiet moments except for the occasional sounds of boats passing by.

Lots Of Green
For a change of scene, we trekked the hilly, lightly forested interior towards the western side of the island. Well-posted signs directed us along the trail from Long Beach to the tiny and pretty Coral Bay or Aur Bay on the western part. It was an easy 15-minute walk along footpaths through the jungle. The highest point with tall trees accorded us a peek at the sea, craggy mountainside and picturesque chalets tucked among pockets of greens. Much of the island remains shrouded in greenery, rocky land and cliffs surrounding the bays and inlets. These are home to birds, monitor lizards and bees humming among flowery bushes. Coral Bay has a small strip of beach and not too far away is the Sunset Beach. The best time to be there is obviously when the sun is going down. Watching the white sand turning gold and amber as the sun went down below the horizon made our day.

Party Time!
Walking back to Long Beach, we saw lights twinkling on the beachfront. When the sun goes down, the tempo goes up. Night is definitely not the time to retire to the chalets and catch some sleep. It is time to party! There was music and, if anyone chose, there was dancing. Certainly, there was a lot of merrymaking, drinking and dining. Beach parties are one of the island’s attractions. But we saw no evidence of purportedly “wild” scenes of drunken people getting rowdy or couples smooching openly. Instead, everyone was having a good time, eating and drinking and listening to music that went on till the wee hours.

Feeling Right At Home
Sleep came very hard but we managed to knock off for maybe two to three hours. At the crack of dawn, we were back on the beach. At that time, the island was totally seductive, the water inviting. We took a dip and found the water warm and wonderfully soothing. We had the beach all to ourselves while the rest of the island slept on. The rocky cliffs seemed so familiar then and we felt so comfortably at home. Yes, in a way we did as I am sure so many others must have felt too. But for now, we were all cocooned in our own beautiful dreams on this island paradise.
How Much

The estimated budget of RM160 covers the cost for one person on 2D/1N stay (twin sharing RM17.50 each) in a budget chalet, return bus fare Kuala Lumpur-Kuala Besut jetty (RM14), return speed boat fare Kuala Besut jetty-Pulau Perhentian Kecil (RM60), return small boat transfer (RM4), entrance fee to the island, which is within a marine park (RM5) and meals for two days (RM60).

If you travel by express train from Kuala Lumpur, you will need to pay more. Economy seat on train (RM56 return) and taxi fare from the train station in Wakaf Baru in Kelantan to Kuala Besut (about RM80 return). If you want to snorkel or dive, set aside another RM40 for the trip and RM65 to RM90 per dive. Bring more cash for contingencies and if you want to splurge a little.

Where To Stay
Long Beach: Lemon Grass Chalets, Matahari Chalets, Chempaka Chalets and Panorama Chalets for back to basic lodging. Bubu Long Beach Resort offers a more comfortable stay.

Coral Bay: Fatimah Chalets, Maya Beach Resort and Aur Bay Chalets. There are many other chalets that charge from RM10 for dormitory-style accommodation to over RM270 for room with air-conditioning and bathroom.

Most chalets don’t accept advance booking and they are fully occupied most of the time. Plan to arrive early at the island to check for room availability. Bring along a tent in case all rooms are fully booked, especially during peak season. For details, contact local travel agents offering tours to Perhentian.

Two of these are Kuala Besut Travel & Tours (09-697 4948) or Ping Anchorage Travel & Tours (09-626 2020). Lemon Grass Chalets can be reached by calling 019-938 3893/012-900 8393.

What To Eat
Beach cafes and restaurants offer both local and western fare. You can get some fairly good western food as eateries there cater mostly to westerners. Western breakfast (toast and pancakes, from RM3 to RM6), sandwiches RM4.50 to RM6, main dishes like spaghetti and rice dishes (from RM7) and barbecue (from RM10).

How To Get There
Pulau Perhentian in the South China Sea is located 20km off the coast of Terengganu. The main gateway is Kuala Besut, 108km from Kuala Terengganu (about two hours) and 54km from Kota Baru or Wakaf Baru, Kelantan (about one hour). Boat ride from Kuala Besut: 30 minutes by speedboat and 1 1/2 hours by slow boat.

Best Time To Go
March to September, but avoid school holidays and public holidays. The island is closed during the monsoon season from October to February.

What’s On
Mark August in your calendar for the annual Perhentian Island Challenge. This year, it will be from August 24 to 26. It is a multi-sport endurance race that includes swimming, kayaking, trail/beach running and water orienteering. Now into its fourth year, the challenge this year offers cash prizes totalling RM50,000.

There is a new category for first-timers in addition to the Elite category. Be there to watch participants from all over the world in keen competition. Entertainment, traditional games and food fair are added attractions.

For details, contact info@perhentianislandchallenge.com or call 013-210 9283 or 03-2142 6688.

Pulau Duyung,Terengganu2

2008-10-10T21:01:00.011+08:00

Something old, something new

Pulau Duyung

A trip to Pulau Duyong turns into a rush through history for ALAN TEH LEAM SENG as he hops from a 90-year-old fort to traditional boatmakers and a modern marina resort.

If walls could talk, who knows what wonderful stories about Pulau Duyong’s past will be revealed?

External view of a duplex chalet at theHeritage Bay Club Marina and Resort

Beautiful blooms add character to the chalets

DRIVING along Sultan Mahmud Bridge was a breeze despite the hot tropical heat. Traffic was heavy but smooth flowing.

I soon came up to a sign directing me to turn towards my destination, Pulau Duyong or Mermaid Island, one of Terengganu’s most happening tourist destinations today, thanks to the annual international sailing event, the Monsoon Cup.This year’s competition starts tomorrow, and already my mind has vivid pictures of sail boats taking to the raging South China Sea fronting the island.

All’s ‘Well’
My first stop was the Duyong Old Fort which showcased traditional Terengganu architecture. Along the way, I passed several houses that still had wells near the steps leading up to their homes.Some 50 years ago, most of the villagers in Pulau Duyong depended on wells and the Terengganu River for their daily water supply.

Curiosity got the better of me and I took a peek inside one well. What a pleasant surprise it was to find water in it still!Just then, an elderly man in a sarong came up and threw in a bucket to draw water. His toothless grin was friendly. After washing his feet, he went up the staircase and entered what must be his home. The metal bucket that he left hanging by the side of the house looked aged and was badly dented. “It must have served him well through the years,” I thought.

Fort Without Fortifications?
Duyong Old Fort was just a short distance away.

At first glance, it looked like a traditional Malay palace. I was especially attracted to the intricately carved woodwork and layout. The imposing structure, sheltered by nine roofs, is said to resemble the designs of several types of traditional Terengganu homes like Bujang Berpeleh, Lima Bungkus and Potong Belanda.

Although the name conjures up an image of strong fortifications and ramparts, the primary objective for building the fort was not to ward off marauding invaders. Built some 90 years ago during a period of peace and prosperity, the fort was erected to showcase Terengganu’s rich architectural heritage.Strong Corinthian and Egyptian influences add to its artistic allure. A few historians are of the opinion that the person responsible for the building, Datuk Biji Sura, was so influenced by visiting tradesmen to Kuala Terengganu that he decided to incorporate their art into his design of the fort.

Despite its age, the white walls hardly showed any sign of wear. Perhaps this was due to the innovative use of clay, sand, eggs, honey and lime (from cockle shells) for construction at the time by the rich and famous. I remember once reading with scepticism, in Noel Barber’s Tanamera, about the use of this technique to produce plaster that was as smooth and strong as marble. Perhaps there was some truth to the tale after all.Datuk Biji Sura was the cousin of Terengganu’s first Menteri Besar. He was well educated and began his career as a clerk at the Terengganu Court. He was later appointed a member of the Royal Council with additional duties as chief Syariah Court judge and commissioner of Religious Affairs.Boat Builders After soaking in the illustrious history of the island’s past, I made my way to see an industry that had become synonymous with Pulau Duyong.

No visit to the island would be complete without a visit to its renowned shipyards. The island has gained worldwide recognition as a centre for traditional boat making. The boats are built without the use of blueprints or plans!I watched in awe as the local craftsmen went about their task. Everything was done by hand and surprisingly, there were few modern equipment used. I approached several builders taking a break nearby.What they told me was simply amazing. It’s true indeed that they don’t use a single blueprint or plan to build a vessel, be it a giant trawler or a luxury yacht destined for foreign shores!

All a master craftsman needs to know is the type and size of vessel. He then draws on his vast experience and photographic memory to begin his work. Even in this day and age, well-worn traditional tools like axe, saw, plane and hammer are the main tools of the trade.Before returning to their work after the short break, one of the craftsmen pointed in the direction Kuala Terengganu and said “Monsoon Cup”.

I knew immediately that he was referring to the Heritage Bay Club Marina and Resort, which incidentally was my final stop for the day.Home of the Monsoon CupLeaving Duyong Old Fort and the traditional boat builders, I drove towards the Heritage Bay Club Marina & Resort with its spanking new clubhouse, chalets and state of the art yachting facilities.Along the way, I had the strangest feeling of being in a time capsule with the entire history of Pulau Duyong moving fast forward at lightning speed.

I was now heading back to the future!The Heritage Bay Club Marina & Resort was established in conjunction with the inaugural Monsoon Cup in 2005 to promote Terengganu as a world acclaimed yachting venue.

It offers water related activities like river cruises, sail tours and regattas and conducts training for community groups, corporate organisations and the general public.I headed for the Ulek Mayang Restaurant to quench my thirst and get a chance to rest my travel weary feet. Here, I enjoyed stunning views of Kuala Terengganu town and the South China Sea from its ultra modern dining area.

Even the partitions separating each table were shaped like sails!The food had interesting local names like Pulau Redang Special (foot-long chicken sausage bun), Heritage Bay Club Lekor Fried Rice with fried fish cake, Monsoon Laksa and Nasi Lemak Traditional Seberang Takir.Fed, rehydrated and rested, I went to the marina, hoping to catch a glimpse of the prize-winning boats to be used in the Monsoon Cup competition. I was not disappointed. There they were, a pair of boats inscribed “Richard Mille”, bobbing gently by the pontoon.With great satisfaction, I bade farewell to Pulau Duyong.

By then, the evening sky was a picture-perfect backdrop for the island which embodied both Terengganu’s illustrious past as well as the promise of a bright future.Getting ThereBy Air: Pulau Duyong lies a short distance from Kuala Terengganu, the capital and largest town in the State.

The opening of the Sultan Mahmud Bridge in 1990 not only allowed easy access to the island but also spurred its growth from a sleepy fishing village to a tourist destination. Kuala Terengganu is about 50 minutes by air from Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia make several daily flights to Kuala Terengganu.

Pulau Duyong is about 20 minutes from the airport.By road: Travellers from Kuala Lumpur can head east towards Kuantan via the Karak Highway. It takes about three hours to reach Kuantan. From there, the smooth driving and scenic coastal route will lead straight to Kuala Terengganu.

Those from the north, including Penang, should take the East-West Highway and head towards Kota Baru. From here, take the coastal road and you’d be in Kuala Terengganu in no time at all. From the south, including Johor and Singapore, drive along the North-South Expressway and exit at Yong Peng. From there, travel along the main thoroughfare to Labis and Segamat. Just follow the road signs from Segamat to Kuantan.

From there, it is smooth driving all the way to Kuala Terengganu.

By Sea:

Those intending to approach Pulau Duyong by sea should note that its position is Lat 05° 20.3´ N Long. 103° 085´ E. The Pulau Duyong Light Beacon flashes green (3s) while the Kuala Terengganu Light Beacon flashes quick white. Communication is via VHF listening on Ch. 16 and Single Side Band (SSB) on frequency 8124.00 KHz.

Accommodation
The Heritage Bay Club Marina and Resort offers comfortable chalet-style accommodation. There are three categories of chalets: Cemara (duplex), Teratak (executive suite) and Serambi (deluxe room). Guests have a choice of dining either at the Mayang Sari Restaurant or at the Terengganu House poolside lounge.

For further information and reservation, contact The Heritage Bay Club Marina & Resort, Pulau Duyong, 21300 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu. Tel: 09-627 7888 Fax: 09-622 9903. E-mail: info@heritagebayclub.com.

Website: http://www.heritagebayclub.com/

Must Do

Interesting sights are best appreciated on foot.

Bring ample drinking water and wear comfortable walking shoes. Wide brimmed hats will offer a respite from the tropical sun.In the village, watch the villagers go about their daily activities including drawing water from ancient wells. Then visit the Duyong Old Fort. Look out for its exquisite woodcarvings especially on the veranda. The boat building workshops are a must visit.Walk around the marina to see the racing boats on display. Along the way, stop and enjoy the bracing sea breeze and stunning views of Kuala Terengganu town across the Terengganu River. Pictures by ALAN TEH LEAM SENG

Terengganu State Museum

2006-04-13T09:34:00.002+08:00

The Main Entrance of Museum Losong

Terengganu State Museum Complex.
The Biggest Museum in South East Asia .Normally know by the local as Museum Losong which is prized by the people of Terengganu. As the largest museum in the South East Asia that houses century's worth of historical artefacts and artworks are a must visit by anyone visiting Terengganu.
Just 3km south of Kuala Terengganu towards Losong, and you will come upon an majestic complexes, the Terengganu State Museum Complex located by the river and in the hilly area of Bukit Losong or Losong Hill. At the main entrance, you will see the original (Inscribes tone) Batu Bersurat of Terengganu. The historical stone is put here as a proof of Terengganu being the earliest to be touch deeply by Islamic influence. The museum features unique historical artefacts and prominently displays the Terengganu and Malaysia's rich and colourful heritage in its many galleries including the Islamic Gallery, the Royal Gallery, the Crafts Gallery, the Textile Gallery, the Nature Gallery, the Petroleum Gallery, and also showing contemporary and Morden arts and tools and many others that are display in over 10 galleries.

Terengganu Traditional House

Terengganu was an active trading relationship with its neighbouring countries of Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia and the whole Nusantara .These influence have lent shape to the Terengganu Traditional house. The Terengganu Traditional house are famous with its Sobek woodcarving where beautiful patterns of flora and Islamic influence are infuse together to crated a and impressive house

The Grand museum, itself is an impressive architectural feat with majestic complexes covering a vast area of 27.9 hectares. The museum is gardened by the calm Terengganu river, therefore making it accessible by road or water. An old Istana or Palace of Terengganu are moved here .This historical Istana which were made by with out nail are an impressive old architectural feat of the Malay supreme woodcarving and craftsmanship. Many traditional boats of Terengganu, where some them are a few century old are also on display in the museum's compound. It can be seen far away from the rooftop of some tall buildings in the city centre of Kuala Terengganu or at the Sultan Mahmud Bridge

Museum Losong, are design and build by the famous , the well-known Terengganu-born royalties ,architect and heritage conservationist HNR Prince YM Raja Datuk Kamarul Bahrin Shah .The Muzeum were build base on the inspiration of Traditional House 'Rumah Tele'

The Tradisional Boat at the Museum Losong

The Terengganu State Museum Complex consists of a Main Museum, a Maritime Museum, a Fisheries Museum, four extinct Terengganu traditional houses, a botanic and herbs gardens. The Maritime Museum, which is part of the complex, has an impressive collection of traditional boats – many of which are locally build – dating back to the 18th century which is the Golden age of . Other displays illustrate the importance of the fishing and ship building industry in Terengganu. The Main Museum is built on 16 stilts, in accordance with the traditional architecture of Terengganu.Here vistor will find some of the rare Malay Tradisional house and palace that had been move here. Its 4 blocks are adjoined, to represent a big family. The museum was officially opened by the late Sultan of Terengganu Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah on April 20, 1996.

The museum were constructed to face the river on an east-west axis. This concept was implemented based on the fact that the traditional method of transportation is by way of the waterways (rivers). Visitors can also to accessto the Museum via the waterway(Visitor can hire a boat at Pasar Payang Jetty). For greater efficiency, a jetty for the visitors had also been built.

Bukit Losong where the museum is located has quite an interesting background. It is the place where the ancient Hulubalang /Warrior use to use this place as secret passage,shortcut and hiding place during the long forgotten war. Now The Losong/Secret passage had now become the place for seeking knowledge and delicious 'keropok lekor' and the famous “Pengkalan Keropok Lekor center”
For more information please visit the Terengganu State Museum Official Website at http://www.muzium.terengganu.gov.my/web/history.htm

The Terengganu State Museum at Losong

Forewords

2006-05-02T19:20:00.001+08:00

Forewords

The White Sandy Beaches of Terengganu

Beaches of Kuala Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu is my state capital,even thought it’s the state capital and administration center and like all town and all Villages in terengganu is unaffected by the hustle and bustle of a big city, thus making it a special place for those who alway wish a carefree and slow-good relaxing time!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Beaches in Marang

The beaches in Marang is a one of the beautiful quite beach in Terengganu and it is hily regarded as the best place to see the sunset and also to photograph the most spectacular sunrise and sunset in Terengganu. This place also offer a the most suitable spot for couple and family to walk leisurely along the long white beaches of Marang with the many Rhu tree and coconut palm swaying with the gentle and refreshing breeze . Visitor can see the Malay Tradisional fishing boat lining up along the beaches and the many fishing boat that arrive and go from The Marang Fishing Village.
There are many activites can be done here and many budget and high end resort here as they are only one beach which is the Pantai Marang or Pantai Kelulut to the local villager.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

----------------Beaches in Dungun-----------

*
*
Picture
*

*
Dungun is just as well known for its beautiful beaches as its fishing villages. Which is just an hour’s drive from Kuala Terengganu.They are many thing that can be say about these beaches ant its speciality like scenic view and such. In Dungun District you can find four Beautiful beaches which is unique in its own way such as : Teluk Bidara,Pantai Paka,and Tanjung Jara

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Beaches In Kemaman
*
8
8
*picture*
*
Kemaman is known for its the petroleum refine activities in Kerteh and the Kemaman Port which is a few kilometres outside the town centre is the main port to anchor the large oil tankers anchor.

Besides being a port city, there also the Ma’ Daerah Turtle Sanctuary Centre, which you can visit. located 1.7km sandy beach surrounded by coastal hill forest, is a newly established hatchery and interpretation centre for the conservation of sea turtles under the sponsorship of BP Petronas Acetyls Sdn. Bhd. Kemaman is also famous for its delicious seafood and traditional delicacies from the sea and most importantly the Biggest glowfly sanctuary in Malaysia in Sungai Ibok,11km from Chukai Town

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Beaches In Setiu

*
*
*
*
Picture
*
*
*
*

They are a lot of thing that can be say about the beaches here at the Setiu coastline. Some of them it the only place with many great fishing spot, Sea Food, aquaculture + tourism,Bater fish /Tempura of Penarik, Firefly sanctuary, it got Kampung Mengadang Lekor – the best and the most delicious keropok lekor in the northern Terengganu and some say it the best in Terengganu with Losong,and Seberang Takir. ( Well it based on how accustomed you are with your Keropok Lekor)

Ok! enough Crap.
The mangrove forest and the ocean near the coastline of Setiu, provide a large nursery grounds for young fish and hunting grounds for the many large game fish and ray, otters and to the many assortment of birds including the predators like eagles and owls. The Setiu beaches stretches from the Kuala Terengganu up till Besut.
with the many thing here it quite sadden that the many tourism opportunity in Setiu had lack promotion and were overshadow by the Redang Island and Pulau Bidong which in the coastline of Setiu District but the administrate of these island are run by the District officer from Kuala Terengganu District.
To the people who complain that the PBT in Setiu only care about Redang Island are not True as why they not much development in Setiu was because; Not much revenue that can be obtain by the local PBT of Setiu to run and manage and develop the district,and Redang are administrated by Kuala Terengganu PBT.
Still with the construction of the East –coast Highway, many local hope that its will be able to bring more investor to the district. Which in the end will benefit the industry in Setiu which are farming and fishing and some small scale tourism,e.g; in Penarik (Angler,Firefly sanctuary) and Merang (The gateway to Redang island) and especially the aquaculture industry. The aquaculture industry in Setiu are showing a lot of progress and future. I’m not surprise if one day, Setiu will be the largest aquaculture farm in Malaysia or even in the South East Asia as they are many projects and research that are being done here by the fishery Department and many local agency using new and advance technologies from Japan and many more countries. e.g; rearing salt water fish in a large sea lagoon or pen.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Beaches in Besut
*
*picture*
*
*
Kuala Besut is a scenic fishing village which is also the jumping off point to Pulau Perhentian. It is about 2 hour by road from Kuala Terengganu.The beache in Besut is the shortest in Terengganu about 15 -17 Km.The beache here are famous to the people of Kelantan and Terengganu for picnic, swim and also for snorkelling and cave exploration that can be found in one beache which is Pantai Bukit Keluang and Pantai Air Dalam.

Peladang Setiu Agrotourism & Resort

2006-04-11T13:33:00.001+08:00

Peladang Setiu Agrotourism & Resort Sdn Bhd.

FIFTEEN years ago Peladang Setiu Agro tourism & Resort Sdn Bhd was merely a large farm with integrated agricultural activities coup with cattle rearing, oil palm plantation, orchard, nursery and herbal plantation was its only main source of income.The resort was built and planned to provide recreational activities for Agriculture Department staff and their families.Later it was to be develop the farm into a training camp, especially for government bodies and clubs, was abandoned in the 1990s by lack of funds.However, the demand for training camps prompted Peladang Setiu Agro tourism & Resort to upgrade its boarding facilities. Beside promoting the agro-tourism concept in Terengganu.

Despite offering the cheapest rates compared with similar establishments, the resort boasts excellent facilities for seminars, camping and other outdoor activities.Its 58 chalets are located amidst a large oil palm estate where visitor can see for them self how palm oil estate are manage. Here at the Agro resort visitor can find an orchard of local fruit that can just be pick up by hand and eaten right away as they don’t use any chemical in these place. They are a lot of activities that can be done here, as the resort guess can choose whether to go kayaking, boating or fishing in the scenic and lovely fresh water fish pond or join other water recreational activities at the resort. Beside that, they can also join for an open space recreational activities that can be found in the resort like archery and stuff.

Peladang Setiu Agro tourism & Resort Sdn Bhd is the number one choice for the gorverment and the corparat sector as the facility here with its large training camp can fit a lot of people. as it has a well facilitated training camp, a fresh-water fish pond, a campsite and an open space for recreational activities and many orther activites .

Peladang Setiu Agro tourism & Resort Sdn Bhd manager, Ahmad Sanusi Ibrahim, said the resort has 32 standard rooms, 20 standard specials, three deluxe, one deluxe family, one deluxe VIP and one VIP suite. The rates are between RM100 and RM350.For seminars and meetings, there are three big air-conditioned halls, which are equipped with whiteboard, flip charts and overhead projectors. These halls can accommodate 200 seating participants.The resort also has three big hostels or dormitories which can accommodate 120 persons at any one time and a large campsite area for those who want to stay out door with nature.

Here you will find that they restaurant which offers both local and continental food to fit the taste of the many guess.Among recreational activities are abseiling, rappelling from a 70-ft tower, jungle trekking, river crossing, kayak, obstacle crossing and games.

The Gunung Tebu Forest Reserve and the Hutan Lipur Lata Payung or Recreational Forest of Lata Payung are a great place for trekking, hiking and for recreational activities. Other places of interest include the arboretum, mini zoo and fruit garden.At night, the Food Court, beside the swimming pool, sells local delicacies

The Resort also receive many guess and tourist who also rented the many room here
while on they trip to or from the nearby Gunung Tebu Forest Reserve and the Hutan Lipur Lata Payung ,for many fun activites like fishing and more with there family.

Resevation can be done by going and calling at the

Setiu Agro Resort 77A, Jalan Sultan Sulaiman,20000 Kuala Terengganu,Terengganu, Malaysia.
Phone: 09-6262020 (8 lines).

Fax: 09-6262022E-mail: patrvl@tm.net.my

To get to Peladang Setiu Agro tourism & Resort Sdn Bhd .

From Kuala Terengganu you can take the public transportation like bus at the Bus Terminal in Kuala Terengganu or the taxi to Permaisuri first before transferring from a taxi to the Agro resort. or you can take a taxi straight from Kuala Terengganu to the resort door steep.(don’t worry all the taxi driver know this resort )

Marang Fishing Village

2006-04-13T17:04:00.001+08:00

Marang Fishing Village

Marang fishing village can be seen from the bridge crossing over Sungai (River) Marang. At the end of the bridge having crossed from the southside (i.e. from direction of Rantau Abang) is a little dirt road leading into a fishing village where the fishermen park their boats and where they unload their catch.

For the keen photographer, this is a fine place to capture some of that classic 'men-at-work' series. But if you want to catch the boat to Pulau Kapas (Cotton Island), then get yourself to Marang village. Again if you're crossing the bridge from the south, about 100m from the end of the bridge turn right into a narrow road. The village is situated at the mouth of the river.

The local community is committed to bringing back the old ways. There are plenty of village activities to sink yourself into but please remember that the local folk are not used to wayward behaviour and dressing.

Marang has seen a lot of changes due to the influx of tourists in the earlier years. The general idea of many resort owners and tour operators is to pack in as many people during the peak season as possible. So much said about this, there usually are some sacrifices made.

National Park Tasik Kenyir

2006-04-13T19:09:00.003+08:00

National Park Tasik Kenyir

picture soon

Pengkalan Gawi,Tasik Kenyir (Gawi Jetty)

Taman Negara Tasik kenyir or Kenyir Lake National Park is 55 km from Kuala Terengganu and is the largest man made lake in Southeast Asia, spanning over 260,000 hectares. Its is also Malaysia Largest rock filled hydroelectric dam. Tasik Kenyir which also a part of the National Park promises to astound you with its extraordinary mix of exotic flower and fauna. Tasik Kenyir is a treasure trove for Angler and nature lover. Tasik Kenyir or Kenyir Lake got her name from one of the former main river here ,known as Kenyir River but now the river is beneath the lake when Kenyir Lake was filled by the surrounding river and especially the large rainfall during the monsoon.

Here you will find about 340 islands where some of them are as big and bigger that Singapore. This islans were created when the hilly region area was flooded most of the hill were above the water level thus creating the 340 islands which is the peak of the hill that survive the flooding during the dam first and early monsoon season..

The rain forest that cradle the area bestow the lake with an astounding and incredible assortment of flora and fauna including rare ferns, exotic orchids , hornbills, many herd of elephants and panthers. From the last research Kenyir which is surrounded by a lush tropical jungle, are home for more that 8,000 species of flower , 2,500 species of plant and trees.800 species of orchid and 300 species of fungi.380 species of birds and more than 200 species of animal.

The lake are fed by 30 rivers with 24 waterfall. Kenyir Lake has a wide variety of fresh water fish such as Baung, lampan and many large size Game fish like Tapah, Toman (snake head Fish) ,ketutu, sebarau, thus making the Kenyir Lake a popular and ideal retreat for nature lovers, anglers, photo enthusiasts and fun seekers. Here beside angling you can go for swimming, canoeing, boating and jungle trekking.

Picture soon -----------------

Cruising along Tasik Kenyir One of the many waterfall at Kenyir

Picture soo---------------------

There are many interesting Place in Tasik Kenyir and to get there your first stop will be at Pengkalan Gawi,the Gawi jetty serves as the main gateway to Kenyir Lake and there are also the Tourist Information Center located here for the conveniences of tourist. Here there are many boat that any transfers by boat can be made available to the resorts, chalets and lodges located at various parts of the lake. With the current and growing number of tourists to Kenyir Lake, the state Gov had plans and are afoot for another gateway like , the nearby Pengkalan Utama which will be equipped with bigger and better facilities.

Beside being the gateway to Kenyir lake.Pengkalan Gawi is also the nearest access point to Taman Negara. Should you decide to go to the Natinal park, it is best to remind you that like all National Park in the world, the area here are forbidden to any trespasse. The warden here are VERY strict .There was a stories that I heard from my friend three year ago when I visit the Kenyir. It about a minister who brought a group of reporter to promote the national park but was kick out by the park warden for trespassing and not first obtaining a permit from the Wildlife Department office. There are one Tourist Information Center and Wildlife Departmen office in every entrance to the park including next to Pengkalan Gawi. that can provide you with permit .

So please remember to obtain a permit from the Wildlife Department at the Tourist Information Center at Gawi jetty if you are heading to Taman Negara by Kenyir first, before u journey to the Taman Negara .The Tourist Information Center at Gawi jetty are opened from 9.00am - 5.00pm from Saturday to Wednesday, while 9.00am to 1.00pm from Thursday to Friday.

Popular Destination in Tasik Kenyir

GUA BEWAH or BEWAH CAVE

Bewah Cave is located in the towering limestone hills, the caves which provides spectacular sigh of towering limestone and stalactites and stalagmites. The Bewah cave are also know as Gua Tahi Kelawar (Cave of Bat Droppings) as the chamber of the cave is home to thousand of bats roosting upside down on the ceiling. This is one of the caves where many artefact was uncovered by a group of archaeologists in 1956 and 1970’s. the many artefacts that was found were kitchen utensil, axes and tools dating back in Neolithic era. Thus during that era this place was known as and been listed as a centre of civilisation .The best way to visit the cave is trough Ping Anchorage Tour Package by houseboat as the provide the best service to many guest for more info you can visit www.kenyirlake.com

picture soon

Bewah Cave Taat Cave entrance

Taat Cave
Inside this cave, an extraordinary sigh of stalactites and stalagmites wait the explorer. It also holds many secret of the past and further excavations are now being planned to unravel its mysteries and secret. like Bewah Cave, the cave its self are located in a towering limestone caves that are abound with mysteries as this the site where archaeologists and historians from the state museum have uncovered many artefacts that dated to the Neolithic era. Both Bewah and Taat caves lie within Taman Negara. Therefore permits have to be bought in order to enter the Park .For more info you can visit www.kenyirlake.com

Waterfall in Kenyir.

There are about 24 waterfall around Tasik Kenyir. Among the 12 most beautiful waterfall here ,Lasir waterfall and Tembat Waterfall are the most popular as they are easily accessible by boat and have many camping site that are prepared with needed amenities.

Picture soon

Enchanting Lasir Waterfall

Lasir Waterfalls
The 150 meter high Lasir Waterfall is one of the many spectacular waterfalls within Lake Kenyir. drops gracefully into multi-tiered levels of boulders forming sprays of water. Ponds of water can be found at each of the 5 levels. The waterfall its self are well shade by the surrounding forest tress that offers an enjoyable and cold refreshing bath here.There are a large flat area here is perfect for camping site. Here you can find a hiking trail leading to the top.

Tembat WaterfallsLocated at the Tembat River,The 60 foot waterfall is beautifully amazing that you can be enchanted by its flowing water and its sound that calmly flow and cascade trough the ridge and many boulder into a big lagoon. The waterfall itself is a wonderful place for a swimming and picnic. For the most adventure type you can always rent a camping gear and camp here as there is camping sites by the fall which can be accommodate the large number of people that came here everyday. You must first inform the Tourist center first if you wish to camp at any where in Kenyir Park .You can rent a boat from the many operator at the Pengkalan Gawi or through you chalet. The 50 minutes boat ride will lead you to many trail along the river that will magnificent you with its clean water and air.

There are actually more destination in Kenyi. The Information that can be obtained about tasik kenyir is from www.kenyirlake.com which is run by the most well know travel agencies in Malaysia.
Ping Anchorage , Malaysia Best Tour Operator (Inbound) & Malaysia Best Tour Operator (Domestic) 2005 and who also won two award in 2004’s Malaysia Tourism Awards

Taman Negara Malaysia

2006-04-13T19:11:00.003+08:00

Taman Negara Malaysia

soon ............article got lost x8p

Kampung Cina

2006-04-19T12:24:00.001+08:00

Kampung Cina

Foreword

Kampung Cina literary mean Chinese Village and are also called Little Chinatown by foreigner.
Kampung Cina is one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting early Chinese settlements in the world heritage where amidst colour and clutter, one can discovers stately ancestral homes, temples, townhouses, and sundry shops

Most of the description that were given out to tourist was not correct and wasn’t lengthy or deep enough and sometime non sequitor. Most of the info about Terengganu,Kampung Cina only cited only a few thing which made many people think that Kamp ung Cina is just a 200 year old Simple town .A small town section with no or litter significant other than just tourist attraction while visiting Kampong Cina
Here some of the “thing”, which are usually cited in magazine and Tourism brochure including the many tour agency website in or out of Malaysia.

“A row of 200 year old prewar old building at Jalan Kg Cina. –build by the Chinese from China –arrived in Peninsular Malaysia in the 19th century. -2 stories, with brick or concrete structure and wooden flooring in the second storey. -its wood carving on the windows and huge heavy wooden front door - some were turned into the renewed modern concrete building.The century old building are now sundry shops, local coffee shops, offices for several tour operators, batik and souvenir shops, restaurants etc..

The 200-year-old shop houses along the banks of Sungai Terengganu and the Kampung Cina’s various historical structures such as the Low They Well, the 200-year-old bridge ,Chinese Temple painted in red colour standing at the corner and the Snake Temple are gazetted as a heritage site since 2004. It is said to be one of the well preserved Chinatown Southeast in the world. In fact, it is included Unesco's heritage listing.”

N.B:
Well actually they are a very long story of it which I compile here about Kampung Cina which is now a Terengganu heritage and the fact that it is one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting heritage site for early Chinese settlements in world .

Almost all the info about Kampung Cina Was taken from: e-terengganu.com
Anyway, I make some “edit” to the article .The Original article can be found in the link that can be found at the lowest bottom.

The History of the Chinatown

Kampung Cina , Chinatown of Kuala Terengganu is the main Chinese settlement in Kuala Terengganu , situated near the heart of Kuala Terengganu city centre. In 1719 , the Chinese village settlement had more than 1000 house compared from its today row of pre-war Chinese shop houses of that which only dated as far as 200 year or its earlier dated that are recoded by foreigner like Alexander Hamilton and Captain Joseph Jackson who visited the Chinese settlement while in the Kuala Terengganu town during 1719. and other like J. Newbold in 1893, Munshi Abdullah in 1836, and more.

But the exact date of the founding of Kampung Cina is not clearly know as no archaeology dig was ever made, as to preserve the Kampong Cina site which is now a part of the city. Many who live here can be say are decendent from the first Chinese who arrive and settler here at Terengganu since the 16th.century.Thus many of it occupants treat they house as ancestral home which have many history of being handed down from their father to their children and grand children.

On the year 2004, The Government had declared that the Kampung Cina’s various historical structures and area was gazetted as a heritage site of Terengganu.

Some record of the early presence of Chinese settlers in Kampung Cina

When Alexander Hamilton and Captain Joseph Jackson visited Kuala Terengganu in 1719-1720 and 1764 respectively, the presence of Chinese settlers was noted down in their records. Alexander wrote: " Trangano ........ about one thousand houses in it, not built in regular streets, ....... The Town is above half-peopled with Chinese, who have a good trade for three to four Jonks yearly, ....... The product of the country are Pepper and Gold, which are mostly exported by the Chinese. About 300 tons are the common Export of Pepper, ........".

According to the Malay scholar Munshi Abdullah who visited Kuala Terengganu in 1836, there was a large Chinese quarter with a Kapitan Cina (Chinese leader) named Kapitan Lim Eng Huat (1798-1847), who was the third Kapitan of Chinatown. He probably saw the concrete bridge being built during Sultan Mohammad's period (1837-1839) because in his second visit here, Munshi wrote about the bridge in 1838.

Kuala Terengganu was also described by T.J. Newbold in 1893: "...... the Malay town of Terengganu in 1828 was large and populous .... The Chinese are numerous, and live principally in strong brick-built houses, which now exhibit every appearanc e of an old and long established colony. The Chinese population of the town is estimated at 600, that of the Malays from 15,000 to 20,000".

Various Chinese records and annals - dated as far back as the 10th century (Song Dynasty) have referred to the ports of Terengganu. Javanese records of the Kingdom of Majapahit in the 14th century also placed Kuala Terengganu on their list of trading centres. But no one really know the exact dated of the Chinese settlement in Kampung Cina. It is only certain with evidence that the Chinese settlement may started in Terengganu after Admiral Cheng Ho (Zheng He) of China return back to China between 1419AD to 1719AD or maybe before or around the time of Alexander Hamilton and Captain Joseph Jackson who visited Kuala Terengganu in 1719-1720.
.

It is believed that Admiral Cheng Ho (Zheng He) of China - the Goodwill Ambassador of the Ming Dynasty - led a huge fleet of about 200 vessels with approximately 28,000 marine officers and crew to the shores of Kuala Terengganu in the year of 1414 A.D. This is based on evidence from a map of places visited by Cheng Ho, during his fourth trip to the west.

Right after the visit of Cheng Ho/ Zheng He, Chinese farmers from the coast of China, especially the people from Zhangzhou District of Hokkien Province sail to Terengganu first settled at Bukit Datu (Big City), and along the river bank of Sungai Nerus. The Chinese’s forefathers in Terengganu named Sungai Nerus as Sampokang (Cheng Ho's River) and built a temple at Kampung Jeram - Sampokong Keramat Cheng Ho.

By the mid-1800s, with the booming of the Tin Mining and industries, the Chinese population of Kuala Terengganu and the whole Malaya increased tremendously as new Chinese immigrants arrived here for work. Kuala Terengganu, which is strategically located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, was a natural stopping point for those who plied the trade route from China to South East Asia in the early days. Those who fall in love with this enchanted land simply stay on while the rest, sail on to fulfil they own destiny, in places like Perak and Kuala Lumpur for tin mining. Kampung Cina became the most densely populated area for the Chinese community in Kuala Terengganu.

---------------------------------------------------%^&^%----------------------------------------------------------

Kampung Cina the Chinatown of Kuala Terengganu.

The Gate way to Kampung Cina

Today, a stroll along Chinatown from the Kampung Cina .Arch as the commencing point one has a nostalgic feeling as if he is stepping back into time. Two rows of 236 shop houses with many which dated back to the late 1800s flank the road. One of the row of shop houses is built along the riverside on the right side of the mouth of Terengganu river. Many of these shop houses have extensions to as far back facing the river. In the early days, the river was the essential mode of transport. Some of these extensions date back to times when the riverside shop houses had back entrances and jetties for loading and unloading goods from boats. Today, at the back of some of these riverside shop houses are jetties where speedboats dock.

The Low Tiey Well

At the back of the other row of shop houses you will find a hawkers selling various types of economic local food both Malay and Chinese. An old Well, which dated back more than a hundred years is also located nearby. It is known as the Low Tiey Well. During the early settlement days, the term Low Tiey meant both that of Chinese translator and Chinese community leader (e.g like Capitan). The water in the well was used for drinking and washing. The well was also believed to have been excavated and constructed in 1875 by Low Tiey Lim Keng Hoon (1820-1882).

Chinatown has been acclaimed as a part of Malaysia's living history of shop house a rchitecture, revealing a spectrum of architecture from the earliest wooden and Baroque, to 1920s Art Deco and post-Modernism all on one street. Many of the Chinese in Chinatown are the descendants of the early settlers. Till today, signboards on shop fronts prove that many of these families still live here - namely the Wees, Lims, Tans, Teos and Phuahs. You can see many Chinese characters carved on the antique Doors and Panels around here. Shop house No. 177 of “Jalan Bandar” is the "generation" home of Madame Teo. The shop house - Chop Teo Lian Hin - is today better known for its Durian Kuih (durian cake), Pulut Panggang (roasted glutinous rice) and Keropok (fish crackers) which Madam Teo makes for sale. There are many more local delicacies such as Roti Paong (small Chinese bun or bread ), CimKuah (crab cake), and Satay (sweetened roast meat) available for sale along this old Chinatown s treet. Restoran Sin Pin Siang (Ah Hong Coffee Shop) serves breakfast which includes a choice of the delicacies mentioned above. There are also several other reasonably-priced restaurants such as Restoran Chen Chen, Restoran Chan Wah Loi, Restoran Guan, Restoran Golden Dragon, Restoran Sik Wai Sin, Restoran Ho 183, Kedai Makan Soon Kee, Restoran Teck Lai, Kopitiam Cappuccino and Chef Pa Pa.

At the old Kampung Cina in Kota Terengganu.can be found the some Hui family (Pure and original practicing Muslims who came from China and are not a mualaf ) and the last vestige of the Chinese Muslim heritage in Terengganu. At one end there was a Chinese temple, at the other end a mosque. On this street there used to be 4 Chinese Muslim shops, selling books, medicine, and other miscellaneous goods. Two of the shop is a laundry shop which sold rice another one is a bookshop. Kedai Buku Al-Yunani. when the owner passed away, the sons operated it, and it became the most famous shop for religious books for a few decade.. After the son passed away his brother took over, and later passed it on to his Malay so n-in-law. Regrettably that the shop, under the new owner, has done away now with its famous name, and with it, its Hui identity. Today it still stands there but the name is Alam Akademik Sdn. Bhd. So the last vestige of the Chinese Muslim heritage in Terengganu has thus come to an end.

In Terengganu there are many Hui descendant who is totally assimilated into the malay culture after many intermarry in generation that they didn’t realize of they Chinese Hui descendent and origin. Similar to the original Hui (Chinese Muslims) from Zheng He’s time that live in Bukit Dato and along the river bank of Sungai Nerus near Sampokang (Cheng Ho's River) and the temple at Kampung Jeram - Sampokong Keramat Cheng Ho.

A visit to Kampong Cina can be a place for many Muslim and the Hui to trace back some of the Terengganu Chinese Muslin heritage like the Al-Yunani Family or Hui or Orang Yunnan as the local Malay used to call them.

if u wish to know more of the Hui
(http://www.islam.org.hk/eng/malaysia/ChineseMuslim_in_
Malaysia. asp#Early %20presence%20of%20Chinese%20Muslims%20 –%20Zheng%20He,%20the%20Muslim%20Eunuch )
Further down the road and past the old brick bridge is shophouse No. 53. It is one of the earliest brick homes in Chinatown, constructed by builders from China who were commissioned by Wee Beng Siang, a revenue farmer and the great-grandfather of the present landlord Dr. Wee Tiong Wah.
---------------------------------------------------%^&^%----------------------------------------------------------

The Chinese Temple of Kampung Cina

Two very old Chinese temples - Ho Ann Kiong (1801 A.D.) [left] and Tien Hou Kong (1896 A.D.) [bottom]- are located in Chinatown. Other than being places of wors hip, the temples were also community centres for the Hokkiens and Hainanese respectively, and temporary shelters for the early immigrants.Tien Hou Kong or Guanyin Bodhisattva is Buddhism Religion that are found in the Year 1738 in China

Further down to the end of Jalan Kampung Cina is the Central Market - or Pasar Besar Kedai Payang - where various fruits, vegetables, textiles, household goods and sundry items are displayed for sale. The atmosphere in Chinatown is one of familiarity and informality. Walking along it feels like being back to the simple days of yesteryear.

You may see Chinese, Hui and nyoya old ladies in their sarong sitting in front of their shop houses, fanning themselves while watching young children at play.

There are two kind of Chinese in Terengganu and throughout Malaysia.e.g : The new modernise Chinese and the old Chinese who have integrated with the local Malays custom. They can be noted wearing sarongs, eating Malay food in Malay style and often speak in the typical Terengganu Malay dialect.

Here you will find 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.

This is why its is important to preserve any historical site.
With Kampung Cina's potential as a tourist attraction, any infill development in the town should be in harmony with its existing structures in order to preserve the historical ambiance of Chinatown.

Tips in Kampung Cina.

In Kampung Cina , you will find many thing; from a Super,,,,Er I mean a Supermarket (The Store-The largest chainstore of Supermarket-chum in Malaysia), a wine shop , ( the exact place where the Ho Ann Kiong Temple picture got taken ). Dont miss the Chinese Small Peddler and Trader Centre or “Siow Fang” next to the “super”, here you find a lot of Chinese eatery (where you can eat till you drop or buy your greengrocery, dumpling, flower, cloth,Craft and Jed)

Beside that you can find the most delicious Chinese curry noodle or “Kari Mee” in Terengganu.(When you get out of the main Door at “The Store” ,look right .walk across the road, You will find a wooden stall with many customer-Beware very spicy!!- .

Infront /across the Kari Mee stall, you will see a peddler selling Chinese ground Soy Drink and many thing “kueh” (The best motorcycle drink stall in Kampung Cina and most warm hearted person in Kampung Cina.)

N.B.or nota bene

There is a hotel in Chinatown called Hotel Seri Malaysia built on the land of the former Malay farm Market - Kedai Binjai. the development of the Hotel Seri Malaysia branch, at the main entry to Kampung Cina was it was a blessing to provide more accommodation to tourist in Terengganu and was also protested by many people .Why? Because a decade ago, people could enjoy the view of Sungai Terengganu and the many colourfully light emitted by the many fisherman boat at night from Kampung Cina and also to do some fishing, "Now, due to Seri Malaysia, their view is blocked

Several tourist agencies such as , No.200 & 202 Square Point Resort (Lang Tengah), No.139 Redang Bay Resort, No.181 Redang Holidays, No.167 Redang Reef Resoretc are located in Chinatown.

There are also other shops -Batik Flaz, Teratai Arts and Crafts - selling souvenirs ranging from batik cloths to antiques. Similar shops can also be found at the Central Market.

most of the Info are taken from link below and for more reading please go to:

http://www.e-terengganu.com/chinatown

http://www.islam.org.hk/eng/malaysia/ChineseMuslim in Malaysia.asp

http://www.american.edu/ted/malacca.htm

Kampung Ibok's Firefly Sanctuary

2006-04-19T13:39:00.001+08:00

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.

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.


     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. Last year’s 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.

     Almost everyday when the dusk falls the colourful firefly will crowded the area with glitter like neon light throughout the 13 Km long Yak Yah river. From the guide and the local villager .... The Best place to marvel or taking picture and the best spots for firefly appreciation  is around 5 km from the jetty. Here you will be astounded to see the many berembang and putat trees there, along the river bank lit up like Christmas tree with thousand of fireflies

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.

Those “Two” are Che Ghani and his partner, Zainal Ibrahim, who conduct daily firefly tours from 7.45pm to midnight for RM20 per person. They can be contacted at 019-9336458/013-9365681

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

Travel Tips:

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 traveller you wish to stay here.... you opt to stay a 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.

Istana Maziah

2006-04-23T06:37:00.001+08:00

Istana Maziah (Maziah 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

Masjid Tengku Zaharah

2006-04-23T06:28:00.001+08:00

The Masjid Tengku Tengah Zaharah

The Floating Mosque of The East

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.

Laman Istana Maziah

2006-04-23T14:35:00.002+08:00

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.

Pasar Besar Kedai Payang

2006-04-23T14:49:00.001+08:00

Pasar Besar Kedai Payang

Pasar Besar Kedai Payang

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.

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.

The Local Trishaw that can be found at the Pasar Payang-the best way to see the city

The History of the Marketplace in Terengganu

N.B or nota bene:
Arcording to the history ,the town Kuala Terengganu had once had two big famous market; One 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 exist one large market; which is called Pasar Kampung Laut (Market of the Sea Village), situated near Kampung Bemban (which 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 are 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 are 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 )

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 greed 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.

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

Istana Badariah

2006-04-23T23:44:00.001+08:00

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.

Nur Nadhirah Palace

2006-04-26T04:25:00.002+08:00

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.

Pulau Duyung

2006-05-04T05:57:00.001+08:00

Pulau Duyung

Pulau Duyung or Mermaid Island are consist of Pulau Duyung Besar (big) and Pulau Duyung Kecil (small) this island ....,actually not really an island instead both are two peninsular that extends from the mainland and river towards the sea. Its Pulau Duyung Besar is the home and the most famous place to find the Finest, The Busiest, The most acclaimed master boat makers and The Oldest Traditional Boat Making in Malaysia and soon will be an international tourist destination.

Pulau Duyung which is only a few hectares big, sits between The Sultan Mahmud Bridge and Kuala Sungai Terengganu (Sungai Terengganu’s river mouth). Making its easily assessable by road or river.
This old-fashioned and laid-back little island can be visit on any time of the year. Among the last cache of Traditional boat maker that produce wooden sailing boat is Abdullah bin muda, a master yacht craftsman who is known and sought after by many sailing enthusiasts who have heard about his skills within the international sailing community over the world. Abdullah’s handcrafted yachts are very popular around the world that he received many orders that came from Singapore, Canada, Algeria, Australia, the United States, and Denmark, Britain, New Zealand, Italy, France and much more since his first overseas sales in 1965.

Abdullah’s handcrafted yachts or Custom Made Wooden Yachts are quite famous and remarkable as all the design of the boat are from his imagination. All the boat and yachts of the boats are dovetailed and pegged rather than nailed. All he need from his client is what do they want or characteristics of the boat on the spot that he can just simply draw out the remarkable design to his client in just minute that fist timer will be flabbergasted by his imagination right on the spot. Abdullah’s workshop which sits on a very scenic spot of Sungai Terengganu is one of the state’s most popular tourist haunts, especially for foreigners who arrive by the vanload, if not busload the workshop is located in the heart of the village in a traditional Malay house.

At Abdullah’s workshop many tourist can see how good and skill he and his skilled apprentice is at work. Which usually leave most people shock and baffle seeing how they chisel away, hacking and saw ling the wood with out even drawing or looking at any plan? They simple and languidly took the wood and start chopping and sawing straight away without the slightest or though of making any mistake.

Another reason which made him famous and much respected by many people is his loves of making boat, his modesty, this can bee seen with his modest bungalow which is just a stone throw from his workshop even thought many of the vessel that are build by his works shop are value over a quarter million US Dollar. He is a man who keeps his promise that even if the other party go back on their word and he has a philosophy is that “as long as there is no order from the owner to abort the deal, the agreement stays and the vessel will remain here.” and most importantly his laid back and honesty when dealing with boats most people cant believe that with his much sought skill and ten of million dollar worth of project in five decade his custom made yachts and boat making fee are relatively cheat except for the material. Which make him still a poor man that even thief will simply looked away from his house.

Anyone who wish to hire him had to be patient to get his order as Pakcik Abdullah doesn’t have a dead line on when to finish the order as he take extreme care and pride in making his boat that it may need a year or two to finish. The result are remunerable as most of the new owner will be awe in amazement of his job . Last year’s Monsonn Cup had cause his name more famous and had bring an order worth 5 million US dollar worth of nailess vessel and yacht and other sailing boat.

The Annual Monsoon Cup
Beside of the traditional boat making industry Pulau Duyung are also famous for its salted fish and fish cracker industry at Pulau Duyung you will find many fish are salted and than put under the sun for 4 or 5 day until it is dried.

Ok...Back to business... beside this, there is another attraction here. Which is the International Sailing Championship, the Monsoon Cup. The Moonsun Cup was the idea of The Prime Minister Datuk Sri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi who was here at Terengganu to congratulate Terengganu’s BARISAN NATIONAL for winning the election and took back the turtle state from the Pas party. During his sigh seeing in KT. The tour stop at the middle of the Sultan Mahmud Bridge to view the city’s waterfront, our Prime Minister. “Pak Lah” (as were usually called before he was elected as the fifth PM of Malaysia) suggest that the waterfront should be developed as an international stage or venue for sailing as he view the Pulau Duyung bay are suitable for sailing.

After that day Wan Hisham the chaiman of the state development of infrastructure , public amities and comuniction was chosen to change Pulau Duyung Bay into an International Sailing Venue ae The Monsoon Cup and the state company T-Best Event Sdn Bhd was form to run the event.

Last year they were a dramatic change at Pulau Duyung (as seen in ESPN on December 2005 During the live telecast of the Monsoon Cup). The state Gov decide and had built Heritage Bay Chalet, 5 star resort with swimming pool and much more . 60 unit were build during the first phase and another 60 more are currently been built to provide accommodation to tourist who want to stay at the calm Pulau Duyung and during the annual Monsoon Cup (Check the event Calendar) and 120 unit of 3 flour apartment was also build last year for rent .

Rm 60 million was spent on just to developed Pulau Duyung and its marina. The other development project that the state Gov also plan are the project to developed and establish an fishermen port, a playground garden ,shop and other building on a 30 hectares wide area.

The first Monsoon Cup was held in December 2005. But strangely.... last year the fierce monsoon season that usually strike from Octobers didn’t happen....?( still we were happy because we got to see many famous people like actor, singer and sport stat like Ferari team, Michele Yeoh, Jacky Chan and much more.It was like a festival and all suddenly Terengganu was on the world map and many dignitary from here and abroad was here at the small city of Kuala Terengganu.

To get here
To get here is very simple you can use the Sultan Mahmud bridge and take the Pulau Duyung exit in the middle of the span. From there, ask for directions to the “boat builder’s place” and walks there. You can even take a river boat ride from Pasar Payang or at the small jetty that lay just next to Hotel Seri Malaysia in Kampung Cina which both are use mostly by farmer and local to unload they produce from farm to sell here and going to Seberang Takir for Keropok Lekor and its seafood. The short ride should cost about 70 sen per person. And most importantly work at the workshop ceases by 4.30pm and it’s closed on Fridays. Pakcik Abdullah can be reached at 09-631 5072.

Accommodation
For accommodation, u can stay at a small sea facing Chalet for as low as Rm 20 per night in Pulau Duyung Besar or 3 star Hotel Sri Malaysia in Kampung Cina or 5 star Heritage Bay Chalet or u could rent the 3 storey apartment for a whole year. Both chalet blends perfectly into the village or Kampung life, that u may think that the chalet are your house that you can mingle with the local folks who sit down on small pondok drinking ‘kopi” as is u are staying with the local. The stay here will be quite remunerable. To get here you need to get to Uncle Awi yellow house. His house can be easily find but if you get lost. Uncle Awi are well know by the villager and some town folks .You can ask any of the local kid for “Rumah Awi” and they will direct you to his house. Heritage Bay Chalet can bee seen from a far which a swimming poll in the middle.

Beside the scenic spot the chalet is quite remunerable as next to Awi’s place, live Hasim who was a former sea crew and sailor who one work in the international water with various ship. Here you can find and buy and see how he made the many handcraft Wooden model of many old trading boat, Junk and many more which once strive the water of Terengganu ,Malaysia and the great South China Sea.

At Pulau Duyung also you can find an old istana called Istana Kota Lama, Pulau Duyung. Which had recently been open to the public after the timber palace was restore by a group of historical NGO foundation.

For reading about Pulau Duyung you can go to

http://allmalaysia.info/news/story.asp?file=/2003 /travel/islands/icboat

Pulau Perhentian

2006-05-04T08:15:00.001+08:00

Pulau Perhentian .
.
The two Perhentian Islands, Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar are two of the most beautiful islands in the world…a virtual paradise and haven for snorkelling and diving and also a haven for those who doesn’t want or for those who were almost pelt to Deaf by the incessant crazy techno beats being belted out from every Thai island.

Believe me that your first glimpses of the Perhentian islands will be pretty breath- taking (make sure you ready your camera first)

Perhentian Islands can be located 25 km from the coast of Kuala Besut in the South China Sea. It consists of two islands, Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil. Both islands, which have white-lined shores, and are surrounded by beautiful coconut palm, which fringe the island’s white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise-blue sea.

Making trip to this lush and exotic tropical island is a must for all underwater photographers and nature lovers and a haven of virtual paradise for those who enjoy swimming, scuba and snorkelling, skin diving, Underwater diving, deep sea fishing, wind surfing, sailing, boating and kayaking .

“A lot of people especially tourist misunderstand that these two islands fall within the governance of Kelantan.... all because it is located at far northern of Terengganu and near the neighbouring state, Kelantan. Making its worst further more, the accessible point is through the jetty in Kuala Besut, a small Terengganu fishing village but with a lot of Kelantanese culture, therefore many people actually thought that they are in Kelantan as what more is that all of the people here speak only the Kelantaness malay dialect...sigh!!”

In those days during the old time ,The “Perhentian” or “Stopping post”they are called because of the role they played as a post for traders and fisherman from Siam and local (Today’s Thailand).Because they are only two island and are different size in the area, the people called its Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil ,where the “Besar” and “Kecil” stand for Big and Small to different which is which.

Both the“Perhentian” islands are separated by a very small and narrow strait that contain the most crystal clear water at the island. But!! beware as the current is quite strong and no swimming and Kayaking are allow!! There are a lot of different between those two islands. Perhentian Besar is more of a vocational island whereas the small one is an island with the mixture of vacation mood and with local lifestyle due to Kampung Pasir Hantu a fishing village which is resided by more than 2300 villagers with completed basic facilities and also resorts and chalet and bungalow guesthouses.

The home here are randomly distributed in Kampungn Pasir Hantu. All the house in this Kampung remain in their original plain wooden colour without colourful paint ,except for the white and blue marine police station, Red and Yellow Klinic ,assembly hall and the school. because the clear blue sea and sky and also the palm trees are the best contrast and complementary.
All the bungalows/chalets that are on Pulau Perhentian Kecil are not on the beach! Here you can find convenience shops, local coffee shops also souvenir shops and soon a cyber café and etc. in the village. There are a lot of T-shirt, caps and batiks hanging and flapping by the breeze outside the shop and coconut trees waving in the wind Here you can find tourists who do not go out for snorkelling or diving will hang around here in the village or lay in their hummock.

It will be a waste if you come to Perhentians without paying a visit or have a glimpse to its abundance marine life. There are a lot of good diving or snorkeling points around Perhentian Kecil: like D’Lagoon, Gua Kambing, Panglima Abu, Batu Nisan, Tanjung Butung and etc which you can find a lot of Colourful crown fish, angle fish, shark, Christmas tree, Deer Horn Coral, Sea cucumber, sea urchin, squib, turtle and more

…..Colourful marine life in all shapes and size which will be fascinating the underwater world.

The crazy squire at action

The interior of Perhentian Kecil are surrounded by flourishing tropical rainforest with a wide variety of wild life especially the wild and Crazy Chip and Dale“Tupai” or squire who will steal and eats your lunch under your own very plated which will make many delight in your lazy day.

Here you can jouney on a long trekking or a short and simple one. The Trails break into several parts. along the track. There are flora and fauna and also some wild Crazy Chip and Dale .monitor lizards, monkeys, geckos, flying squirrels, butterflies and many other types of animals in the jungle- sometimes right in front of your chalet that might impress or bring you much surprises.

The track start at Pasir Panjang and head to Aur Bay at the west side which takes only about 10 minutes. Then if your are not satisfy and want to go further from just Aur Bay .Head down to beaches in front of a local run chalet, called Mira Chalet to a trail connecting Mira Chalet with the fishing village. This part of trekking involves some climbing up and takes nearly 1 hour for you to reach Kampung Pasir Hantu and 1 hour back or if you are tired you can always look for a boat to give you a lift back.

There are rocky caves hills in the jungle which attract swallows to build their nest in this area which also bring some side income to the villagers who collect the precious bird nest from the caves. The bird nest collected here is just enough to serve the local market which is the resort.

Other than several recently built resorts, the rest of the guesthouses are in small scale with only basic facilities that stretch along the beach.
Perhentian Besar has longer and wider beaches and finer sand than Perhentian Kecil. Most of the beaches are distributed to its western and south eastern side, Teluk Pauh, Pasir Panjang, and Teluk Dalam are the most famous and popular beaches here..

Though accommodation is distributed over the beaches, Perhentian Besar is still covered by a lush rainforest. To the end of the beaches, you can find coconut palm in the white fine sandy beach and the crystal blue sea.
The island is gifted with turquoise water and many colourful fish, Standing in knee deep water u can witness many colourful fish swimming around your legs and little shark which sometime NIBBLE YOU TOE!! and small baby ray which may make u heart jump if you step on them :P.

To the south of the island where there is a beach separated by rocky edges. You can always find fantastic and colourful coral near the rock.If you want to snorkel there please bring a companion and stay far away and pay more attention when you swim near to the rock as the strong wave here can crash you to the sharp rock .

There are a number of trails leading from one beach to the next overland. you can choose to take the jungle trail. Anyway, all the treks are clearly marked.

The jetty at Teluk Puah, near the entrance of Perhentian Island Resort is an ideal place to go if you want something different than to lay on the lazy chair listen to waves and watching the stars in evening. Here during the evening time, the jetty light attract many squib that u can join in with other tourist and local at the jetty in“candat sotong”or “Jigging for Squib“to fish for squib” as all you need is just a line or a small rope with a hook or a pin and then u can go and BBQ your catch.(pls refer to Pulau Kapas). Sometime there are small metal or rattan cages or “BuBu” in the water with blue sea crabs inside. The BuBu is simple traditional trap set by the islander to catch crab.

The jetty is an ideal place to go if you want more than just laying on the resort lazy chair listening to the crashing waves and watching the evening star

Getting there

First, you must arrive at Kuala Besut for you to take a boat to the islands. To get to Kuala Besut, you can arrive from Kelantan or Kuala Terengganu. If you come from Kuala Terengganu, take a bus or taxi to Jerteh then another to Kuala Besut, or a direct bus to Kuala Besut. The journey will take nearly one and half hour.

Alternately, you can choose to start from Kota Bharu. You can either take a taxi ride or take a bus (leaves every 30 minutes) to Pasir Puteh and then another bus to Besut. Overall, the journey by taxi will take about one hour from Kota Bahru to Besut.

There are direct buses from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Besut which take about 9 hours.Or Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Bharu Aiport (35 minutes) from then on take a airport taxi to the Taxi terminal(25 - 50 minutes of congest Traffic) or Bus terminal(35-45 minutes) and looked for ride to Kuala Besut..

Journey to the islands takes about 30 to 45 minutes by speed boat and one and half hours by slow boat. There are a number of boat operators in Kuala Besut offering boat services to Perhentian Island. The return boat ticket cost RM60.00 per person for speed boat and RM40.00 per person .

Make sure to put heaps of sunscreen and a big thick book for company. The journey are relatively stress-free, Except the bus ride from KL to Kuala Besut, and a 30 min boat ride (fast boat, expect to pay more than the 1 hour slow boat) to Perhentian Kecil..

Warning :

Don't Wear Sunblock and Cream while Diving.This is becouse ,the chemical that are emitted from the Sunblock can kill THE CORAL and other MARINE life.

Please Help Save The Coral!

Spread The Word!!

Pulau Lang Tengah

2006-05-04T08:30:00.001+08:00

Pulau Lang Tengah

Two or Three year ago most of the traveller that came here to Pulau Lang Tengah are consisted of mostly German, Japanese and European, also some Australian and a few local. This is because most of the publicity of the island was done in overseas markets instead of the domestics as sadly to say this; but because many Rich Malaysian here are lack in awareness of their action toward the nature. This is quite evidence in Pulau Perhentian where u can find many of the coral near the shore are damage by they clumsy fin and standing on the coral and stupid boat operator. Perhentian island perhaps in 10 year time, soon will only be remember in picture like Rantau Abang,

Pulau Lang Tengah or Lang Tengah Island off the coast of Terengganu were hidden in
the shadow of its neighbours; Perhentian Island in the north and Redang Island in the south.
This pristine little island is one of the nation's well-kept secrets for almost five year. The Isle’s beautiful coral and its underwater secret were kept and share only with close friend.

Only true diver and most of the local dive master here and nature lovers knows of the secret of this tiny island as to kept it’s safe from ignorant people especially from the large majority of ignorant and big spending city dweller who only want to have fun but not really to amaze of what’s the nature have to offer. Most of these ignorant people came from KL, Penang and sadly, the Terengganu’s people its self.

The secret that are kept as long as possibly; were broken out too to many people in the past year, which in the end ended in sadly and joy. With the launching of subsequent resorts and last year by the launching and promotion by the state government to develop its economy and future, this tiny little island was put inside the tourism map as a new destinations and products for the tourism industry.

Sadly, to say many of greedy private agencies had started to see the gold value of this magnificent blue coral island.That these greedy agency now offer many , packages tours for the rich, with accommodation either in Pulau Perhentian or Pulau Redang. A lot of the boat operator hire by these private agency are not local and are irresponsible bunch , there just drop anchor near and some even drop anchor on top the coral as a convenient for rich tourist who stay at five star hotel in Redang or Perhentian ,hoping they will be given a large tip for they effort. (Shame on all of you for tip pings this kind of people. )

This has couse a lot of anger to many nature lover who had for long time had tried to protect its wonder. However, as compensation, the island is now a fully protected marine preserve. Where; any future construction on this island will be monitor and study closely of their impact toward the eco system and nature. and patrol boat patrolling its . However, I do not think they shall be any resort to be built here. Since the entire beach here had already been, resided

Today, more tourist and some Malaysian faces can bee seen on the island. But we are quite glad that, Some of the resort here are friend of the nature. Here you can find only room with only the basic accommodation of fan, hot water and some common room equip with TV and small karaoke room and some air conditions. Here the variety of food is modest with normal mixture of Western and Asian and local dishes offered .The island its self is less developed and the land and beaches is limited .Which is much as away of a deterrent against party headed tourist .

The less crowd on the island, an effort by the local resort have made the Blue coral sea and the rugged green hill  of Lang Tengah Island  a wonderful  and  pleasant  world and heaven for snorkelling ,diving and nature photographer .
The reefs here are very 'alive and untouched'. Even by snorkelling, ones can already see so many beautiful  soft and hard corals ,and fishes. Here you can find large area of  Blue Corals or Dark Purple Fan shaped which looks like a huge blue purplish taupe under the sea just laying underneath the shallow sea in front of the, Blue Coral Island Resort, which is the reason for the resort name.

The Pulau Lang Tengah, Here in Terengganu the bird; “Helang” or eagle are called “Lang” and Tengah means “Middle” as in the middle between Perhentian Island and Redang Island. The sea at Pulau Lang Tengah is the main road used by most fisherman since long time ago and still use today to go and return from the South China Sea. According to the local stories , the island was called Pulau Lang Tengah first by the Bugis and fishermen because they were a lot of ‘Lang’ can be seen in the area of the middle of the three island.

The first glimpse of the island and its tiny beach may make you think that you had been hag by your resort and your travel agency. this is quite true if you plan to just have fun and party  as the beach here are only as wide as volley ball court. Even the view here are not very scenic except for the dark green hill and some swaying coconut palm. But then it is quite a good setting for most book worm, This is how Mother nature protect Lang Tengah secret.

Decade ago many of the people that travel to this island were nature lover ,who came here to stroll along the small white sandy beach and bath under the sun for coveted golden tan and exploring the untouched tropical jungle in an island that they can claim as they own. While exploring the island shore, they were shocked and captivate by its secret. They later share its secret with close friend and they dive master, later it catch the imagining of some of the nature lover who was amaze with it. Later came the diver with their dive master, resort, the foreign, the newspaper and now the Travel agency

The crystal clear greenish blue shallow water, will simply captivate you when u see its under water secret.
The arresting beauty of the magnifecnt soft and hard coral and the bio-diversity of marine life is very splendid!! That it cannot be describe by word. If u want to know its under water secret its best you booked with the resort and stay there for 5 day.

Here you can go on a guide jungle treck which run up to some hills and beautiful bay. and maybe climbing up on the magnificent rugged rock formation along the coast where in the late evening you can see the many fishing fleet returing from their modest catch of the day.

Getting Here:
By Air :Malaysia Airline System (MAS) & AirAsia operates services direct from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu. The flight takes about 45 minutes. Taxi service is easily available from Kuala Terengganu to Merang jetty.
By Road : Express buses and outstation taxis offer regular services from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu. The trip takes about 7 hours.
There are many buses, coaches and taxis commuting between Kuala Terengganu town and Merang Jetty.
Public Transportfrom Kuala Lumpur

Destination     Day     ETD / ETA     Fare
Kuala Lumpur / Kuala Terengganu      Daily     2245 / 0645* next day     RM26
Kuala Lumpur / Kuala Terengganu      Daily     2330 / 0730* next day     RM26
Kuala Lumpur / Kuala Terengganu     Daily     2000 / 0400* next day     RM26
Kuala Terengganu / Kuala Lumpur     Daily     1100 / 1900      RM28
Kuala Terengganu / Kuala Lumpur     Daily     2200 / 0600* next day     RM28

from PenangDepart daily at night from KOMTAR or Butterworth stations to Kuala Terengganu. Journey: 8 Hoursfrom Johor BahruDepart daily (10:00am, 9:00pm, 9:30pm, 10:00pm) Larkin Station / Hentian Kompleks Pengangkutan Awam to Kuala TerengganuJourney: 10 Hours Tel: +607-2245182, +607-2220045 Fare: RM28.60 (adult) / RM14.30 (child) from SingaporeDepart daily (9:00am, 8:00pm, 9:00pm) Singapore (Lavender Street/ Kallang Bahru Junction) to Kuala TerengganuJourney: 11 Hours Tel: +65-62947035 Fare: RM51.90 (adult) / RM25.90 (child)

Pulau Kapas

2006-05-04T08:33:00.002+08:00

Pulau Kapas.
Pulau Kapas or Kapas Island, An island famous for its clear waters, sandy white beaches and swaying coconut palms, it is relatively isolated. Home to an infinite variety of hard and soft corals, the waters around the island abound with seashells, fish and turtles and are famous place for bird watching.The island's laid back atmosphere is ideal for relaxation but the more adventurous will find it is also a haven for swimming, snorkelling, windsurfing, kayaking, boating and fishing. Kapas has somehow become the refuge of those who refuse or could not join the Perhentian' crowd. The island is favourite with the local people in the very high season and the public holidays.

The island is just 4 nautical miles or only 6 KM in front of the Marang jetty and the fishing village of Marang. The nice little Kapas Island is visible from Marang jetty at all weather. The name “Kapas” or cotton came from its island which inherited the white powdery beaches which looked like 'kapas' or cotton . The Kapas island is a small island, with just over 2km long and 1km wide.

It's is an ideal place to break away from the busy hectic day. Kapas Island is about easy access, cheap, choices and plenty of accommodations available on the island for travellers to chose. Places, to stay ranging from camping sites to dormitory to island resorts with en suite facilities.

Here at the island you can find many small animal ,bird and reptiles.The Famous animal in Kapas Island is the famous song bird called “Murai Batu” or White-rumped shama (Copsychus malabaricus) . This song bird is reputed by most local as to has 23 different and equal beautiful melodies in its repertoire.

On the long stretches shallow water of island's western shore that u can snorkel . You can find many colourful reef and coral which extend out into the deep blue sea This area offer a lot for snorkelling and diving as the water here are warm and very green light blue water that are Crystal Clear but it advisable to wear a jacket is you are not a swimmer . During the low tide, some part of this shallow area can be a vast shallow area of just only a knee deep which is very dangerous. Don’t be temp to walk on any vast shallow water. (why? just read on)

The Variety of this little cotton island. has to offer to see are too many that Green ones who snorkel here may often find them self ,lose track and get trapped in shallow water during low tide which is quite dangerous .( Please Read The Article About The Danger of Walkable Shallow Water. in the Danger and safety precaution.)

The Kapas Island reef is a safe haven for abundance of beautiful marine life and coral. Which is blessing to most diver and snorkeler to find the such as unique parrotfish, Nemo, Yellow tang, angelfish, ray, Percula clownfish, sea snake, ells, giants clams, sea turtle and sea terrapin and other dangerous sea life like Fire Coral, Puffer fish, Sea Urchin, Starfish , Tiger fish, jelly fish , octopus (which sometime try to drown u by holding on you face) and the such.

Kapas Island is a good place for diving .as there are a lot of popular and favourite diving spot . A World War Two shipwreck located 5 nautical miles offshore is the key attraction to most of divers that frequent here as to photograph and gaze at the past . The popular and favourite diving spot for diver is the outer reefs on her seaward. The water of Kapas island also contains artificial reef of illegal fishing boat that been sunk here by the authority and private party to promote the developing of coral reef and also increase the fishing stock in Marang District

Only thing that never change on this island is the constant number of backpackers arriving and departing each day. May - August and the local holidays are the best times to go ,May till August is the squid jigging season, During this period of time you can go for squid jigging activities which can be arranged by any one of the local chalet here during the evening.

The boat operator who is on a Squid jigging “Candat Sotong” trip will rig his boat with many neon light or florescent tube around a few long pole stuck on both side of his ship Roof like a big Wing. The many light that illuminated the water, will attract squibs to gather in the shaded area under the boat. You can start your squib jigging by let your little jig drop into the water about 1 or 2 feet and start jerking the line about 3 of 4 time, then pulled it up a bit till you saw your jig and then letting go.these step are done repeatly .squib bite you jig when it fall and very sofly .it u felt you jig a bit heavy ,quickly give a gentle jerk, but don’t jerk with all your strength as you don’t want to see your friend in the boat to be attack by your flying inking squib,

Don’t be startle by the ink that been squirted out when you raise them out of the water as this is normal.

Like fish ,squib came in school,that if you saw that many people start catching this mean they are a school of squib under your boat,this is when your boat will have a fiasta of squib that u need to be quick on getting off the squib from the hook for the nex jigging before the school jet away. If the boat is very lucky, the boat’s ice container will be full of squib in 30 minute.

After your come back from your jigging trip you can have your fresh squib, BBQ or just Fried them or eat it raw like the local do.
I mine experience Makcik Gemuk Chalet is the best place to stay .
Getting there
From KL take a the daily flight offer by Malaysia Airlines or Air Asia to Kuala Terengganu Airport

Get a bus or a taxi (Rm 25.00) from Kuala Terengganu to Marang which is 10 km south. Then get off at the jetty.
There are plenty of boat operators at the jetty. Some of them take accommodation reservation or booking as well as snorkeling trip apart from boat ticket. You can book a room here or wait until you are on the island. the boat trip to the island takes 20 minutes.

Pulau Redang

2006-05-06T06:08:00.001+08:00

Pulau Redang

The Seaview from Laguna Hotel at the Pasir Panjang Beach

Pulau Redang also knows as Redang Island is located 45 km off the coast of Kuala Terengganu in the South China Sea or approximately 45 minutes boat ride from the famous Merang (wooden Jetty ) to Redang island .The Jetty is situated at the fishing village of Merang. The fishing village is North of Kuala Terengganu.

Redang Island gazetted as a Marine Park back in 1985, and enjoy the protection of the Department of Fisheries of Malaysia is one of the 8 isle in Terengganu that top The 10 Most Beautiful Island in Malaysia. Redang is also one of The Most Beautiful Island in the World and are among the Best Known and Most Famous Gem Haven for Diving Activities for Tourist and All Diver all around Malaysia and the world. Redang Archipelago, exists of 9 islands ( comprises of Pulau Redang, Pulau Pinang, Pulau Ling, Pulau Ekor Tebu, Pulau Kerengga Besar, Pulau Kerengga Kechil, Pulau Paku Besar, Pulau Paku Kechil and Pulau Lima.) that abound with stunning marine life and coral reefs that ensure great snorkelling and scuba-diving. Your fist glimpse of the isle will leave you spell bounded by the Postcard scenery and instantly captivated by the lush green carpet of vegetation that covers the gently sloping hills

Immediately upon arriving at Redang, the light blue water offers an enticing temptation to 'test the water'. A big mistake that are frequent by unsuspecting visitors and most first timer and once including me : P .Where u will find your self deceived by Redang's crystal clear water.

Many are deceived by Redang's crystal clear water as the sea at Redang archipelago are special! The water visibility here is about an Outstandingly 45 feet!!. When the sea is very calm it can get up to 18 meters, that's Over 54 feet. Which many will find it Unbelievable!! (which is a Bonus for diver and snorkel)

Why? you ask? well....

“Try imaging seeing many people sunbathing along the Beach and then your boat just arrive near the shore and with out waiting for completed stop And for a great Entry with your khaki short ,shirt and wearing a hat and a sunglasses .You jump into the knee deep crystal clear water like everyone.. Later .. only to find your self your self standing in a shoulder deep water than expected and had to walk up to the shore and endure the laugh of the many beach comber and (when you see somebody checking in at the counter with wet attire...your will know what had happen to then : P ”

I have seen some for at very calmly and just trodden trough the water and up to the beach.... as if nothing had happen. Still it can be a horrible night mare for children and women...i had seen those who took lightly on the boat opperator advice about Redang's crystal clear water. Once at the beach I saw a boat had just arrive in front of resort..a women lift her skirt (Why in hell that any one want to wear skirt on a boat Each Time!!!) and took a step and plunge/ Walk the plank into the sea like a rock with her skirt like umbrella up to her face. She was shock and went on panicking in the water that it took almost an hour for her to calm down...in the resort.

So for those out ..You had read my warning. Make sure you pay attentions to the boat operator Warning.

The Famous More-More Inn

The paradise-like island, surrounded by majestic green hills, the Shining white sandy beach ,the crystal clear light turquoise sea water with the temperature range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius during the day and with Mother Nature gift of a breathtaking scenic sunset give an unforgettable soothing calmness and relaxation sensation to people at the Redang island. The isle is rich in diverse
forms of colourful fishes and abundance marine life swimming gracefully around the world's most mature coral gardens.

The water here is very crystal clear that even On the seafront visitors can even see the many beautiful corals and a variety of fish from the beach. Don’t be shy to rent Diving and snorkelling gear from any of the resorts or any operators on the islands .even if for just a while in the water to have a closer look.

Things that you can sea at the shallow water

At the shallow water around Redang isle u can see many large variety of marine life like the clown fish, many Colourful parrot fish,some reef shark, stingrays and other small fish brightly lit like colourful neon bulbs. Amongst the corals near the shore and rock, one can see all kinds of shellfish, sea anemone, and Gamat (sea cucumber).

There is also a protected marine park at Island, which many people found enjoying for snorkelling, in Redang Marine Park, you can find a many colourful array of spectacular marine life . There are small and big eel to be find living here amid the coral, giant black and brown grouper, black tipped shark. you may also encounter with the some or lonely Green sea turtle and Hawksbill sea turtle, pufferfish, angelfish, damselfish; eels; giant clams; rays, sea urchins, sea cucumbers . Don’t be scare if u bump into with our “Bapok Bayan” a The Biggest Green Humped parrot fish in Redang Marine Park, who usually frequent here with its gruesome teeth and a big lump on its forehead that forage coral. This particular ”Ikan Bayan” is at the size of a small build man, making the shark here look very harmless : P

In the protected marine park, there are corals of every imaginable shape, size or color like multicoloured Christmas trees coral, standing like a guardian to the sea. Who will fold up and retract back into the rock and them gracefully popping back again. or Staghorn Coral field, some very big size clamp ( never touch them or it will owned You!!) , taupe shape coral, nudibranch with reef shark, stingrays and other small fish brightly lit like neon bulbs.

If you are sharp-eyed diver, will be rewarded with sights of flatworm, shrimp, squid, cuttlefish, stonefish, Dangerous Lionfish, lobster and pipefish.
A word of caution to visitors: No fishing is allowed within a 3.2 km radius of the island and any Fishing, damaging and removing of corals and other marine life are strictly prohibited and the penalty for breaking the law includes jail and fine.

The Marine Park Headquarter

The Marine Park Headquarter is cited on Pulau Pinang which is in southern of Redang Island . Here is the where officer and patrol boat from Department of Fisheries of Malaysia are place to protect the marine park to inspect and supervise all activities in this area. There are also a few chalets that are built overseeing the sea which can be rent and enjoy by only government civil servants.

The sea here are very calm that u don’t need to be a good swimmer that u can go rent a life jacket , snorkel, and diving gear at any resort and jump into the sea (except no jumping at the Marine park)

One of the many Lion Fish at redang

Plenty of good snorkeling and diving sites can be found here like; Pulau Kerengga Besar, Pulau Kerengga Kechil, Mat Dollah, Pulau Paku Besar, Pulau Paku Kechil , Tanjung Tokong, Turtle Bay, House Reef, Marine Park Headquarter, However, deep sea snorkeling is not necessary though there are 2 snorkeling boat trips to bring you to any of these area.

A diver with the beautiful sea turtle at Redang water

The water around Redang isle also offer many perfect diving spot including two historic shipwrecks The H.M.S Prince of Wales and the H.M.S Repulse that were sunk here by the Japanese Imperial Navy at the start of World War II, setting the stage for the Japanese occupation of Malaya.

To do a diving trip here, you need to book with the dive shop at any of the resorts that offer its. Even non diver can sign up for a scuba diving course and lesson on the spot. Check up for the detail of the fee charged.

The trekking in Pulau Redang and its Village

Redang Island is still a very much covered by the Rainforest, thank for the government and local islande effort. The ideal time for going for a trekking is at a round 7’o’Clock in the morning. Where you will find the air very fresh and protected by the Strong heat of the morning mist.

The trek that u can find here is about 2.5 Km trail that lead from Pasir Panjang a beautiful beach to Teluk Dalam, where u can find a Kampung or village. The trail at the hilly island of Redang is fascinating in its own way.Make sure that you bring a camera.with and extra role of two. The trail is well marked and trodden as this place is a favourite path for local and some staff on the island that you may meet during they morning Jog. During you journey you may encounter a small stream and a pool alive with local Catfish,If you are lucky u may encounter Redang’s unique wildlife but harmless animals such as the shy Kancil “mousedeer” looking for food .(please don’t surprise or scare them as the Kancil here are can easily day offright...No..joking.!!) .

Sometimes there might be long tailed macaque monkey hanging on the trees staring at you,sometime on the tree you can find flying squire, along the way you will see many wonder that are created by the mother earth and also a very beautiful and scenic view of The tranquil and isolated bay of Berjaya Redang Beach Resort is accompanying by snowy white sandy beach . the trail will end at Berjaya Redang Resort

Following the properly sealed road will lead you to the “Kampung Nelayan” Redang Fishing village.The village here you can find house that are Centered around a small mosque which sits up on a small hill. You can find a mamak stall or local Restaurant for some humble food for a change ,Mee Goreng (Fried Noodle) , a cup of KoPi Kaw ( coffee ),or you could tried the famous Nasi lemak and Roti Canai here .

The most beautiful beach at Pulau Redang - Pasir Panjang Beach

Unknowns by most people,The island’s finest beaches is in the Pasir Panjang beach, and from my point of view, the beach surrounded by majestic green hills that cast a shadows in the simmering sea with a magnificent shoreline of fine powdery white sand and a coral garden immersed in a clear blue sea is a perfect getaway for holiday seeker.

As a bleesing ,I was not the only one that felt that way, as a couple of year ago a big and magnificent resort was build here, The Laguna Redang Island Resort are the only resort built here. The low-rise resort retains a ‘modern paradise concept” that cleverly infuses Terengganu ‘s traditional Malay architecture with modern amenities and yet is in perfect harmony with the natural greenery. that even I who went they at august 04, cant help at marvelling at the unique and finely design of the resort which has 300 rooms and suites (with private balcony) either fronting the beach or a well-landscaped garden that are touched its designer, the well-known Terengganu-born royalties and architect HNR Prince YM Raja Datuk Kamarul Bahrin Shah.

If you are going to Laguna Redang Island Resort, you will love the dining experience at the seaview Ala-Carte Restaurant which serve local and continental cuisine and after dinner you can enjoy a walk along the beach under the beautiful and panoramic view of the stars.

The resorts also have a nice open disco, private karaoke lounges and indoor beach club which features live entertainment that u will enjoy and they have such a nice staff.

From my experience you will find a lot of thing to do here that are provided by the resort like Snorkelling,island excursion, a sunset cruise, Fishing trip or diving trip in the day or night, thre are also a lot of recreational water sport that u can join or a jungle trekking from where u are to Teluk Dalam on the otherside of the island.

The language

You wont to worry about the language here as just about everybody here speaks English, since its compulsory subject to be learn in all school in Malaysia. There are also school, police station and a Goverment Health Clinic Centre to be found.

Berjaya Air's plane landing at the Bejayaa private airstrip at Pulau Redang

HOW TO GET THERE
By Air :
Malaysia Airline System (MAS) & AirAsia operates services direct from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to Kuala Terengganu. "however, Air Asia is cheaper, but with limited flights and seats. A MAS round-trip ticket costs RM388.00 [adult] while Air Asia offers as low as RM19.90 for single trip" (that's if you book really early or fly on off-peak hours)
The flight takes about 45 minutes.

or if u in the "rat race" then by Berjaya Air,From KLIA Airport straight to Pulau Redang.

By Road :
Express buses/Coaches and outstation taxis offer regular services from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu.Coaches go to Kuala Terengganu. It costs approximately RM23.80 one way for Coaches.If you are not rushing for time Takes the coaches where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and experience the local village culture along the east coast. The coach stops a few times along the journey at town and villages for tea break, you might get a chance to drop by and experience some Malaysian local culture is like in the "Kampung Life" as we call it.

Overall The trip takes about 7 hours.

There are many buses, coaches and taxis commuting between Kuala Terengganu town and Merang Jetty.

Destination Day ETD / ETA/ Fare
Kuala Lumpur / Kuala Terengganu, Daily, 2245 / 0645* next day ,RM26
Kuala Terengganu / Kuala Lumpur,Daily. RM28

From Penang
Depart daily at night from KOMTAR or Butterworth stations to Kuala Terengganu. Journey: 8 Hours from Johor Bahru Depart daily (10:00am, 9:00pm, 9:30pm, 10:00pm) Larkin Station / Hentian Kompleks Pengangkutan Awam to Kuala Terengganu Journey: 10 Hours Tel: +607-2245182, +607-2220045 Fare: RM28.60 (adult) / RM14.30 (child) from Singapore Depart daily (9:00am, 8:00pm, 9:00pm) Singapore (Lavender Street/ Kallang Bahru Junction) to Kuala TerengganuJourney: 11 Hours Tel: +65-62947035 Fare: RM51.90 (adult) / RM25.90 (child)

By Rail
There is no train or railway network to Terengganu at the moment.

By Ferry
The main jetty is at Merang, some 30 km north from Kuala Terengganu. From Merang, the trip to Pulau redang takes about 40 minutes on comfortable, large speedboats. There is no boat ticketing counter at Merang Jetty.

Accommodation and boating are all pre-arranged and on package deal only so Its best to book from Resort of Tour agency as all resort provide they own package deal from which may include diving surfing ,snorkeling ,kayaking and etc for the best package..

Advice its better to book early as some resort are to famous that they scenic room are book 5 or 8 month earliar. and sometime are booked till the next 2 or 3 year by some Rich Loyal customer.

As Terengganu also don’t Have enough hotel to accommodated the large influx of tourist each year. Ps:Beside that,we dont want the island to be over crowed do we?

Pulau Bidong

2006-05-06T06:39:00.006+08:00

Pulau Bidong or Palau Bidong

Pulau Bidong or Palau Bidong by the American War Veteran. This little island was also know as little Saigon and is an historical island, which lay many memories to a lot of the of the older generation and the former the Boat People I had went in search for article about the Boat people.
.. ......after reading those article I was lost with words that I had decided to post the Story of the island from journey Malaysia and other that I put up together here as I don’t think I have the right to write about things that I don’t know.

..........................................................................................

Warning!!
Never go to Pulau Bidong Alone even though it is not restricted to the public any more, as There are many traps in form of abandoned wells dug which was dug by the refugees for fresh water a decade ago

.........................................................................

Pulau Bidong- The Story

In “Deer Hunter”, a movie starring Robert de Niro and Christopher Walken exploded into the theatres in 1978, and became one of the movie industry's historical turning points. This film dealt with lives of U.S. war veterans and their failure to assimilate into society back home after the Vietnam War.Many moviegoers in the U.S. knew someone or of someone who had gone off to fight and lost a part of them there. The impact of atrocities of war had never been more realised nor had it ever been so close to heart.

On the other side of the fence, whilst the Americans were picking pieces of their lives, the Vietnamese people had still to live through the terror, long after the U.S. veterans had left their land. As the last of the U.S. administrators and officers left Saigon on 29th and 30th April 1975, things began to change for the Vietnamese people. Millions of people were displaced, orphaned and millions suffered all through the next 2 decades.

Little did we realise at the time, Malaysia was already feeling the ripples caused by that war . There were many displaced victims of war, who were desperate to leave the country. They sold whatever they could and bribed anyone that was willing to ‘help' them gain a passage out of Vietnam. Those lucky enough, bought themselves space on cramped wooden boats heading for a new life in neighbouring countries. Others tried to trek across to the Thai borders where they hoped to secure asylum there.

Their journey was a perilous one. No one knew what to expect upon arrival in the new land. The boats were usually so cramped, most passengers had little more than crouching spaces. Storms came and went; illnesses and malnutrition took away a few elders, children and the weak; and pirates pillaged boats. Stories were told of pirates ruthlessly raping, killing, and throwing victims overboard. Occasionally, bodies were washed up ashore.
To others, the greatest fear was that if marine patrol boats were to catch up with them before arriving at their specified destination, their sentence would be an immediate return to Vietnam and.... a death sentence.

---------------------------------

The Boat People in Pulau Bidong

Still even with the many danger that they face ,yet more and more of the ‘Boat People', made their parelial journeys despite the slim chances of them making the entire journey unscathed. Many arrived on Malaysian soil - praying that the Malaysian authorities would not send them back. They soon learnt that if they ‘broke' their boats by crashing them onto rocks in shallow waters, they could buy more time with the immigration officials. The officials had no choice but to house them in camps until proper documentation etc were issued.

The refugees landed wherever they could and realising that there may be more to come, the authorities agreed to allow camps to be set up for them. One chosen camp location was Pulau Bidong. The Pulau Bidong refugee camp started in 1975 and was sponsored by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNCHR). The Malaysian Red Crescent Society, on the other hand, was responsible for the daily operations at the camp.

Some 250,000 refugees filtered through this camp between 1975 and 1991. When the camp closed , all remaining refugees were relocated or were returned to Vietnam.
Although the almost circular island has land space of about 2km in diameter, the camp occupied only a small area. Real estate was the career to choose at the camp. After all, like anywhere - it's location, location, location! Refugees leaving the camp would sell their shacks to new arrivals or brokers from as little as US$20 to as high as US$400.

Black market also thrived in the community. Local fishermen traded with several Vietnamese who were brave enough to swim out to the fishing boats, anchored some distance from the island. With black market came gangsters, vendors, suppliers and the rest. If there was a market, there was supply. Even prostitution was not uncommon. But not everyone worked for a ‘Big Brother'….not full time, that is. There were those who were employed as labourers and administrators in the offices and were paid in food parcels - the common denomination of the island's economy.

The Malaysian Red Crescent Society had an administration office at the camp. A temple was built with the help of the Malaysian government, UNCHR and the red crescent society. A school, a church, a clinic, shops and a cemetery was also set up at camp. All left abandoned now. The wooden structures are disintegrating with the years of neglect but the stories of their lives are etched, carved and preserved on slabs and in memorials left behind by the boat people….those that lived through the ordeals and unjust punishment of a war

.........................................................

Pulau Bidong a tourist spot?

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. (there were many death)

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 snorkelling 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 Tourist attraction 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 Helper who had serve there. And, although Bidong Island is not familiar to the younger generation today, it will always has its place in the Malaysia’s modern history.