Terengganu is located at the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. To the north there lies the Kelantan state, then neigbouring with Pahang at the south.
History
History of Terengganu began long before the establishment of Melaka sultanate. The archaeological evidences found in Bewah Cave in Kenyir Lake proven that this state has already been resided since 4,000 B.C. However, the Sultanate of Terengganu began only in 1724 with Sultan Zainal Abidin as the first sultan for this state.
During the early sultanate period, although Siam claimed that Terengganu was part of its dominion resulted from the Bunga Emas and Bunga Perak sent by the latter in every 3 years, it was said that the gift was actually a present of courtesy and token of friendship but not tributes as to prevent the interference of British in the state’s administration. Siam handed over Terengganu to British in 1909 after signing the Bangkok Agreement but this was rejected by Terengganu.
British in 1909 after signing the Bangkok Agreement but this was rejected by Terengganu.
Another agreement was then signed between Terengganu and British in 1910 and thereafter Terengganu officially recognized the appointment of a British Representative with the condition the British agent was not empowered to interfere in the administration of the state. The British who was not satisfy with their status continued to look for ways to get involve in the internal affairs of the state.
In 1919, their attempt finally succeeded. Another agreement was signed between British and Sultan Muhammad. Terengganu officially accepted a British advisor, seek and follow his counsels in all administrative matters except religion issues.
Nevertheless, the involvement of British had brought to resistance from the people. The patriotic awareness had spread among the state and led to the establishment of Association of Young Malays (Kesatuan Melayu Muda, KMM) in 1937. A series of campaigns was held by KMM during 1940-1941. In 1942 when the Japanese took the control of Peninsular Malaysia, KMM was dissolved and Terengganu was under the administration of Japanese Army until 1943 when the governance authority was transferred to the Thai Army.
Thai administration remained in Terengganu until Japan conceded defeat to the alliance in August 1945, then it was again back to the hand of British until the Federation of Malaya achieved her independence on 31 August 1957.
Today
Terengganu today covers 12,995 square kilometers and comprises of seven districts: Setiu, Kemaman, Dungun, Marang, Hulu Terengganu and Kuala Terengganu. There is approximately 1 million of population in this state which 90% are Malays and the reminder share among the Chinese and Indians and a very small percentage goes to aborigines.
Economy
The discovery of offshore oil in gas in 1974 has granted Terengganu a significant change to its economic, technology and social structure. At current production, the oil and gas reserves are estimated to last for another 13 years and 41 years respectively.
Terengganu has enjoyed considerable development over the past 30 years with its rapid industrialization and growing economic activity after the discovery of these reserves. Before this, farming and fishing were the main economic activities for the state. Even so, 45% of its land is still covered by lush pristine forests and rivers also home for some very old Malaysia traditional culture whose practices and customs have been handed down the generations. The 225 km of coastline is not only making Terengganu the state with the longest coastline in Peninsular Malaysia but also contributing to the state GNP.
As a holiday destination, Terengganu is a neverending journey of discovery with its rich and exotic culture, breathtaking wonders of nature and endless potential for adventure
Culture and Religion
Due to its history background and geographical location, Terengganu receives cultural influences from the neighbour in the north: Kelantan and Thailand. Though it is conservative Muslim state, the general public is still enjoying the freedom of worship. However, beer or alcohol is not widely available in certain places especially Malay own shops. Always remember that while n Rome, do as Acclaimed the largest museum in Malaysia, the Terengganu State Museum houses century old artifacts and artworks of rich and colourful heritage. Located on 27 hectares on land in Bukit Losong, Kuala Terengganu, the complexes itself are an impressive architectural feat, based on the designs of Terengganu’s old palace. The complex showcases many galleries such as textiles, historical artifacts, crafts, royal regalia, Islamic arts, contemporary arts, weapons and petroleum development. At the main entrance, the original ‘Batu Bersurat’ of Terengganu is located which proved the acceptance of Islamic teachings much earlier than other states in the peninsula. The original old palaces and traditional boats are also displayed in the compound. the Romans do.
12 Wonders of Terengganu
The Largest Museum In Malaysia.
Acclaimed the largest museum in Malaysia, the Terengganu State Museum houses century old artifacts and artworks of rich and colourful heritage. Located on 27 hectares on land in Bukit Losong, Kuala Terengganu, the complexes itself are an impressive architectural feat, based on the designs of Terengganu’s old palace. The complex showcases many galleries such as textiles, historical artifacts, crafts, royal regalia, Islamic arts, contemporary arts, weapons and petroleum development. At the main entrance, the original ‘Batu Bersurat’ of Terengganu is located which proved the acceptance of Islamic teachings much earlier than other states in the peninsula. The original old palaces and traditional boats are also displayed in the compound.
The World’s Oldest and Largest Chengal Tree
In the vast Pasir Raja Forest Reserve bordering the National Park, stands the world’s oldest and largest Chengal tree. Known for its remarkable quality and durability, The Malaysian Book of Records estimated it to be 1,300 years old with a diameter of 16.75 meters at the base and grows to a staggering height of 65 meters.
The Largest Pheasant Collection In Malaysia
The privately owned farm is in Ajil, a quaint small town about 35 minutes drive from Kuala Terengganu towards Kuala Berang. Here on 1.7 acres of land, more than 30 rare and protected pheasant species are reared and breed. Among them is the extremely rare Malaysian Green Peafowls. The farm has been certified by Malaysian Book Of Record, as the largest pheasant collection in Malaysia. A visit here will be an educational and enjoyable experience.
The Largest Exotic Beach In Malaysia
The state of Terengganu, on the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, is famous for its long stretch of white, sandy and unpolluted beaches that northern district of Besut to the southern district of Kemaman. Facing the South China Sea, the beaches are breathtaking and its offshore islands enchanting. A haven for those seeking a good time in the sun, sand and sea.
The Largest Man-Made Lake In South East Asia
Located in the interior of Terengganu and spanning over 260,000 hectares, Tasik Kenyir borders Kelantan in the West and Pahang in the South. This immense lake also serves as an alternative gateway to National Park. What were once rivers, hilltop and highlands, the construction of Sultan Mahmud Hydroelectric Power Plant has filled up the dam, creating about 340 islands, 14 waterfalls, and numerous rapids. It is home to many varieties of fauna and flora, abundant species of freshwater fish and exotic wildlife. Jungle trekking, kayaking, obstacle courses, wildlife observation and angling are robust outdoor activities recommended.
The Finest Songket and Batik In Malaysia
Songket and batik of Terengganu remain a distinctive beauty for generations as the craftsmen stress more on originality and quality. The styles are particularly unique. The intricate designs and motifs reveal the ingenuity and creativity of the legacy of Terengganu, the unmatched arts that retain its originality over the years. Songket, which was once worn only by royalties and dignitaries, is work of art where traditional weaving technology is still being used to create designs of exquisite elegance, while batik is now recognised as a designer label and is either hand drown or block imprints. Both motifs use the local floras with a touch of artistic ingenuity, creating designs of elegance suitable for special or casual occasions. Today songket and batik grace many traditional clothes and designer’s labels as well as on crafts like handbags, cushions and home decorations.
The Finest Wood Carving In Malaysia
Terengganu craftsmen are proud of their woodcarving skills. They work hard at their vocation and produced beautiful works of art that are often praised and admired for their exquisite beauty. The rich flora as well as the intricate Islamic arts inspires most of the carvings. The demands of these quality woodcarvings from Terengganu have been constant with orders from government, corporation and individuals
The Highest Waterfall In Malaysia
Terengganu has been famous for its numerous rapids and waterfalls. However, a recently discovered Chemerong Waterfalls is the highest in Malaysia. It thunders magnificently down a 305 metres slope. Situated 30 kilometers away from Bandar Al Muktafi Billah Shah, it is surrounded by untouched, diversed riches of nature and wildlife. Getting to the waterfalls, the adventurous need to jungle-trek through nature at its best. Upon reaching the site, the coolness and the thundering sound of the waterfalls soothe the weariest travelers.
One Of The Spectacular Fireflies Sanctuary In Malaysia Arecently discovered fireflies sanctuary in Sg. Yak Yah, Kg. Ibok, provides another alternative attraction in Kemaman. Only a few places provide ideal breeding grounds for these bio-luminescent insects, especially around watery areas such as streams, marshes and river that retain moistures. Fireflies produces light via a chemical reaction of combined enzyme and oxygen. It is unique as fireflies are able to turn the lights on and off by controlling the oxygen supplies. When thousands of fireflies blink simultaneously,
