Exploring Malaysia 
| Next > |
|---|
A kaleidoscope of colourful traditions and the warmth, hospitality and old world charm of the Kelantanese people will envelop you in this northern state. With a population which continues to take pleasure in enjoying the simple things in life, age-old customs of their forefathers are held dear and still feature strongly in their daily lives. Kelantan’s rich heritage and traditions complemented by beautiful beaches and idyllic rural villages will be among the highlights of your visit to this state.
Geography
Kelantan, which translates as the "Land of Lightning," is located in the north-east of Peninsular Malaysia. Bordered by Thailand to the north, Terengganu to the south-east, Perak to the west, and Pahang to the south, much of its east coast faces the South China Sea.
Mostly a rural state in Kelantan you will be surrounded by an abundance of paddy fields, quaint fishing villages and beaches lined with gently swaying casuarinas trees. You will find that even its capital, Kota Bharu. by far the most developed location in the state, exudes an old-world charm with a mixture of old and new architecture throughout the town. Kota Bharu has the charms of an old-fashioned city with modern infrastructure conveniences. An interesting way of exploring the town would be to use its famous ornate and colourful trishaws.
History & Culture
Kelantan boasts of a historical past going as far back as 8000 B.C which includes links with the ancient Imperial Court of China and as a regional centre of Islamic learning.
In the 18th century, the provinces that now form the state of Kelantan came under the powerful warrior, Long Yunus, whose descendents presently make-up the royal house of Kelantan. The state came under Thai and British influence before becoming part of the Federation of Malaya in 1957.
The current population of Kelantan is approximately 1.5 million. The vast majority of the people in Kota Bharu are Kelantanese Malay Muslims, and the balance other races such as Chinese, Indian and Thai. Being near the Thai border Thai influence is strong in many areas of the state, including the local cuisine. The Kelantanese dialect is also a unique mix of Bahasa Malaysia and Thai.
