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Museums
For some insight into the origins of Kelantan’s unique cultural heritage, your best points of reference would be the various Museums located near Padang Merdeka (Independence Square) many of which are within walking distance of each other. The Museums are open daily except on Fridays.
Bank Kerapu (War Memorial Museum)
Originally constructed in 1911 by the Mercantile Bank, the Bank Kerapu building was taken over by the Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank after World War II. During World War II the Japanese Secret Police, Kempetai, used it as headquarters. Today the Museum holds a collection of documents, photographs and other military memorabilia from the Japanese Occupation.
Syura Hall (Islamic Museum)
This Islamic Museum traces the history of Islam in the State. This mosque-like building, which was once known as Serambi Mekah or the ‘Annex of Mecca’, is where the documented history of Islam in Kelantan can be found. On display here are artefacts and inscriptions relating to the involvement of Kelantan Rulers in spreading Islam. Islamic art, handicrafts as well as rare photographs of personal belongings of the Prophet Muhammed.
Museum Negeri (The State Museum)
The State Museum located along Jalan Hospital also houses the State Art Gallery. Once used as the Land Office from colonial times till the turn of the 20th Century, renovations were carried out to convert it into a Museum. Today the Museum documents the arts, crafts and musical traditions of Kelantan. There are interesting displays of early ceramics from trade between Kelantan and China more than 200 years ago. Artefacts from local geological sites also provide evidence of a pre-historic civilisation that may have existed in the Kelantan region.
Istana Jahar (Museum of Royal Traditions and Custums)
This palace was built in 1887 during Sultan Ahmad’s reign from 1886-1889 for one of his descendants, Long Kundur, who eventually succeeded him to the throne. The palace is a work of art that highlights carved and intricate wooden panels and frameworks alongside iron staircases — the craft of gifted Kelantanese craftsmen.
Istana Batu (The Royal Museum)
Currently a repository of Kelantan royal family regalia, Istana Batu was built in 1939 as a wedding gift for HRH Sultan Yahya Petra. It was the royal residence until 1961, and subsequently turned into a museum in 1991. Replicas of crown jewels, costumes worn by royalty and other paraphernalia, and rare, precious photographs give you an insight into the social activities and personal lives of Kelantan royalty.
