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Terengganu : Eastern Traditional Charm

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As you travel along the Terengganu coast drink in the sights of long stretches of sandy coastline, traditional coastal villages, cows wandering in the fields and picture postcard sunsets with swaying coconut trees and the setting sun dipping below the horizon. It is but the beginning of your adventure. Inland lush tropical rainforests, dazzling waterfalls and other natural wonders greet you while beyond the impressive coastline some of the most popular island destinations in Malaysia await you. With so much to see, so many traditional experiences to enjoy combined with magical sensations everywhere, you cannot help being tempted to prolong your stay. 2008 being is the ‘Visit Terengganu Year’ and spectacular events and activities planned will ensure that you have the time of your lives.





Geography

Terengganu is located along the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. To the north lies the Kelantan state, and to the south, Pahang. Terengganu covers around 12,995 square kilometers and comprises seven districts: Setiu, Kemaman, Dungun, Marang, Hulu Terengganu and Kuala Terengganu.

Kuala Terengganu, the state capital, is located on the banks of the Terengganu River which flows down to the South China Sea. It features a blend of old and new buildings and appears to have stood still in time, moving at a slow and relaxed pace. Good accommodation can be found to suit all tastes is this quiet town.

History & Culture
With Terengganu's strategic location in the South China Sea it was an important trade center in ancient times. It had trading relations with China and has also long been an important area of Malay settlement. Recent archaeological finds found in Bewah Cave in Kenyir Lake indicate the existence of earlier settlements as far back as 4,000BC.

The Terengganu Sultanate originated almost 300 years ago when Tun Zainal Abidin became the first Sultan (Sultan Zainal Abidin I) in 1708. The current ruler is Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, the 16th Sultan, who was proclaimed ruler of the state on May 15, 1998, becoming the youngest ruler in Malaysia. Terengganu became a member of the Federation of Malaya in 1948, and a state of independent Malaya in 1957.

The state has a population of approximately 1 million of which 90% are Malays, followed by the Chinese and Indians and a very small percentage of aborigines.