The East Coast

Laid-back towns, fishing villages and resort islands are characteristics of the east coast states of Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang. Here, life stands still and many observe traditional customs.

o     Kelantan
Being relatively isolated, Kelantan hasn’t experienced rapid industrialisation like the west coast. Attractions in Kota Bharu, its capital, include the bustling wet market- Pasar Besar Siti Khatijah, Cultural Centre, Royal Museum, State Museum, State Mosque and Istana Jahar, featuring Kelantan’s rich cultural legacy. Kelantanese are gifted craftsmen with many cottage industries around the state producing silverware, textiles, kites and brass work.

o     Kuala Terengganu – Old World Ambience
Fishing villages make driving along the east coast a pleasant experience. When you are here, explore the town in a trishaw or see traditional fishing boats being built on Duyung Island at the river mouth. An hour’s drive inland is the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia, Tasik Kenyir. Kite-flying, bird-singing and top-spinning are adult pastimes in the east coast states and competitions are held during festivals or after the rice harvest. Terengganu boasts several idyllic islands in the South China Sea. They include islands of Perhentian Besar, Perhentian Kedil, Redang Marine Park, Merang & Tenggol. However, the islands on the east coast experience occasional torrential showers between November to February though selected established resorts continue to operate during this season.

Ø  Visit our Terengganu Travel Guide for a more comprehensive guide on Terengganu.

o     Pahang – Largest Malaysia State
Being the largest, naturally this state is endowed with a variety of attractions from beautiful beaches, cool highlands retreats to lakes and caves.
Tioman Island achieved fame as Bali Hai in the 1950’s movie, South Pacific. The Berjaya Tioman Beach, Golf & Spa Resort offers the only international-standard accommodation with others being owner-operated chalets. Cherating is a seaside destination long popular with budget travellers. It is the site of Asia’s first Club Med and the charming Cherating Village. Other attractions in Pahang include Malaysia’s premier national park, Taman Negara, the highland resorts of Genting Highlands, Cameron Highlands, Bukit Tinggi and Fraser’s Hill, as well as the natural lakes of Bera and Chini.