Batu Bersurat Terengganu

Batu Bersurat Terengganu or the Inscribed Stone of Terengganu is an important historical artifact of Terengganu that proves Islam has reached Terengganu earlier than 1326 or 1386. Wrtitten in Jawi, Batu Bersurat Terengganu was found by an arab trader by the name of  Sayid Husin bin Ghulam al Bukhari in 1899 by the banks of the Tersat river after a flash flood hit Kuala Berang.

It was then transported back to Kuala Terengaanu on a raft where it was presented to the Sultan Zainal Abidin 111, the ruler of Terengganu at that time. As nobody at that time knew how to read Jawi, Mr. H.S. Peterson, an englishman who was working in Terengganu took photographs of it and sent them for transcription.

The message on the Batu bersurat mentioned how islam was the religion of the country at that time. It also spoke of the various  commandments and  punishments of the country at that particular time. The inscriptions was believed to be written on friday in the month of rejab, 702 hijrah or 22 February 1303. This therefore proves that Islam has reached Terengganu before the 14th century long before Melaka was founded.

Replica of the Batu bersurat at the roundabout in Kuala Terengganu

Today the Batu bersurat is one of the important historical artifact displayed at  the Terengganu State Museum. A replica of the Batu Bersurat can also be seen near the roundabout in Kuala Terengganu.

Kuala Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu - the capital of Terengganu

If you are short of time, but still wish to feel the essence of Terengganu, then a visit to Kuala Terengganu, the capital and the royal state of Terengganu is what you need. In Kuala Terengganu and the sorrounding  areas, there are many places of interest which you can visit such as the Pasar Payang, Bukit Puteri, China Town, Istana Maziah, Seberang Takir, The Floating Mosque, Muzium Losong, Pulau Duyong and Pantai Batu Burok.

Learn the process  of  making of beautiful batik and Songket that Terengganu is famous for at the many Batik and Songket shops here or pay a visit to Desa Craft. Discover the interesting  history and rich culture and heritage from the Terengganu State Musuem.

Climb the Bukit Puteri and get a birds eye view of the city. Try out the delicious local delicacies of Terengganu such as Nasi Dagang, keropok lekor, satar and otak-otak. Shop and bargain for beautiful works of art, food and souvenirs at the Pasar Payang .

Places of Interest in Terengganu :

Terengganu State Museum Complex : Consists of a Main Museum, a Maritime Museum, a Fisheries Museum, 4 traditional houses and botanic and herbs gardens. The Main Museum is built on 16 stilts, in accordance with the traditional architecture of Terengganu. Its 4 blocks are adjoined, to represent a big family. There are ten galleries showcasing textiles, crafts, historical, royal, nature, art, petroleum, Islamic, new generation and contemporary arts.

Bukit Puteri, is a 200 m high historical hill, situated next to Istana Maziah. It was used as a fortress between the years of 1831 to 1876 to defend the state from enemy attacks. Some of the historical remains which can be seen on Bukit Puteri are cannons, a flagpole, a large bell and a fort. Today, as it is the highest point in Kuala Terengganu, visitors standing on top of Bukit Puteri can witness the magnificent view of the areas sur-rounding it.

Istana Maziah  is believed to have been constructed during the reign of Sultan Zainal Abidin III. It was built in 1897 and it is the venue for royal birthdays, weddings, conferment of titles and receptions for local and foreign dignitaries. A product of the blend between splendid modern and traditional architecture, it is also well-known as one of Malaysia's cultural attractions.

Masjid Tengku Tengah Zaharah (The Floating Mosque), located outside Kuala Terengganu is just 4.5km away. This is not an ordinary mosque but said to be the only one of its kind in Malaysia. Combining modern and traditional architectural designs, the mosque creates an illusion of itself as floating on water

Pasar Payang (Central market)  is located by the Terengganu River is one of the most popular tourist spots in Kuala Terengganu. Housed in a modern building complete with a shopping arcade and a car park, it offers visitors a variety of traditional handicrafts such as batik, silk, songket, brocade and brassware, other fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables and 'Keropok Lekor', which is a special local delicacy made from a mixture of fish and sago. Visitors to this market will have a delightful experi-ence shopping in local fares at reasonable prices.

Desa Craft  formerly known as Usaha Desa, is an interesting handicraft centre which showcases songket, brassware, batik, souvenir items and also fashion wear of current batik designs.

Pulau Duyung is the most well-known boat building ground in Terengganu. There, you can see boats being made by skilled boat builders who implement skills which have been passed down from generation to generation. Boat building is an art form therefore the boat builders take pride in their skill. The boat builders are unique, for they work entirely from their memory and experience, and without any set plans. Pulau Duyung is also renowned for its dried and salted fish, and fish crackers industries. It is easily accessible by the Sultan Mahmud Bridge, or for those who enjoy using sea transportation, take a boat from the Kuala Terengganu waterfront.

 You can even  take the  boat to travel between Kuala Terengganu and Seberang Takir for a small fee. If you're in Seberang Takir then try out the delightful Terengganu specialties like the keropok lekor, laksam, nasi dagang  and the big glass fruit juice while you relax and enjoy the view of  the serene fishing village scene here.

Ride the boat to explore the city

Spectacular view of the bridge

And if you are tired after travelling , stop over and have a big glass of fruit juice drink to quech your thrist and refresh.

Terengganu Turtle Sanctuary

The fascinating turtles

Turtles laying eggs on the beach

Baby turtles on the beach

Baby turtles are released to the sea

Terengganu is famous for its giant leatherback turtles. In Rantau Abang, these wonderful creatures  come to the shores of Rantau Abang Beach to lay their eggs every year.

Unfortunately the turtles are under threat of extinction due to :

• Exploitation and the sale of turtles and their eggs by local traders
• Turtles dying when they're trapped in fishermans nets
• Decline in places where turtles come to lay their eggs due to construction of resorts, hotels, houses  and industrial areas.
• Pollution from oil spillage, industrial waste and garbage  which pose a threat to the turtles.

In an effort to preserve these creatures from the threat of extinction, turtle sanctuaries have been set up in Rantau Abang, Kemaman, Setiu, Pulau Redang and Kerteh.

These Turtle Sactuaries are set up to provide a safe place for turtles to hatch and  to grow before they are released to the sea. Research are also carried out to ensure the best conditions are provided for the conservation of the turtles.

Don't forget to catch the next issue of  Terengganu travels for more interesting and fascinating facts  about Terengganu the land where nature embraces heritage.

Kemaman Recreational Park & Mini Zoo (Taman Rekreasi & Mini Zoo Kemaman)

The Kemaman Recreational  Park & Mini Zoo was first officiated on 11 April 2009. Located in Kg. Ibok about 14km from Chukai town, it offers local and foreign tourist an interesting destination to visit. It houses more than 74 species of animals here including the tiger, bears, crocodiles, birds, orang utan and elephants.

There is even a water theme park for children to play. The hanging bridge offers visitors an exciting experience crossing it. There is even an orchid park, an observatory tower, waterfall, bird park housing many different types of birds. The aquarium offers a wonderful collection of colorful and fascinating species of fishes like the Arapaima. There is even a Herb Garden as well as a fruit orchard for nature lovers.

Majestic tiger - the star attraction

The Colorful and beautiful Peacock

Bears

Those who are tired of walking need not worry as there are plenty of buggies providing rides. There is even elephant rides offered here if you wish to try.

The opening hours are from 10 a.m to 5 p.m daily while the entrance tickets prices are as follows :

RM 5	Adults
RM 3	Children  age 5-13 yea
RM 2	Students
Free	Children below 5 years

  Ticket prices - Elephants :

HARGA	GOLONGAN
RM 20	Adults
RM 10	Children

  Ticket prices - Water theme park:

HARGA	GOLONGAN
RM 5	Children above 6 years
RM 3	Children below 6 yeras

Chinatown

Chinatown form part of Terengganu's rich heritage with its Pre World War 11  buildings, some aging more than 100 years old. These buildings are believed to be residential houses of  mainland chinese from China who migrated to Malaysia in the 19th century.

These century old buildings have now been turned in to sundry shops, coffeeshops, offices, restaurants, batik and giftshops aswell as tour agents aswell. Beautiful and colorful buildings with distinct chinese architecture makes it a heritage attraction for both local and foreign visitors.

There are 2 very old chinese temples here known as Ho Ann Kiong (1801) and Tien Hok Kong (1896) that has been recognised by the UNICEF as Heritage Attractions.

Chinatown is close to Pasar Payang, it can be acessed through Jalan Hiliran or Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin

Kuang Ajil Park

The Kuang Ajil Park is located in 1.7 acres along the way to Kuala Berang and Kenyir lake is certified by the Malaysia Book of  Records as the largest pheasant breeding farm in Malaysia. It has over 30 over species of protected pheasants and peafowls including the extinct species of green peacock last spotted on the Besut beach in 1958.

It has over 38 from 49 species of pheasant from all over the world. The pheasants are kept and bred in their natural habitat and sorroundings in a joint effort with  the State Development Corporation .  Pheasants are one of the most beautiful birds in the world attracting many local and foreign tourists.

So if you love looking at birds and pheasants, come on over to the Kuang Ajil Park for some fun time with the birds.

Pura Tanjung Sabtu

Pura Tanjung Sabtu is a residential complex of  Terengganu houses and palaces located in the charming and  tranquil countryside of the Nerus river. The complex comprises of 11 antique 200 year old Malay timber houses reassembled and restored to resemble the royal Terengganu palaces and  houses of olden days.

Located on 14 acres of land including garden and fruit orchard, Pura Tanjung Sabtu is beautifully lanscaped with natural vegetation of bamboo, Rengas trees and Nibong palm. The name Pura Tanjung Sabtu is a combination of  the sanskrit word "Pura" which means palace, temple or city, while Tanjung Sabtu is the name of the village is located.

The Pura Tanjung Sabtu offers homestay for those who wish to experiance living in old Terengganu traditional houses. Step back in to time in Pura Tanjung Sabtu. But don't worry,  as the guesthouses are equipped with modern facilities such as electricity, air-con, wireless internet and private bathroom with hot water for your convenience. One can also go fishing  or catch fresh water prawns along the Nerus river. Or enjoy the boat ride or try rafting along the river.

How to Get there :

By car :  from Kuala Terengganu : take the Sultan Mahmud bridge across Pulau Duyong to the Batu Enam roundabout. Turn left and drive for about 1.2 km until the traffic light. At the second traffic light turn right into Jeram. After about 3 km you will see the Tanjung Sabtu mosque. Turn right there through the village, and after 1 km you will see the gateway leading to Pura Tanjung Sabtu.


By boat : from Kuala Terengganu : you can take a boat (Bot Penambang) at the jetty near the market (in Chinatown Pasar Kedai Payang). There should be a boat that sets off at 11am. Ask the boatman for Pura Tanjung Sabtu. It is roughly a 1 hour trip up-river until the Pura TS jetty. Check at the tourism information center for updated and more detailed information.


Don't forget to check out the next issue of Terengganu travels for more interesting facts about Terengganu.

Crystal Mosque (Masjid Kristal)

The Crystal Mosque is the icon of the Islamic Civilization Park and a popular landmark of the Kuala Terengganu City. Built using steel and glass, it was first open  on the 8th February 2008.

The Crystal Mosque  which can fit up to 700 visitors at any one time, is equipped with state of the art technology and WIFI coverage that allows visitors to access the internet for Quranic recitations.



A trip to the crystal mosque at night is a breathtaking sight as the colorful display of lights reflects a beautiful background of the crystal mosque.

Tune into more interesting travel information on Terengganu in the next issue of Terengganu Travel Guide, until then have a great weekend.

Islamic Civilization Park (Taman Tamadun Islam)

Islamic Civilization Park  or Taman Tamadun Islam in Terengganu is the first edutainment park in the world. Built on the uninhabited Pulau Wan Man covering an area of 22.3 hectares, among the popular attraction here is its 21 replicas of mosques and Islamic monuments. 

There is the replica of Masjidul Haram of Mecca, the Tajmahal of India, Dome of Rock in Juruselam, the AlHambra of Spain, the Samarra Grand Mosque of Iraq and the Citadel of Aleppo in Syria.

The Islamic Civilization Park also offers guided tour around the island and river cruise along the Terengganu river. Tickets are priced at RM39 for Adults and RM35 for children for the family trip. Visitors will be taken to the Monument Park, Convention centre, Crystal Mosque, Guest House and B'Beteng. The river cruise will take approximately 3 hours.

Learn more about the Islamic Civilization in fields of science, technology, arts, architecture, engineering and heritage by visiting the Islamic Civilization Park. To learn more about it, you can go the site below :-

Islamic Civilization Park (Taman Tamadun Islam)

Pasar Payang

Located by the Terengganu river, the Central market in Kuala Terengganu also known as Pasar Payang is favorite place to shop among tourists. Here you can get almost anything under one roof. Pasar Payang is a combination of a wet market aswell as a shopping bazaar.

Beautiful batik cloth sold at Pasar Payang

Traditional snacks and delicacies sold here

Fresh produce sold at Pasar Payang

You can get fresh produce  such as fish, vegetables, fruits and local snack and delicacies such as keropok, keropok lekor, bepang, dodol, sagu and even telur penyu (turtles eggs). There are also many stalls selling handicrafts  such as brassware and textile dealers selling batik and songket aswell.

The new Pasar Payang under construction

So if you're looking for a place to get local delicacies and souvenirs from Terengganu, then Pasar Payang is the place to go. Pasar Payang can be acessed through Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin or Jalan Hiliran. The moment, construction is undertaken to modernise Pasar Payang to provide a more convenient shopping atmosphere for its visitors.

Istana Maziah

Located near Bukit Puteri, Kuala Terengganu, Istana Maziah is the official residence of the state ruler in the olden days.Now, it is only used for royal official functions and  the state official events such as the coronation of Sultan Terengganu, royal weddings and birthdays, conferment of titles and reception for local and foreign dignitaries.

Constructed during the reign of Sultan Zainal Abidin III in  1897, it was built to replace Istana Hijau which was burned down during World War II. The palace is build using a mixture of building materials including limestone, clay, egg white , sugar, coarse salt and timber. 20 craftsmen were given the task to construct it. If you look closely, you'll notice that the shuttered windows resembles the French chateau.

In order to get to Istana Maziah, you can take a car, taxi or the bus to Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin or Jalan Hiliran.

Terengganu State Museum

Situated in Losong about 6km away from Kuala Terengganu , the Terengganu State Musuem covering an area of  27 hectares is acclaimed to be the largest museum in the South East Asia. The design and architecture of the museum itself  is a representation of the ancient palaces of  Terengganu.

There are many galleries in it such as the textile, royal, natural history, craft, petroleum, historical and Islamic galleries showcasing the state's historical artifacts, historal facts and developments. There is even a maritime museum displaying traditional fishing boats and travelling vessels as well as tools and equipments used in the construction of  boats.

Step back in time and experience the life of yesteryears when you visit the Traditional house located behind the Terengganu State Museum. Watch this short video clip of  Terengganu State Museum below.

So don't forget to visit the Terengganu State Museum in your trip to Terengganu. Opening hours are as follows :
Saturday to Thursday

9:00am - 5:00pm

Friday

9am - 12pm
3pm - 5pm

The museum is closed during Hari Raya Puasa and Hari Raya Haji Holidays.

Admission Fee for Malaysian Citizen

Adult: RM5 Children: RM2  Students : RM1

Admission Fee for non Malaysian

Adult: RM15 Children: RM10

Any inquiries can be made at Muzium Terengganu Malaysia,Bukit Losong,20566 Kuala Terengganu

Terengganu, Malaysia. 

Tel: +6 09 622 1444

Masjid Terapung - Floating Mosque of Kuala Terengganu

On every single trips to Terengganu, I've have always been mesmerized and fascinated by the  beauty of its unspoilt natural   sorrounding. The rustic kampung village, the picturesque coastline of swaying cocunut trees, white sandy beaches and blue sea.

If  you happen to be in Kuala Terengganu, then be prepared to be amazed aswell, especially if you're passing by it in the evening. Catch the sunset setting overlooking the floating mosque of Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque or better known as Masjid Terapung and you'll see what I mean.

This beautiful mosque is built on the estuary of Terengganu river is a sight to behold not only because of its beautiful architecture but also because it is floating on water. When the sunsets and the golden hues of the sun paints a lovely background to the majestic mosque.  Here's a picture of the beautiful mosque on a usual day and in the sunset above it.

Remarkable isn't it. And what is even remarkable is when you step inside the masjid. You feel so calm, peaceful and at ease. Its truly something that you should not miss in your visit to Terengganu. Don't forget to catch the next issue of  Terengganu Travel Guide for more fascinating travel tips on Terengaanu