Marang

assalamualaikum.. this work belong to Nadzirah Husna Bt Ali 2011811504, Nor Baizura Bt Sapee 2011283886, and Siti Hajar Bt Alias 2011259562.

INTERESTING   PLACES IN  MARANG, TERENGGANU

First place that famous in Marang is Kapas Island. Kapas Island was located around 6km from Marang jetty. It probably inherited its name from its white powdery beaches which looked like 'kapas' or cotton as symbols of paradise on earth. Like Lang Tengah, Kapas Island is not a big island.

There are plenty of choices for accommodation on the island, ranging from camping site, guesthouse, bed and breakfast, chalet and resorts etc., mainly run by the villagers in Marang. Resulted from the price competition in addition to the easy accessibility, it is always the chosen destination for backpackers

Marang Fishing Village

Marang fishing village can be seen from the bridge crossing over        Sungai (River) Marang. At the end of the bridge having crossed from the southside (i.e. from direction of Rantau Abang) is a little dirt road leading into a fishing village where the fishermen park their boats and where they unload their catch.

The local community is committed to bringing back the old ways. There are plenty of village activities to sink yourself into but please remember that the local folk are not used to wayward behavior and dressing.

For the keen photographer, this is a fine place to capture some of that classic 'men-at-work' series. But if you want to catch the boat to Pulau Kapas (Cotton Island), then get yourself to Marang village. Again if you're crossing the bridge from the south, about 100m from the end of the bridge turn right into a narrow road. The village is situated at the mouth of the river.

The local community is committed to bringing back the old ways. There are plenty of village activities to sink yourself into but please remember that the local folk are not used to wayward behaviour and dressing.

Marang has seen a lot of changes due to the influx of tourists in the earlier years. The general idea of many resort owners and tour operators is to pack in as many people during the peak season as possible. So much said about this, there usually are some sacrifices made.

MARANG MARKET & JETTY

The Marang Market is situated opposite the food stalls which were quite packed. An item to note was that on Friday morning, most of the shops, including food stalls, were closed. 

The environment here clean 

We can rest here as we can look to the scenery

Not far from Marang town is a lovely R&R called Pantai Peranginan Kelulut, Marang. From this vantage point, Pulau Kapas looks very big since it is only about 15 minutes ride by boat.

ALONG THE COASTLINE OF MARANG

Marang have a very long coastline. It covers from the suburbs of Kuala Terengganu up to Rhu Madu, just before Rantau Abang, which is under the district of Dungun. These were some of the scenes along this beautiful coastal road.

Pulau Kapas as seen from Pantai Peranginan Kelulut, Marang

Pantai Peranginan Kelulut as seen from the main road

Almost reaching Rantau Abang, is a R&R area called Rhu Madu. It is an area recovered by Mangroves swamps. Plenty of mosquitoes.

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Kemaman

BY: sarah hida binti Ibrahim (2011287798)

   :siti solehah binti ahmad zainuddin (2011891754)

   :nur najlaa ardina binti mohamad naziruddin (2011217014)

1)Telaga Simpul

 Telaga Simpul is located near Bukit Penjabab of Kuala Kemaman near Pantai Marina.  Telaga Simpul (Travellers’ Wishing Well) was mentioned in the journals of famous Malay traveller, Abdullah Munshi, almost a hunderd years ago. There is a fresh water well which travellers used to freshen and replenish their water supply. According to myths, travellers must tie a knot of the pandanus leaf and place it by the well to avoid bad luck along the journey. Today, the place has been restored and there are basic amenities provided.

How To Get Here

Located about 15km from Chukai on the coastal road towards Kuala Terengganu, follow the road to Kemaman Port and Pantai Marina signage.

2) Firefly’s sanctuary in Sungai Yak Yah

Firefly’s sanctuary in Sungai Yak Yah, Kampung Ibok, provides another attraction in Kemaman.  Take a river cruise down the Yak Yah River to watch one of the wonders of nature, the flickering lights of the fireflies on tree branches are certainly a magical sight to behold. The rhythmic flashes produced vary by sex and species and scientist believe that flashes are part of a communication system to attract mates or as a warning sign to predators. The memory of these ‘Christmas trees’ lining the mangrove banks of the river can often be cherished only in one’s mind, as it is quite difficult to capture the scene in a photograph. It is nature’s magical illumination of fireflies that creates the symphony of lights that are truly a sight to behold.

How To Get Here

Arrange with local tour operator to take you to Sungai Yakyah in Kampung Ibok, about 15km from Kijal. There are battery operated boats available at the main jetty which provides an undisturbed trip to watch one of the nature’s wonders.



3) Kemaman Mini Zoo & Recreational Park

Kemaman Mini Zoo & Recreational Park, a new tourism attraction was officially opened on April 11th 2009. Located in Kg Ibok, about 14km from Chukai Town, it is a great option for recreational activities during both weekends and holidays.

Among the attractions are the waterpark, suspension bridge, orchid garden, aquarium, elephant park, observation deck, bird park, fruits orchard and herbs garden. Among the facilities are buggy rides, resting area, parking space, prayer’s room, toilets and pedestrian treks. There will be entrance fees at the main gate and at selected attractions. Its First Phase covers a 35 acres area, while another 20 acres will be developed under its Second Phase project.

How To Get Here

From Kuantan / Chukai Town: use Jalan Mak Chili – Ibok

From Kuala Terengganu: use Jalan Kerteh – Ibok. 

4)PANTAI KEMASIK

This beach is very popular among the locals. While it is not appropriate to compare it to the beach of the highly popular islands of Terengganu, namely Pulau Redang, the Perhentians and Pulau Lang Tengah, the beach does have its own charm. 

The light-orange sands are fairly soft, with the sea breeze gently sweeps away through your face. In the evening, there are a few locals coming here to play beach soccer or volleyball. There are also 2-3 food stalls selling local delicacies such as fried keropok lekor and fried cuttlefish.

One can also go swimming here, particularly at the right-hand side of the beach between the two huge rocks which make into a so-called private swimming pool and lovely beach. Nearby one can also view the rustic fishing village at the river mouth of Kemasik River. 

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Hulu Terengganu

This work belong to Nur Atikah Bt Azlan (2011476476), Rosanita Bt Ahmad (2011260578), Norfaizah Bt Ismail (2011233884)

HUTAN LIPUR SEKAYU

Hutan ini dihuni oleh pelbagai flora dan fauna. Hutan rekreasi Sekayu adalah salah satu hutan rekreasi paling terkenal di Terengganu dan menjdai tempat kegemaran bagi pengunjung yang penat seharian bekerja .

Air jernih dan dingin yang mengalir dari Air Terjun Sekayu dan keindahan alam di sekitar sangat sesuai untuk merehatkan fikiran dan tubuh badan serta sangat sesuai untuk membawa keluarga anda berkelah dan mengambil bahagian dalam aktiviti rekreasi.

Hutan Rekreasi juga mempunyai kawasan luas yang sesuai untuk berkelah bersama keluarga dan aktiviti lain. Disini terdapat kemudahan ruangan menganti pakaian dan bilik mandi serta tempat berkhemah disekeliling lengkap pengan pelbagai kemudahan memasak dan bekalan air bersih.

Pengunjung boleh berehat dan berjalan di sepanjang sungai dan Taman Pertanian Negeri yang baru dibina berdekatan Hutan Lipur.

Di Taman Pertanian ini, pengunjung akan melihat taman bunga, taman anggrek, kebun buah, kebun, taman burung dan haiwan di kebun binatang mini seperti monyet, berang-berang, Beruang Malaysia dan lain-lain. Pengunjung juga boleh berjalan di sepanjang jalan ke tapak hutan yang disusun oleh jabatan untuk melihat pelbagai jenis tanaman dan kehidupan liar di hutan dekat situ.

TASIK KENYIR

Tasik Kenyir merupakan tasik buatan terbesar di Asia Tenggara, meliputi 260,000 hektar. Ini juga merupakan empangan yang terbesar Malaysia diisi bendungan air. Ketika kawasan ini banjir, sebahagian besar bukit-bukit di atas permukaan air, sehingga membuat sekitar 340 pulau buatan manusia.

Hutan hujan yang subur hidup melimpahkan tasik yang luar biasa ini dengan pelbagai flora dan fauna langka termasuk pakis, anggrek eksotis, burung enggang, gajah, dan macan kumbang. Hal ini dipercayai bahawa kawasan tersebut adalah rumah bagi lebih daripada 8,000 jenis bunga, 2,500 spesies tanaman dan pokok, 800 jenis anggrek, dan 300 jenis cendawan.

Tasik Kenyir terletak sekitar 55 km dari Kuala Terengganu pedalaman dan adalah tasik buatan terbesar di dunia. Merangkumi lebih daripada 260,000 hektar, ini merupakan destinasi popular bagi pecinta alam kerana dikelilingi oleh hutan hujan tropika yang rimbun. Setelah selesainya bendungan air, air meningkat mencipta 340 pulau, lebih dari 14 air terjun yang indah dan beberapa jeram dan sungai. Pengkalan Gawi mempunyai perkhidmatan dermaga perahu untuk perjalanan dan pemindahan pulau resort.

Tasik Kenyir juga merupakan pintu gerbang ke Taman Negara melalui Tanjung Mentong. Ini juga merupakan syurga kepada pemancing kerana tasik ini dihuni ratusan jenis ikan air tawar seperti baung, toman, Kelisa, Lampam dan kelah.

Penginapan yang banyak dari sebuah resort bintang 3, vila di Pulau-pulau, rumah bergerak atau houseboats mana bilik dan makan disediakan. Rumah kapal itu menjadikan perjalanan ke air terjun dan laman memancing menjadikan saat yang menyeronokkan bagi pecinta alam.

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Setiu

This work are belong to Marhapizieriyana bt Mohd Rudin (2011452092), Nik Nurul Nazurah bt Nik Khalid ( 2011897058), Nurul Atiqah Ghaffar ( 2011808464)

Setiu is a District youngest of seven districts in the State of Terengganu. Established as a result of recommendations Modernisation and Development Administration Unit (MAMPU) on 1 January 1985. The new district has an area of ​​135,905.80 hectares. Is 10.49% of the total size of the State. Bordered by the Kuala Terengganu, Hulu Terengganu and Besut. Divided into seven parishes of the Mukim Pantai (8,499.40 hectares), Mukim Guntung (16,348.50 hectares), Mukim Tasik (5,827.10 hectares), Mukim Hulu Setiu (23,292.90 hectares), Mukim Calok (20,589.60 hectares), Mukim Merang (6,825 hectares) and Mukim Hulu Nerus (54,523.30 hectares)

PANTAI PENARIK

From Kuala Terengganu, head north towards Kota Bharu along the coastal road, which is the secondary route that plies between these two major cities of the east coast. If you are not sure, ask the local which one is the 'Jalan Pantai' (costal road). It should lead you through the town of Batu Rakit, into the District of Setiu, passing by the entrance into Sutra Beach Resort and Merang Jetty (the designated boat launch pad for Redang and Lang Tengah). Look out for the signboard to Pantai Penarik.

Pantai Penarik is located within a recreational area frequently attended by the locals. There seemed to be a camping ground and probably some motel rooms here too. The water is fantastic and the view of traditional fishing boats docked at the beach by the local villagers is something you could treasure. The beach tend to get very breezy because of the open sea. From here, you can catch a glimpse of the famous islands off the coast of Terengganu - on the far left are the Perhentians, sitting in the middle is the small island of Pulau Lang Tengah, and far right is the world-famous Pulau Redang. There are a few food stalls here, plenty of picnic benches and ample parking spots. Recommended for a quick stop to enjoy the scenic beach view.

PANTAI MERANG

Pantai Merang is located in the District of Setiu in the central section of Terengganu state. In general, the long coastline of Pantai Merang is located about 30 kilometres to the north of Kuala TerengganuThe name of "Merang" is rather unfortunate as it is often mistaken for another popular beach area that goes by the name of "Marang" to the south of Kuala Terengganu. In recent days, the many beaches along the stretch of coastal Setiu district have gained better visibility to the public with the ever-growing flock of tourists to the idyllic islands off the coast of Pantai Merang, namely Pulau Redang and Pulau Lang Tengah. In fact, regular island goers have to make the compulsory stop at Pantai Merang where the main passenger boat jetty is located.

As Pantai Merang gets out of the ghastly shadow of Pantai Marang, the proliferation of medium- and high-class resorts start to stamp its mark on this long stretch of beautiful beach. Hospitality establishments such as The Aryani and Sutra Beach Resort have been adorning its white sandy beaches for many years, and as of recently, Merang Suria Resort had joined the fray to capture a slice of stopover tourists heading to the popular islands off the coast of Terengganu. It is not uncommon for island-bound visitors originating from different parts of Malaysia and Singapore to stay overnight at the many beach resorts of Pantai Merang before appropriately heading to the islands from Merang Jetty.

Near to the confluence of Sungai Merang and the South China Sea, a massive breakwater has been erected to regulate the depth of the river estuary. The construction has resulted in a man-made lagoon fronting the camping ground on the beach. During my visit, the camping ground seemed to be used for the ongoing National Service Camp (or Kem Khidmat Negara). In the so-called public park area, the beach is decidedly beautiful with swaying coconut trees and shady casuarina trees that produce whistling sounds when the wind is blowing strongly. Nonetheless, I do feel that the public facilities along the beach and around the park to be in dire needs of maintenance.

A good spot that I recommended for a visit is the Merang Observatory Station (or Balai Cerap for Universiti Darul Iman). The place looks like a planetarium and is actually used for sky-gazing to determine the beginning of the many special months of Islamic calendar. As the observatory is perched on top of a hill overlooking the vast expanse of Pantai Merang, the view can be considered spectacular.

Note that there are many beaches that can be considered Pantai Merang as the beach stretch itself is extremely long and largely uninhabited. There are probably a lot more beach sections to be discovered off the beaten track along the coastal road that connects Kuala Terengganu to Kota Bharu. Be on the lookout and find your best and personalised spot.

PELADANG AGRO RESORT

Agro Resort, which is located 89km from Kuala Terengganu and 13 km from the Bandar Permaisuri, is one of the most sought passage for those who love nature because of their range of 280 hectares that situated next to Hutan Simpan Gunung Tebu. As you enter there, you'll be greeted by lush tropical forest, shimmering lakes, rivers, waterfalls and mysterious caves. Feast your eyes upon their rustic scenery of floating chalets in the midst of oil palm plantation, cattle farm, orchards and their paradise forest reserve.

Agro Resort serve you an array of conveniences for their guest, with the charm of 58 exotic chalets of traditional Malay architectural design. Simply unwind in any 3 of modest dorminotories, The Dahlia as well as Cempaka convention halls and Mawar and Melur meeting room have various facilities and can accommodate 40-250 persons. There is also a floating restaurant and a dining hall. Being thoughful, Agro Resort also have built a prayer hall for the convenience of Muslim guests. Among the most interesting elements of the agricultural sites to Agro Resort is like landscaping, fish pond, herb garden, oil palm plantations, fruit plantations, Agro Theme Park, Oyster Mushroom Project Goat Farm Project as a tourism product is a new tourist attraction in the state.

Idle away the hours at the Garden Centre and bring home gifts of young plants and fruits trees for your friends and loved one. With that concept, those visiting the resort will be impressed with the beauty of the scenic views of the lake, including some fresh cold air is accompanied by a tropical rain forest. 

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Besut

This is belong to Nur Syawani Bt mat Usuf (2011651924), Hashimah A/P Ishak (2011615224), Siti Noor Farhana Binti Ismail (2011441698) & Fatin Nadia Bt Abd. Manaf (2011894566)

ATTRACTION PLACES IN BESUT, TERENGGANU

BUKIT KELUANG

Bukit Keluang has its own attractions that can amaze both local and overseas for its beauty and uniqueness. In addition, visitors to Kuala Besut also have the opportunity to gain experience draws from its own preferred activities such as fishing, kite and others. Bukit Keluang  located about 19 km from the city Jerteh is also one of the main attraction in this area. It is also the same as the other beaches available in Besut is the source of natural attractions with clean sand beaches and the hills. Here, there are many facilities such as rest homes, restaurants, public restrooms, gazebos to relax and others. Greenery yet undisturbed forest who's reconciling. Clean beaches and the deep blue sea as well as the beauty of the small islands that can be seen from a distance, making this very famous tourist destination for visitors. The beauty of this place is also an attraction for those who engage in the activity or television drama filming. Invalid if a visit here without enjoying the beautiful view from the top of the ladder Bukit Keluang.

1)    BUKIT TEBU

Mount Cane uniqueness is in its peak there is a grave and place-pesilat pesilat choice for meditating. Sugar Mountain locations located in Cascade Recreational Forest truncheon of 24 km from the town Jertih through Kuala Terengganu Road-Jertih, 118 km from Kuala Terengganu. To reach this forest visitors can use their own vehicles or taxis from the city or town Jertih Queen. From Jertih town, we headed straight for the Village Jabi for the Recreational Forest truncheon.

       Recreational Forest Lata truncheon, is the starting point for climbing Mount Cane. Here are a resort and cottage Forest Department. All climbers must register at the booth before starting the climb. Each person is charged at RM5 a climbing permit.

       Here also the visitors can do a variety of activities such as camping and sightseeing. Other facilities available are stalls, booths and equipped with electricity.

  

1)    KOLAM AIR PANAS

This warm water area is located in the interior of Hulu Besut about 28 km from the City Jertih Terengganu. This tourism center that is known by calling La Hot Spring was opened to the public as a tourist place in 1992 in conjunction with the launch of the Expo Cultural District Development and Town Besut. Visitors get to see the hot water out through the holes of a hill and continue to flow into the ponds provided. Running hot water contains chemical "SULFUR" or sulfur with the heat reaching 49 degrees Celsius. It is nourishing to cure skin diseases and also bathing. There is also a heated container Wadding Pool (THERMOS).

  

1)    LATA BELATAN

   

Lata Belatan located in Gunung Tebu Forest in the Forest Administration Utara.It is located approximately 15 kilometers south of the city Jerteh or 103 kilometers from  the city of Kuala Terengganu. Among the activities that can be done here is to relax and enjoy the natural beauty, picnic alone, with family or a group, camping and jungle trekking (jungle tracking).  For those who want a challenge and feel the atmosphere of a meaningful forest adventure, may climb to the summit of Gunung Tebu  with height 1.097 meters above sea level. The climb takes about 5 hours to reach the peak. Cold weather conditions with the plants mountain environment of various types as well as impressive views add to the uniqueness of this area.The facilities provided here are food stalls, toilets, prayer, rest huts, suspension bridges, guard houses and campsites.

1)    LATA TEMBAKAH

Located in the Forest Pelagat District of Besut. It covers an area of ​​300 hectares and is located approximately 24 miles from Jerteh and 130 km from the city of.Forest area was first developed in 1987 and a magnet for visitors from inside and outside the state caused by a number of privileges that are available here such as natural vegetation, pristine rivers, waterfalls and natural pools that are ideal for purpose for picnic with family.Here is very popular as a destination for camping activities. Every weekend or school holidays, this place is never quiet as always with awareness camp on human development, identity, scouts, police cadets and others.Lata Tembakah  into focus not only the local residents but also those who live outside the Besut. A suspension bridge provided other waterfalls and beautiful rock certainly be cool eye of the beholder.

1)    Pantai Air Tawar

Here there are facilities such as hotels, chalets, telephone booths, food booths, children's playground and more.Each year the resort area is constantly Culture and Art Fair was held to celebrate the arrival of the tourists here.Freshwater beach famous for its beaches and is not very strange for many of the local residents. With existing facilities, it is often a family vacation destination besides being the venue of choice for cultural activities and so on. Of pavilions facilities provided facilitate various activities can be implemented.

1)    PULAU PERHENTIAN

  There are more than 1,000 guest rooms of the 42 chalets and resort operators in various categories including Luxury Resort, Chalet middle and lower class, Dorm and camping areas with a rental rate of RM 50 to RM 300 per day. Its crystal clear waters and variety of marine life other than the suitability of the place makes it a popular tourist center with snorkeling activities, soating, camping and see turtles laying eggs.Originality and beauty of the natural environment that have not been affected as inland sea, sand and rocks, caves, hills, forests and natural vegetation allow various activities can be carried out such as jungle trekking, research and so on.  Perhentian Island is also a tourist attraction for scuba diving activities and certificates issued are recognized globally. Active involvement either directly or indirectly the local population in the tourism industry can help to improve the economic status of the population in Pulau Perhentian and indirectly move downstream activities in the services sector of the island. Perhentian Island cluster include:a) Pulau Perhentian Besar b) Pulau Perhentian Kecil c) Pulau Susu Dara  and small islands to another.

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Dungun

This work are belong to Che Engku Nur Idayu Binti Che Engku Adzi (2011886786), Nor Hamizah bt Ibrahim (2011477748), Nur Afiqah Bt Salleh (2011601644) and Rahsila Emira Binti Alias (2011253412) here it is : 

Dungun is a coastal district of the Malaysian state of Terengganu. Kuala Dungun is the capital of the district.

Kuala Dungun town used to be an iron mining town in the 1940s. Iron ores were actually mined in a small town inland called Bukit Besi located to the west, while Kuala Dungun served as the port where the ore was transferred onto ships. Kuala Dungun and Bukit Besi were then connected with a railway line that not only served the mining industry but also served as public transportation for inland villagers, the Dungun township and its businesses.

This "golden" era ended in the late 70s and early 80s. 

When the mines were gradually closed-down, the rail service stopped and the company left the area. Bukit Besi is now a Government-financed plantation estate; the rolling hills and old British architecture are now long gone, replaced by Felda Estate housing and palm oil trees. Kuala Dungun is now just another town on the coast of Terengganu, sorely bereft of cultural activities, with no cinemas and only comes alive every Thursday when the weekly nightmarket opens up for business. It is well known as the biggest night-market in Terengganu and featured second-hand clothing (imported from Japan and the United States) and also food of all sorts. People from the outskirts would be flowing into town for the cheap goods. The night market is situated right in the middle of town, taking over a portion of the old railway line.

Nowadays, it is not a busy small town anymore. There are still pockets of fishing and farming families and some people involved in small businesses, while a large part of the population are involved with the petroleum industry concentrated in another township in the south, Kerteh.

Tanjung Jara Resort with its beautiful stretch of beaches, situated on the other side of the river mouth is still popular with foreigners and West Coast tourists. For those who look for eco-tourism spot, D'Pengkalan Eco Resort offer 3 natures spot at cool location in Dungun district.

Culture

Dungun was the recreational place for British employees of the mining company of the day. It was where they relaxed and pursue extracurricular activities. There were music halls, record stores, cricket fields etc. that made Dungun different from other townships in Terengganu at the time. The locals were somehow influenced by this, especially by the 60's and 70s pop music brought in by the stores to cater for the British. The late 70's were known as the time where there were a lot of local musicians and bands active in the small township. One of the bands was Purple Haze, a psychedelic hard rock band in which Malaysia's well-known music composer Manan Ngah a member. The first Malaysian punk rock scene was started here in 1978/79 by Joe Kidd and his friends.

As of 2006, Dungun is experiencing an uplift. To keep money in the district, Dungun has received an influx of funds that has gone to the improvement of roads and establishment of several new shopping areas.

http://www.tanjongjararesort.com/

Bukit Tebuk Tunnel

The Bukit Tebuk Tunnel which is about 120 meters long at Kampung Che Lijah in Dungun, build in 1935 is a surviving remnants of the Bukit Besi Mines and its glorious past.
Trains transporting iron ore and passengers used to run pass this historic tunnel from Bukit Besi to the jetty at Sura.

This tunnel is a well known site in Terengganu, especially to the people in the district of Dungun back in the old days. Bukit Tebuk or literally translated as Perforation Hill, has been officially named as one of the historical site in Dungun, Terengganu. This hill (bukit) was perforated (tebuk) to make way for the rail carrier, hence the name Bukit Tebuk Tunnel. This tunnel is located in Kampuung Nibong Kubur.

Bukit Tebuk Tunnel construction started in 1935 and finished in 1936 and was used as a main track for the train which carries ores and miners from Bukit Besi to Sura Gate Port which is located at Pantai Teluk Lipat. The railway was closed from operation around 1970’s after the ore mine in Bukit Besi was closed. However the tunnel is still used until now by the locals as a alternative way to reach the main road of Kuantan-Kuala Terengganu to avoid the havoc of central and also as a passage for the locals to reach Bandar Dungun.

Sadly, this historical site today is no longer as majestic as it used to be, the place is now looked almost like a dump, with vines and garbage everywhere, with signs of drug addicts and graffiti all over the walls. This historical site needs to be taken care of by the authorities to make sure this historical site will gain its majestical state once more, even though it has been closed for a long time. 

BUKIT BESI

I can think of better explanation about bukit besi than this guide article about Bukit Besi's History ....It better than my description about Bukit besi and would not be right for me to continue using my article when this guy has wrote a very good description about Bukit Besi, Terengganu in his article.

Title the Legacy of Iron Hill by ALIAS MOHAMED

It was once the centre of iron-mining activities, a town that boomed with activities and jobs for 8,000 people. ALIAS MOHAMED revisits Bukit Besi

IT was 50 years ago when I witnessed the first Jalur Gemilang being hoisted at Padang Astaka in Bukit Besi (Iron Hill), Terengganu to celebrate the historic Merdeka Day. At that time, the old “Iron Town” was still lively and filled with activities.

One of the plants for processing iron ore

But today, it is far from what it used to be. It is now very quiet – especially in the hills. In the old days, convoys of heavy vehicles and mining vessels snaked their way up the hills amidst sounds of activities and explosions from the mines. Indeed, Bukit Besi was well-known, not only in this region, but throughout the world including America and Japan.

“At that time, nobody would have thought that Bukit Besi would just ‘die away’ like this,” said a former iron ore miner, 72-year-old Mat Husin Abdullah.

Bukit Besi, located 85km from Kuala Terengganu and formerly known as Permata Bumi or literally the “Jewel of the Earth”, was first opened for iron-ore mining in 1916. But, about a century later, the mines were closed when the lodes were depleted.

Initially, the mining was undertaken by a Japanese company but it was taken over by the British after the world war in 1945.

Later, another company from America, known as the Eastern Mining & Metal Company Limited (EMMCO) took over the operations until the place was closed in early 70s. Nearly 8,000 workers, including foreigners, were employed in the mines.

Besides providing the locals with jobs, the company also provided a better and modern standard of living for the workers compared to people in other parts of Terengganu. The nearest town is Dungun, about 30km away.

Bukit Besi used to be known as Bukit Seri Bangun and stood at 400m high. It was the centre for mining activities. But somehow, the hill does not seem to be that high now and plants that used to grow on the slopes have disappeared. The whole place looks ghostly.

Saving A Legacy

In an effort to save the legacy of Bukit Besi, the Terengganu State Government has decided to gazette all the former iron-mine sites in and around it as historical heritage.

Terengganu State Culture, Youth, Sports and Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) committee chairman Din Adam said several lots had been identified and allocated for the project, including a site for a museum.

Among the places earmarked are Bukit Seren and Bukit Tebuk, two distinguished landmarks of the iron-mine town. Also included for preservation are the remains of the mining equipment as well as railway tracks and tunnels for transporting and processing the iron ore.

A former Bukit Besi iron mine worker, Ananda Kumar, 68, came all the way from India to visit his “hometown” recently. He said: “It’s very sad to see a place, that used to be known as one of the booming towns in this region, so neglected and left to rot as if it has no historical value,” he said in almost perfect Bahasa Malaysia.

How To Get There

From Kuantan, drive along the interior road passing through Bandar Al-Mukhtafi Billah Shah (Ketengah) for 170km before turning into Bukit Besi on the left. It is 32km from Dungun and 90km from Kuala Terengganu. Contact Pusat Khidmat Masyarakat DUN Bukit Besi, Tel: 09-833 7100.

Located 85 km south of Kuala Terengganu, iron-ore at Bukit Besi was first discovered by a team of Japanese geologists in 1919 and in 1923; Kuhara Mining Company secured the mining rights and placed Dungun in the world map. The company employed 130 Japanese and more than 3,000 locals to work in the mine. During World War II, the mining was taken over by Nippon Mining Company but the hardship of war had taken its toll on the production of the iron ore. It was taken over by a British company after the war ended.  Later on, an American mining company, Eastern Mining & Metal Company Limited (EMMCO) took over the operations employing more than 8,000 workers including locals and foreigners. Dungun district emerged as one of the world’s largest iron-ore supplier to meet the world industrial demand.

However, in the early 1970’s, economic downturn and the depleting resources was the reason good enough for the company to abandon the operation as it is no longer viable to mine. Today, visitors can still marvel at the remnants of tunnels, processing plants, stockpile buildings, the manager’s exclusive residence and parts of the rail tracks to Pantai Teluk Lipat in Kuala Dungun. Chimneys spread among the vast area further adds to the mystery. It was believed to be remnants of a network of underground processing plant built by the Japanese during the second World War. To those looking for souvenirs, some raw, unprocessed iron-ore can still be found scattered on the ground, a stark reminder of one of the biggest iron-ore producer in the world.

How To Get Here

By car

From Kuala Terengganu, head south towards Jerangau-Jabor route until junction with Route 14 (Jalan Jabor-Al Muktafi Billah Shah). Head south on Route 14 until you reach Bukit Besi. From Dungun town, take Route 132 (Jalan Bukit Besi-Dungun) from Kuala Dungun westward until junction with Route 14 (Jalan Jabor-Al Muktafi Billah Shah). Head south on Route 14 until you reach Bukit Besi.

By air

There are flights to Kuala Terengganu by Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia or Firefly. From the airport, grab an airport taxi or hire a car to southbound Dungun.

MUSEUM DUNGUN

THE HISTORY OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE ‘DUNGUN DISTRICT MUSEUM’

The idea of the establishment of the District Museum came from the Launching of the East Coast Economic Region ( ECER ) by the Y.A.B. the Prime Minister of Malaysia on the 28^th October 2007 who stressed on promoting tourism of the beaches, the islands, the cultures and the heritage of tourism. The Terengganu Museum Board had proposed to the State Government establish a museum in the Dungun District because Dungun is well-known all over the world for its connection with iron ore mining in Bukit Besi since the 1930s. A ‘soft opening’ ceremony of the Dungun District Museum was held in 19^th August 2008.

 http://museum.terengganu.gov.my/maxc2020/agensi/article.php?cid=43&aid=6966 (portal rasmi museum Terengganu)

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