06/02/2013
Will be the warm reception that greets every visitor to Terengganu. A state on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia, Terengganu is destination of natural attractions and the charms of the old world of tropical beaches and rainforest, and also of traditional and culture that are well and truly alive.
Terengganu is located at the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. To the north there lies the Kelantan state, then neighbouring with Pahang at the south. Terengganu today covers 12,995 square kilometers and comprises of seven districts: Besut, Setiu, Kemaman, Dungun, Marang, Hulu Terengganu and Kuala Terengganu.
Terengganu hold the charms and splendours unique from other states in Malaysia. Until today, though rapid development and modernization slowly adapts to the way of life, yet it is as if time stood still as she retains all the rustic and idyllic charms so different from other places.
Terengganu is also home to diverse and close-knit society, where people are friendly, ever willing to help and warm with strong morals and values. People different races shares the bonds of neighbourhoods, shares the likings of local food and particularly speaks the same local dialect. The capital of Terengganu is the coastal city of Kuala Terengganu, which is also the royal capital. The state is also known by its Arabic honorific, Darul Iman ("Abode of Faith").
ECONOMY
The discovery of offshore oil in gas in 1974 has granted Terengganu a significant change to its economic, technology and social structure. At current production, the oil and gas reserves are estimated to last for another 13 years and 41 years respectively.
Terengganu has enjoyed considerable development over the past 30 years with its rapid industrialization and growing economic activity after the discovery of these reserves. One of Terengganu's main industries is oil. There are huge petrochemical complexes near Paka and Kijal, involving many joint ventures between the Malaysian national oil company, Petronas, and foreign multinationals.
Tourism and fishing are also major industries in Terengganu, a state with a long coastline that is well known within Malaysia for local foods including Keropok Lekor, which is made primarily from a combination of dough and pounded fish, fried and served with hot sauce. Agriculture also remains important in this developing state, with many fresh bananas, rambutan, durian, watermelons, and various other fruits and vegetables available in season. Before this, farming and fishing were the main economic activities for the state.
Even so, 45% of its land is still covered by lush pristine forests and rivers also home for some very old Malaysia traditional culture whose practices and customs have been handed down the generations. The 225 km of coastline is not only making Terengganu the state with the longest coastline in Peninsular Malaysia but also contributing to the state GNP. As a holiday destination, Terengganu is a never-ending journey of discovery with its rich and exotic culture, breathtaking wonders of nature and endless potential for adventure.
CULTURE & RELIGION
Due to its history background and geographical location, Terengganu receives cultural influences from the neighbours in the north: Kelantan and Thailand. Though it is conservative Muslim state, the general public is still enjoying the freedom of worship. However, beer or alcohol is not widely available in certain places especially Malay own shops. Always remember that while in Rome, do as the Romans do.
WORKING WEEK
Most of the offices start the week on Sunday and the weekend falls on Friday and Saturday
