The Chronicles of Kelantan

Introduction

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 22:29:00 +0000

Kelantan, which translates as the "Land of Lightning" is a veritable treasure throve of delights - rustic fishing villages, verdant padi fields and languid, palm-fringed beaches.

Tucked away in the north-eastern corner of Peninsular Malaysia, the people of Kelantan have managed to keep alive age-old customs and traditions, thus earning the state a reputation as the Cradle of Malay Culture.

Introduction Kelantan, which translates as the "Land of Lightning" is a veritable treasure throve of delights - rustic fishing villages, verdant padi fields and languid, palm-fringed beaches. Tucked away in the north-eastern corner of Peninsular Malaysia, the people of Kelantan have managed to keep alive age-old customs and traditions, thus earning the state a reputation as the Cradle of Malay Culture. Here, colourful kites soar upwards defying gravity and giant drums reverberate. Shadow puppets mesmerise audiences and giant tops provide hours of endless fun.

Kelantan has a population of about 1.4 million ; 95% is Malay with Chinese, Indians and Orang Asli making up the rest. Kelantanese are renowned for their warmth and friendliness. Kelantan Darul Naim is a world of gracious beauty, retaining an old-world charm that few can resist. Come, let her natural attributes work their magic on you!

Kelantanese Cuisine

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 14:50:00 +0000

Just like its histories and cultural heritage, Kelantanese cuisine is richly diverse. Kelantan is well known for its unique dishes. The state is a home or a treasure house for some of the best food found in Malaysia. Nasi dagang, nasi kerabu, nasi berlauk, laksam, ayam percik, daging bakar, lompat tikam and akok are among the popular dishes from Kelantan. Now I will list down some famous dishes and the most visited locations.

Nasi Kerabu
Nasi kerabu is the most famous Kelantanese dish which is extremely healthy and for sure it is unique. It is a type of native food in Kelantan which is a famous blue rice that you must try if you come Kelantan. Basically, there are several types of nasi kerabu and for sure the blue rice is the most common. The rice is served with various types of vegetables and herbs such as onion, cucumber, bean sprout, torch ginger flower and many more. Then they are mixed with main ingredients such as fish meat, fried coconut called kerisik, fish crackers and for sure "budu" which is the main seasoning made from fish sauce.

There are many side dishes that can be added together like "ayam percik and "gulai kawah".

There should be no problem in finding a location to try nasi kerabu because it can be found at most of the restaurants in Kelantan.

Satay Malaysia

Located at Kota Bharu, with a wide area and a large building as a restaurant, the restaurant is easier to be spotted. The location is near to the main road and is always full with customers. Most of them prefer to be seated on the outside of the restaurant while enjoying the breeze of the night. Same like the other restaurant, Satay Malaysia also serves a variety of dishes alongside their famous satay. Basically, the chunks of chicken and beef were marinated well, then grilled to a slight charred finish. What makes it different compared to the other satay outlets is they throw the thick, Benggali bread on the grill and roast them until slightly toasted, with charred sides. Best of all, the bread did their job well in mopping up the peanut sauce. Something that is not available in other satay restaurants.

The preview of satay served by Satay Malaysia.

Satay Malaysia is a perfect place for gathering, a family dinner, or simply when you wanna stuff your face at odd hours of the night. You can find them at Satay Malaysia, PT 1645, Batu 3 3/4, Jalan Pengkalan Chepa, Kota Bharu, Kelantan.

Yati Ayam Percik

The another famous restaurant in Kelantan is Yati Ayam Percik. They has been opened for about 40 years old and they has two branches at Bandar Baru Bangi and Kajang. The main outlet is currently at Kota Bharu, along the main road of Long Yunus. Their main specialties are nasi kerabu, ayam percik, gulai kawah, and daging bakar. In addition, they also sell varieties of desserts that surely will satiate your appetite.

The restaurant is not fancy but the foods served are beyond your expectation.

It is no doubtful that Yati Ayam Percik is the heaven of Kelantanese cuisines and you can find them at Yati Ayam Percik, 847 Jln Long Yunus, 15200 Kota Bharu, Kelantan.

Kedai Kopi White House

Located at the centre of Kota Bharu, White House is a must stop-over for every first-timer to Kota Bharu because it is one of the most popular among locals and tourists. The place is opened at 8am and by that hour, it is already packed with customers. White House is famous for its local coffee, toast, half-boiled eggs. You can also enjoy their packed nasi berlauk, nasi dagang, and many more.

White House may be an old building but the foods served will never disappointing you.

It is an easy task to find White House since it is located next to the Sultan Ismail Petra Arch and Istana Jahar. It is relatively small compared to huge buildings in the vicinity but you can find them at Kedai Kopi White House, 1329-L, Jalan Sultanah Zainab, Kota Bharu, Kelantan.

Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah
Last but not least, there is no need for a long introduction for this place since most of people already know about it. Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah is the largest market in Kelantan and the uniqueness is the majority of the traders at the market are ladies. There are three floors altogether. The lowest floor houses the wet market where fresh produce like fruits and vegetables, poultry are sold. Then, the second floor is for people who are looking for dried foodstuff such as the popular keropok ikan, cashew nuts, pistachios, salted fish and many more.

Variety range of foods can be found at Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah.

To get there is not a problem. Due to its huge size, it is not hard to find because it can be seen from far away. It is located next to Bazar Buluh Kubu.

Kelantan's Art and Culture

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 19:29:00 +0000

Kelantan's traditional cultural song sing by cute little girl.

Kelantan is known as the cradle of Malay culture based on the diverse cultural activities practised by Kelantanese. Among the popular cultural practices are Dikir Barat, Wayang Kulit, Mak Yong, Wau Bulan (kite-flying), Gasing (top-spinning). If you are visiting Kelantan, it is a must to vist Cultural Centre on Jalan Mahmud in Kota Bharu which is a hub of Kelantan's cultures. Various of popular cultural practices can be found in one place.

Dikir Barat

The most famous cultural activity at Kelantan is Dikir Barat and it have been practiced by Kelantanese since a long time ago. Basically, it is a style of call and response singing originating in Kelantan . It is well known throughout the Peninsular through local television and performing groups. A dikir barat group, which may be of any size, is led by a "tukang karut" or leader who makes up poems and sings them as he goes along. The chorus echoes in response, verse by verse. Dikir barat groups usually perform during various festive occassions, and their poems are usually light entertainment and may be about any topic, but are not religious in nature. The chorus traditionally consists of all men, but modern groups, especially those performing on television, often include women. The singing being accompanied instead by rhythmic clapping and energetic body movements. In addition, they use a pair of frame drums or rebana, a shallow gong and a pair of maracas, for accompaniment.

The preview of Dikir Barat groups with their instruments.

Wayang Kulit

Wayang Kulit is another one famous cultural activity in Kelantan. It is well known at the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, especially in Kelantan. There is no evidence on the origin of Wayang Kulit but some people believe it was from Jawa and was brought here hundred years ago. Wayang Kulit is a very unique form of theatre employing the principle of light and shadow. The puppets are crafted from buffalo hide and mounted on bamboo sticks. When held up behind a piece of white cloth, with an electric bulb or an oil lamp as the light source, shadows are cast on the screen. In addition, the Tok Dalang is the one who plays the role behind the entire performance by sitting behind the screen and narrates the story. With a traditional orchestra in the background to provide a resonant melody and its conventional rhythm, the Tok Dalang modulates his voice to create suspense thus heightening the drama. Invariably, the play climaxes with the triumph of good over evil.

The preview of how Wayang Kulit looks like and how it is performed.

Mak Yong

Not to forget, Kelantan is also popular with its traditional dances. One of them is Mak Yong. Basically, it is a traditional dance drama practiced since decades ago by Kelantanese. The ritual of Mak Yong performance is more elaborate than that staged for entertainment, combining shamanism, feasting the spirits and dance theatre. It reflects the deep, mystical significance of Mak Yong's stories and dances, and its original aim to serve as a conduit to the spirit world. Ritual performances are enacted for spiritual healing, to pay homage to a teacher and for the graduation of a performer.

Mak Yong dancers during their performances.

Wau Bulan (Moon-Kite)

Kelantan is famous for the making of unique handicraft. Everything is surely 100% handmade and one of them is Wau bulan. What make it looks unique is the floral motifs that is traditionally flown by hand and it is so special because it is one of Malaysia's national symbols, along some others being the kris and hibiscus. In addition, it is more interesting because these waus or giant flying kites are often as big as a man, measuring about 3.5 metres from head to tail. It is the largest kite around and is capable of soaring to great heights. Not surprisingly, kite-flying here is a sport for men as some kites require at least two grown up men to handle. Most of the patterns are based on local flora and fauna like birds, animals and flowers. It usually fitted with a stringed bow which emits a soft, wailing sound when flown. Each kite is lavishly pasted with colorful designs and a work of art in it its own right. Kites are flown throughout the year but especially after the full moon harvest.

Some of the wau bulan previews that show the uniqueness of the motifs and its huge size.

Gasing (top-spinning)

Last but not least, the "Gasing" is one more cultural traditional activities and it is a favorite pastime among the East Coast Malays, especially those in the Kelantan. The "gasing" or top is about the size of a dinner plate and may weigh up to 5.5 kg. Spinning one is hardly child's play as it requires great dexterity and precise timing. After it is launched, the gasing is quickly scooped off the ground with a thin wooden bat and transferred onto a metal receptacle on a short wooden post. An expert top-spinner can make a perfectly balanced gasing spin for as long as two hours at a stretch, although, according to local belief, a top will spin for 24 hours or more if a spirit enters it. The making of a good top begins with the selection a fine piece of hard wood. In Kelantan and Terengganu, a few species are normally used. Even then, only the base and upper roots or the portion where a branch joins the trunk are acceptable. The wood takes a few weeks to dry naturally. It is then shaped into a discus. For metal top, the edge has to accurately grooved in order to have a good grip of the metal rim. A good top requires perfect symmetry which is an important attribute to longer spinning time. From start to finish, a good giant metallic top might need four to six weeks to complete.

The most favourite pastime game among Kelantanese.

Historical Attractions

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 19:34:00 +0000

Kelantan is rich with its historical values from the past. Before the second world war until now, there are various historical places which are worth to be visited because most of them are related with Malaysia's history. For example, Kelantan is the first location picked by the Japanese troops when they invaded Malaya. Up until now, the structures of the invasion still can be seen here. Here are some of the famous historical attractions in Kelantan.

Bank Kerapu
The location is inside Kota Bahru and it was built by the Mercantile Bank during the year 1912. The Bank Kerapu was the first stone edifice in Kelantan and it was built on a piece of land that was once belonged to a famous local chieftain known as Nik Yusoff Bin Nil Abdul Majid. During the period of Japanese occupation, Bank Kerapu who used to be a bank was being used by the Japanese armies as their secret station. Shortly after the war when British returned with their forces, the Bank Kerapu continued to serve as a bank until the year 1992 when the Kelantan State Museum Corporation turned Bank Kerapu into a war memorial. Today, there are more than 1000 exhibits which are related to the war where some of there exhibits include photos, articles and many war related artifacts. One of the most popular exhibits here in the Bank Kerapu is a bicycle that was once used by the Japanese armies during the invasion.

Some of the war artifacts from second world war that can be found at Bank Kerapu.

Guillemard Railway Bridge
It is classic and is said to be the longest railway bridge in Malaysia. Guillemard Railway Bridge had recorded various of tragic tragedy during world war II. During the year 1920, the construction for the Guillemard Railway Bridge was initiated. After 4 years, this railway bridge which was named after the British Governor and High Commissioner for the Straits Settlement at that time was completed. However, unfortunately during the invasion of the Japanese armies, the Guillemard Railway Bridge was destroyed by the British Armed Forces in order to cripple the advancement of the Japanese forces. After the war on the year 1948, the Guillemard Railway Bridge was once again reconstructed and nowadays, this Guillemard Railway Bridge makes up part of the “jungle railway” and is mainly used by trains only.

The preview from KTM Intercity while crossing Guillemard Bridge.

Islamic Museum
The Islamic Museum is indeed an important historical architecture as the history of Islam in the Kelantan state can be traced back at this museum. During the early days, this two-storey traditional wooden house was once the first school of Islamic studies in Kelantan. Nowadays, the main purpose of this historical architecture is to serve as an Islamic museum displaying various Islamic fine arts, crafts and as well as various photographs of the belongings of Prophet Muhammad.

One of the main attraction of this structure is the uniqueness in design.

Muhammadi Mosque
Since long time ago, Kelantan was already known for its Islamic influence among its society. The Muhammadi Mosque is located along the Jalan Sultanah Zainab in Kota Bahru. In the year 1922, HRH Sultan Ismail Ibni Sultan Muhammad IV started the reconstruction of this wooden mosque to the stone mosque we see today. All this while, the primary function of the Muhammadi Mosque was to spread the teachings and knowledge of Islam to all the believers in the region. Because of this reason, the Muhammadi Mosque became famous as a centre disseminating Islamic teachings and therefore, gained the title Serambi Mekah where in English literal means the Corridor of Mecca.

The preview of Muhammadi Mosque together with the voice of azan from Ustaz Marzuki.

Istana Jahar

Located at the center of Kota Bharu city, it is one of the most visited places for the uniqueness of architectural design. The Istana Jahar or the Jahar Palace was built in the year 1887 where it was a generous gift from Sultan Mahmud II to his grandson, Long Kundur. The architectural design of this palace clearly shows the excellent wood craftsmanship of the Kelantanese. In addition to that, the entire interior of this palace is very well decorated with carvings and various arts. Nowadays, the Istana Jahar serves as a museum known as the Museum of Royal Traditions and Customs where extensive collections of the state’s historical documentation, exotic artifacts, photographs and many other different exhibits are all displayed here.

The architectural design of this palace clearly shows the excellent wood craftsmanship of the Kelantanese.

Kelantan State Museum

Until the year 1990, before the conversion into the Kelantan State Museum, this building was once used as the premises of the Land Office during the colonial periods. Today, the Kelantan State Museum is the center of exhibition where a range of historical artifacts related to the state’s arts, crafts and musical traditions were displayed. In addition to these wonderful historical artifacts, the Kelantan State Museum also houses various artifacts which were excavated from local archeological sites such as the Nenggiri River.

The preview of Kelantan State Museum.

Istana Balai Besar

Same like Istana Jahar, the Istana Balai Besar is no doubt a historical architecture which was a work of grandeur. The Istana Balai Besar or also known as the Palace with Great Hall was in fact built in the year 1840 based on the orders of Sultan Mohamed II. Following the construction of this new palace, the older palace which was located along the Kelantan River was replaced. Shortly after the construction of the palace, the town where this palace is located was then renamed as Kota Bharu and later on, it is all history where Kota Bharu became the state capital of Kelantan. Even until today, the Istana Balai Besar still stands tall and moreover, it is surrounded by a fort which covers an area more than 1600 square meters. Nowadays, the main purpose of this palace is to house various official state functions and as well as royal events. Unfortunately, the Istana Balai Besar is restricted to most visitors.

The preview of the Istana Balai Besar which is surrounded by a fort which covers an area more than 1600 square meters.

Popular Shopping Locations

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 20:30:00 +0000

List of shopping locations at Kelantan.

For those who love to shopping, Kelantan is one of the best place to be visited. It is a shopping heaven and can provide almost everything that you need but the best attraction surely are the various of quality traditional handicrafts. Shops offer a variety of local handicrafts and Thai goods that are brought in from across the borders. The state is noted for its cottage industries such as batik-printing, silverware, wood-carving and songket weaving. In the shops of Central Market, richly coloured silks are displayed alongside batik scarves, prints and songket textiles. Other famous shopping places in Kelantan are Bazaar Buluh Kubu, Jalan Temenggong and the Cultural Centre where you will find a variety of locally made souvenirs, knick-knacks, batik, gold and silver songket, fine silverware, woodcarvings and imported Thai goods.

Some of the traditional handicrafts that can be found at Kelantan.

While the other states are famous with their large shopping mall, the situation is quite different at Kelantan because the main tourist's attraction is not the shopping mall but the duty free zone. One of the must visit place is the border town of Rantau Panjang. It is located near the Thailand-Malaysia border just across Sungai Golok and one of the biggest duty free zone at Kelantan. The town of Rantau Panjang is a popular duty free shopping zone selling various type of goods from electronic goods, toys, cigarettes, clothes, cosmetics, perfume, chocolate, watches and general goods. The prices offered is much lower than any other places. In addition, the prices stated are still not fixed because customers can make their offer. For those who are really good in negotiating, Rantau Panjang is surely a right place for you. Pengkalan Kubur is another border town with a tax free zone that attracts bargain hunters from both sides of the border after the cheap prices for electrical items, kitchenware, glassware, accessories, clothes & shoes. The main attraction here are kitchenware and glassware. Most of them ware imported and of course, the quality is guaranteed.

Popular Recreation Places

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 18:50:00 +0000

Kelantan is popular with many interesting places to be visited and most of them are recreation places. Located in the north-eastern corner of the peninsula, its main attraction is surely the beaches and island. There are many peaceful and beautiful beaches in Kelantan and some of them are:

Pantai Bisikan Bayu

Pantai Bisikan Bayu located near semerak, in the district of pasir puteh, 50 km away from kota bahru, is famous for its tall casuarinas offering cool shades for picnickers. Its name means 'beach of the whispering breeze'.

Pantai Cahaya Bulan

This lovely stretch of shimmering sand is perhaps Kelantan's most famous beach. Its very name conjures up images of romance, of lovers strolling hand in hand. Fringed by swaying casuarinas and coconut palms, it is the perfect gateway for the world-weary. It is 10 km north of Kota Bharu and is accessible by taking SKMK Bus No.10 which departs from the Central Market every 20 to 25 minutes.

Pantai Dasar Sabak

Pantai Dasar Sabak is the beach where the japanese landed in december of 1941, before making their way down south towards singapore. The local Fishing Village, a rustic malay kampung, is worth a visit.

Pantai Irama

Pantai Irama or the 'beach of melody' is located 25km south of kota bahru in the district of bachok. It is reputed to be the most beautiful beach along the entire east coast and is popular with picnickers and campers.

Pantai Seri Tujuh

Another lovely beach 7 km north of kota bahru is the venue of the annual malaysian international kite festival. It is situated close to the Kelantan-thailand border. Visitors will be enthralled by the scenic coastline fringing the south-china sea en-route to Pantai Seri Tujuh.

In addition, Kelantan's emerald forest boast of a number of picturesque waterfalls that provide ideal spots for picnicking and relaxation. Most of these waterfalls are located in the district of pasir puteh about 35km from Kota Bharu.

Jeram Pasu

Located at kampung padang pak amat nd accessible by car, is far the most popular. A dip in its crystal clear icy-waters will sooth even the most weary traveler.

Jeram Linang

Situated at pasir puteh far south of kota bharu. it is a 12 metre high waterfalls with icy cool waters at its base pool. The area and its scenic surroundings have attracted many visitors and it is a favourite place for the locals.

Lata Beringin
The jewel in the crown is undoubtedly Lata Beringin which is noted for its 120m high waterfall. Located at the sungai pas kesedar scheme, it is accessible via a dirt track leading off from the kuala krai-gua musang highway, lata beringin is famous for its magnificent view and lush surroundings that make it a popular camping spot.

Gunung Stong

Gunung Stong, also known as Gunung Setong, Dabong in the district of Gua Musang, Kelantan stands at 1,433 metres high. Up at the top, there is the highest waterfall in South Asia.

Kelantan Map

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 18:48:00 +0000

Getting To Kelantan

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 18:47:00 +0000

Getting to Kelantan Darul Naim is easy and convenient. There are several ways to get there. You can either choose to get there by Air, by Rail, by Bus or you could even drive yourself there if you want to.

Getting there by Air

Malaysia Airlines (MAS) has daily flights to and from Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru.

Air Asia, Asia's first "no-frills" Airline only has daily flights to and from Kuala Lumpur.

FireFly, Malaysia's first community Airline has been granted the rights to fly to Kota Bharu from the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang from Nov 17th, 2007.

These airlines fly straight into the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport, atPengkalan Chepa, Kota Bharu.

Getting there by Bus

There are several bus operators serving the Kota Bharu route. Among them are Transnasional Ekspres, Ekspres Mutiara, Ekspres Sani, Ekspres Budaya and Ekspres Darulnaim.

My personal recommendation would be the Transnasional Ekspres. They're comfortable, reliable and punctual.

The time table for the Transnasional Ekspres is as follows:

From : Kuala Lumpur to Kota Bharu

Distance : 512 km

Duration : 8 hrs 30 mins

Frequency : Daily (Monday - Sunday)

Time : 9:00am, 9:30am, 10:00am, 10:15am, 10:30am, 9:00pm and 9:30pm.

Fare (Adult) : RM 30.80

Fare (Children): RM 15.40

Transnasional Ekspres departs from Hentian Bas Putra terminal (opposite the PWTC), KL, and arrives at the Kota Bharu Bus Station atJalan Pendek.

Transnasional Phone (Kuala Lumpur) : +603-40438984, +603-40449072

Transnasional Phone (Kota Bahru) : +609-7482807, +609-7474330

Getting there by Rail

There are 2 railway stations in Kota Bharu. The Wakaf Bharu station and the Sungai Golok station. I would personally recommend that you use the Wakaf Bharu Station. Express trains depart daily from various destination throughout Kelantan and major towns in the Peninsular, right up to Singapore.

Getting there by Road

If you're the type who likes adventures and explorations, you can choose to drive yourself to Kelantan. There are several routes you can take to get to Kelantan Darul Naim if you're coming from Kuala Lumpur.

First, you can choose to drive eastward along the Karak Highway toKuantan in the state of Pahang, passing through the Temerloh and Maranexits. This will take about 3 hours. Then from Kuantan, head north along the coast passing through picturesque villages and scenic palm-fringed beaches overlooking the azure waters of the South China Sea. You will be passing through places likeKemaman, Kerteh, Dungun, Marang and Kuala Terengganu before you get to Kota Bharu. This will take you roughly 4 hours 30 minutes.

Alternatively, you could take the inland route to Kota Bharu whereby you exit the Karak Highway at Bentong and proceed northwards to Raub, Gua Musang and Kuala Krai before reaching Kota Bharu. Another option would be that you exit the Karak Highway at Temerloh and head towards Jerantut, Benta, Gua Musang and Kuala Krai before finally reaching Kota Bharu.

Major City Distance

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 18:32:00 +0000