Kuala Terengganu Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Kuala Terengganu is a modern Malaysian city with strong Malay influences. This beautiful city is located in the north east of Peninsular Malaysia. As the capital of the state of Terengganu, it has the title Waterfront Heritage City. Known as KT for short, Kuala Terengganu the city is also a royal capital. The city has beautiful architecture, vibrant night markets, a bustling Chinatown area as well as plenty of beautiful areas to explore. Find out more in this Kuala Terengganu destination guide.

What is Kuala Terengganu Malaysia famous for?

Kuala Terengganu is known for its Chinatown, Kampung Cina, which is one of the earliest Chinese settlements in Southeast Asia. It is a vibrant part of Kuala Terengganu with a great selection of restaurants selling famous local delicacies such as keropok lekor. Kuala Terengganu is also famous for its beautiful mosques such as the Crystal Mosque. A more recent landmark in Kuala Terengganu is the distinctive Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge, which is the first drawbridge built in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Apart from these attractions, Kuala Terengganu is known for being the administrative, economic and royal capital of the Malaysian state of Terengganu.

Why you should visit Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

Kuala Terengganu is a great stop-over on the way to Redang Island. This beautiful city is located in the north east of Peninsular Malaysia on the South China Sea. It has undergone development in recent years and has some new landmarks such as the distinctive Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge. Key features of the city include the Chinatown area, a number of vibrant night markets, modern shopping centres, long stretches of beach as well as a number of scenic parks. The city has a great food scene, with a good selection of cafes, restaurants, food markets and also street food to choose from.

Kuala Terengganu Destination Guide: Know before you go

Basic info about Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

• City name in other scripts – كوالا ترڠڬانو (Jawi), 瓜拉登嘉楼 (simplified Chinese), 瓜拉登嘉樓 (traditional Chinese), Guālā-dēngjiālóu (Hanyu Pinyin), கோலா திராங்கானு (Tamil), Kole Tranung (Terengganu Malay)
• Language – Malay. Terengganu Malay is a dialect of Malay spoken in Kuala Terengganu. There are 10 dialects of Malay used throughout thought the country, with Standard Malay being the unifying language. English is becoming more widely spoken in the country. However not everyone you meet will be able to speak English. Mandarin Chinese, Malaysian Chinese, Tamil, other Indian languages as well as Creole are spoken by the various ethnic groups that live in Malaysia.
• Currency – Malaysian ringgit (MYR). This has been the official currency of Malaysia since 1967. Currency exchanges can be found in most cities and ATMs are also available widely throughout the country.
• Population – 237,000 (2017)
• Area – 605 km² (234 sq mi)
• District – Kuala Terengganu
• State – Terengganu
• Emergency number – 999
• Police number – 999

Utilities in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

• Electricity – Malaysia uses Type G power plugs. The country operates on a 240v supply voltage at 50Hz. Power outages are reasonably common in Malaysia.
• Water – the tap water in Malaysia is not generally safe to drink. Tap water is usually treated, however pipes may be old. Therefore most locals boil their water or use a water filter just to be safe.
• Toilets – sit-down flushing toilets as well as Asian style squat toilets are common in Malaysia. Toilets generally come equipped with a spray hose (sometimes referred to as a Muslim shower). The spray hose is like a European bidet and is used for cleaning personal areas as an alternative to toilet paper. All of the accommodation we stayed in throughout the country was equipped with the western style sit-down flushing toilets with spray hoses. Toilet paper is also usually provided. Don’t flush your toilet paper – use the bins provided. The use of bathroom slippers is customary and is provided in accommodation and sometimes also in public bathrooms. Public bathrooms often offer both sit-down and squat style toilets. Public toilets are common in Malaysia. The charge is usually around 30-50 sens.
• Telephone country code: +60

Where is Kuala Terengganu Malaysia?

Kuala Terengganu is in the Kuala Terengganu district on the coast of the state of Terengganu Malaysia. It is located on the South China Sea and is also near the mouth of Terengganu River. The city is towards the northern end of the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia.

The closest towns to Kuala Terengganu are Marang as well as Kuala Berang. Kuala Terengganu is 30 minutes by bus from Marang and 45 minutes by car from Kuala Berang.

How to get to Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

Kuala Terengganu destination guide: Arriving by land

Kuala Terengganu Malaysia intercity land transport

The main transport options for travelling overland to Kuala Terengganu Malaysia are:

• Private vehicle
• Private transport operator
• Bus
• Bike

Driving to Kuala Terengganu from within Malaysia

If you are driving to Kuala Terengganu from within Malaysia, here are the travel times and distances:

• Jerteh, Terengganu – 1 hour 35 minutes (104km, 65miles) without tolls
• Kuala Besut, Terengganu – 1 hour 58 minutes (107km, 66miles) without tolls
• Kuantan, Pahang – 2 hours 38 minutes (214km, 133miles) with tolls or 2 hours 56 minutes
• Kota Bharu, Kelantan – 2 hours 46 minutes (160km, 99miles) without tolls or (205km, 127miles) without tolls
• Kuala Lumpur – 4 hours 35 minutes (449km, 279miles) with tolls or 7 hours 18 minutes (458km, 285miles) without tolls
• Mersing, Johor – 5 hours 9 minutes (416km, 258miles) with tolls or 5 hours 41 minutes (396km, 246miles) without tolls
• Malacca, Malacca – 6 hours 2 minutes (484km, 301miles) with tolls or 6 hours 50 minutes (468km, 291miles) without tolls
• Johor Bahru, Johor – 6 hours 38 minutes (560km, 348miles) with tolls or 7 hours 41 minutes (523km, 325miles) without tolls
• George Town, Penang – 6 hours 55 minutes (444km, 276miles) with tolls or 7 hours 39 minutes (475km, 295miles) without tolls

Intercity trains to Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

Kuala Terengganu does not have a train station. The closest train station is at Tanah Merah, which is 2.5 hours drive away. Tanah Merah is a train station on Malaysia’s jungle railway. This Malaysian railway line runs along the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia and connects to the west coast line at Gemas. Train travel in Malaysia is a cheap and scenic way to see the country.

Malaysia train travel vlog

We spent about a week travelling along the jungle railway in Malaysia, starting at Kota Bharu and stopping along the way at Kuala Krai, Dabong, Gua Musang and Kuala Lipis. Travelling by train in Malaysia was a very memorable journey and we never expected to affect us so much. Watch the Malaysia train travel video below to find out all about our Malaysia jungle train experience.

Intercity buses to Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

A common way to get around Malaysia is by using intercity buses. These are budget friendly and the network is also extensive. Intercity bus companies in Malaysia include KKKL Express as well as S&S International. Popular bus destinations from Kuala Terengganu include:

• Kuala Besut Malaysia – travel time 2 hours. Tickets cost 10.80 ringgit one way.
• Kuantan Malaysia – travel time 2 hours 30 minutes. Tickets start from 17 ringgit one way.
• Kota Bharu Malaysia – travel time 3 hours 40 minutes. Tickets start from 15 ringgit one way.
• Kuala Lumpur Malaysia – travel time 6 hours 30 minutes. Tickets start from 34 ringgit one way.
• Penang Malaysia – travel time 8 hours 30 minutes. Tickets start from 49 ringgit one way.
• Johor Bahru Malaysia – travel time 9 hours. Tickets start from 38 ringgit one way.
• Malacca Malaysia – travel time 7 hours 30 minutes. Tickets start from 45 ringgit one way.

Kuala Terengganu destination guide: Arriving by air

The closest airport to Kuala Terengganu is Sultan Mahmud Airport (Airport code TGG). This airport is 7km (5 miles) away.

Other nearby airports include:

• Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (Airport code KBR). This airport is 132km (82 miles) away.
• Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport (Airport code KUA). This airport is 173km (108 miles) away.
• Narathiwat Airport (Airport code NAW). This airport is 204km (127 miles) away.

The national airline of Malaysia is Malaysia Airlines.

Kuala Terengganu destination guide: Arriving by boat

There are ferries from Kuala Terengganu to the nearby Redang Island. These go from either Shahbandar jetty in Kuala Terengganu or Merang jetty which is 40 minutes drive from Kuala Terengganu. Most resorts on Redang Island have their own ferry transfer service that is included in the accommodation package. The only public ferry departs from Shahbandar jetty and costs 50 ringgit for adults one way. The journey time from Kuala Terengganu to Redang Island is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.

Another island close to Terengganu that is accessible by ferry is Kapas Island. Ferries to Kapas Island go from Merang Jetty.

Kuala Terengganu destination guide: How to get around Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

Walking in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

By far the easiest and also the cheapest way to get around Kuala Terengganu is to walk. Furthermore, most of the main attractions in the city are within easy walking distance.

Local buses in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

Local buses service Kuala Terengganu. There are 3 bus lines in the city. Kuala Terangganu’s public town buses have a distinctive vintage design that resembles a tram. The outside of the buses is fitted with wooden panelling. These air-conditioned buses run from Dataran Shahbandar to:

• Chendering – bus route C01, one-way bus fare 1 ringgit (as at 2022).
• Losong – bus route C02, one-way bus fare 1 ringgit (as at 2022).
• Gong Badak – bus route C03, one-way bus fare 2 ringgit (as at 2022).

There are also local buses that go to Merang jetty.

Trams in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

Kuala Terengganu does not have a tram system. However there are local buses that resemble trams.

Local trains in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

Kuala Terengganu does not have a local train line.

Metro trains (subway or underground) in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

Kuala Terengganu does not have an underground train line.

Vehicle hire in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

A wide variety of vehicles can be rented in Malaysia. This includes:

• Electric scooters
• Bicycles
• Motorcycles
• Cars
• SUVs
• Boats

In Malaysia they drive on the left side of the road.

Taxis in Malaysia

Taxis are common in Malaysia. Fares are regulated and are also usually metered. However taxi drivers in Malaysia do not have the best reputation, which is why alternative services like Grab are very popular.

In general your fare will include the following costs:

• The pickup fee or minimum fee – this is charged as soon as you get into the vehicle.
• Airport surcharge – this is an additional fixed fee for travelling to an airport.
• Price per kilometre – the rate is double between midnight and 6am.
• Price per hour – this is a price that gets charged when the taxi is stuck in heavy traffic.
• Surcharge for more than 2 adult passengers – this is an additional fixed fee.
• Surcharge for using the luggage compartment – this is an additional fixed fee.
• Surcharge for booking by phone – this is an additional fixed fee.
• Road toll charges

Check that the meter gets switched on at the start of your journey at the right rate. We also recommend bringing enough change in cash as drivers generally only accept cash and may not have change.

Alternatively, if booking in advance the fare may be a fixed price that is agreed on before the trip. Some taxis also operate on a pre-paid coupon system where the coupon is purchased from a counter at the airport.

It is not necessary or expected to tip taxi drivers in Malaysia.

Ride-share services in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

Grab is the main app based ride-hailing service in Malaysia. Other ride-share services in Malaysia include MyCar, MULA, DACSEE, EzCar, inDriver as well as the women only service Riding Pink. Uber no longers operates in Malaysia after Grab acquired all of its Southeast Asia assets. Lyft services only Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia via its Grab partnership.

Kuala Terengganu destination guide: Is Kuala Terengganu Malaysia worth visiting?

Kuala Terengganu is definitely worth visiting. It has a lot of attractions that you can enjoy. Some of the top things to do in Kuala Terengganu include going up to the skybridge of Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge for unrivalled views across the city, exploring the famous Chinatown Terengganu (Kampung China), visiting the vibrant local night markets as well as visiting Taman Tamadun Islam to learn about Muslim culture. Furthermore, Kuala Terengganu is a gateway to the stunning Redang Island, which is one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

Kuala Terengganu destination guide: How long to spend in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

Kuala Terengganu is a rapidly developing city with strong traditional Malay influences. The city has a beautiful waterfront area and a great food scene. Moreover, it has a relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals. The city also boasts some beautiful beaches, a vibrant Chinatown area and a number of modern air-conditioned shopping centres. Located in the middle of the state of Terengganu, it is only a 2 hour drive away from other towns within the state. As the gateway to a number of beautiful islands such as Redang Island, it is perfect for a short stop over on your way to an island holiday. However if you have more time to spare, this is a great value destination that could easily keep you entertained for a few days. We spent 6 nights in Kuala Terengganu and particularly enjoyed visiting the night markets, going to the beach and exploring the Chinatown area.

Kuala Terengganu destination guide: What to do in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

Kuala Terengganu is a scenic Malaysian city with a number of interesting activities on offer. It has a range of great free activities as well as paid activities.

Kuala Terengganu destination guide: Free things to do in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

There are enough free activities in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia to keep you entertained for a weekend:

• Kampung Cina (Chinatown)
• Pulau Warisan Kuala Terengganu
• Taman Panorama and Menara Bukit Panorama
• Crystal Mosque
• KTCC Mall
• Mydin Mall
• Batu Buruk Beach
• Paya Bunga Square
• Pandak Beach
• Maziah Palace
• Taman Monumen
• Waterfront
• Payang Memory Lane
• Ho Ann Kiong Temple
• Stadium Tertutup Gong Badak
• Desa Ukiran Kayu Istana Tengku Long
• Masjid Sultan Zainal Abiddin (Masjid Putih)
• Pasar Payang
• Turtle Sculpture
• Penarik Beach

Kuala Terengganu destination guide: Paid activities in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

A number of attractions in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia charge an entry fee:

• Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge – entry fee is 10 ringgit for adults (as at 2022).
• Muzium Negeri Terengganu – entry fee is 5 ringgit for adults (as at 2022).
• Taman Tamadun Islam – entry fee is 20 ringgit for adults (as at 2022).
• Pusat Sains & Kreativiti Terengganu – entry fee is 10 ringgit fr adults (as at 2022).

Weather in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

The climate for Kuala Terengganu is classified as tropical, with relatively uniform hot temperatures and also high humidity throughout the year. The hottest month is May with an average temperature range of 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) and coldest month December with an average temperature between 24°C to 29°C (76°F to 84°F). There are two monsoon seasons in Malaysia, November to early March, which is typically the most rainy, and June to September. Kuala Terengganu is not impacted by the June to September monsoon. The period of March through to June between the two monsoons is the hottest and also the most uncomfortable weather of the year.

Best time to visit Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

The best time of year to visit Kuala Terengganu is between February and April. During these months the weather is warm but not too hot and there is the least amount of rain. However if you want to combine a trip to Kuala Terengganu with visiting Redang Island, we’d suggest visiting between June to September when the weather is perfect for enjoying Redang Island. Additionally, keep in mind that Kuala Terengganu is generally busier on weekends and public holidays which means accommodation costs are often higher and availability may be limited during these times.

Internet and mobile phones in Malaysia

Major internet and phone companies in Malaysia – Celcom, Digi, Hotlink (Maxis), U Mobile, UniFi Mobile, Tune Talk, Yes, XOX Mobile / ONEXOX, redONE, Yoodo, Telekom Malaysia and Time dotCom.

5G has been in Malaysia since December 2021. 2G will not be be switched off in Malaysia. 3G is was switched off in March 2022.

Malaysia is ranked 61^st fastest in the world for mobile internet speeds and 38^th fastest for fixed broadband. For Fixed Broadband the average download speed is 90mbps and upload is 51mbps (as at October 2022).

Cell phone SIM cards can be bought in a numbers of places throughout Malaysia. These include phone stores, in shopping malls, at bus stations as well as at airports. Some form of ID, such as a passport, is required in order to purchase a SIM card in Malaysia.

How much to budget for Kuala Terengganu Malaysia?

Is Kuala Terengganu Malaysia expensive?

Kuala Terengganu is a budget-friendly Malaysian city that offers great value for money. The cost of living in Malaysia is low compared to other countries, and Kuala Terengganu is one of the top 9% least expensive cities in the world according to livingcost.org. With affordable local markets, plenty of cheap or free activities, and a great range of affordable and high-quality accommodation, Kuala Terengganu is the perfect destination for those seeking a budget-friendly vacation.

Kuala Terengganu destination guide: Daily spend for a couple travelling in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

As a rough guide, we recommend the following budgets for a couple:

• Low-budget daily spend – 150 ringgit per day for a couple will get you hostel accommodation, meals from bakeries and markets, local transport and free or cheap activities such as visiting shopping centres and markets
• Mid-range daily spend – 300 ringgit per day for a couple will get you mid-range accommodation, local transport, restaurant meals and also a few paid activities
• Luxury spend – 4000 ringgit per day for a couple will get you a premium experience in Malaysia, staying at luxury resorts, travelling by private transport, doing a range of paid activities as well as eating at high end restaurants

Kuala Terengganu destination guide: Accommodation in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

There is a good range of accommodation to suit most budgets in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia. Airbnb operates in Malaysia, and there are a number of Airbnb properties in Kuala Terengganu. Wifi is not always provided for Airbnb properties in Malaysia, so we recommend checking if it is included in the listing. One thing to keep in mind with hotels in Malaysia is that smoking in hotel rooms is often permitted.

Where to stay in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

We recommend the following accommodation in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia:

• Best hostel in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia – Leisure Lodge is provides excellent budget accommodation in Kuala Terengganu. Their activities are excellent and there’s even a pool table and a Playstation. This hostel is comfortable, clean, safe and secure. Additionally, it is conveniently located a short walk from the main bus terminal.
• Best budget-friendly hotel in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia – KT Chinatown Lodge provides great value accommodation in the heart of Chinatown. The rooms are spacious, clean and well appointed. The staff are very friendly and hospitable. We stayed here twice and thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
• Best mid-range hotel in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia – Uptown Eco Hotel is one of the best hotels in Kuala Terengganu. This hotel is clean and spacious with nice décor. It is centrally located near restaurants and attractions such as Pasar Payang shopping mall. Furthermore the staff are friendly and polite.

How much is accommodation in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia?

For short-term accommodation, a general price per night is as follows:

• Budget accommodation – 37-55 ringgit for a bed in a dorm
• Mid-range accommodation – 65-160 ringgit for a private room
• Luxury accommodation – 190-210 ringgit a night for a luxury hotel
• Rental property – 160-750 ringgit a night for a fully furnished 3-4 bedroom home

Tourist tax on accommodation in Malaysia

From 1 January 2023 there is a tourist tax of 10 ringgit per accommodation per night in Malaysia. This tax is collected by the property. Permanent residents and Malaysian nationals are exempt from the tax. Furthermore the tourist tax does not apply to homestays and kampung stays registered with the Ministry of Tourism.

Kuala Terengganu destination guide: Food in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

How much does food cost in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia?

Our price guide for your food budget in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia is as follows (prices as at 2022):

• Restaurant meal – 30-60 ringgit for a main dish
• Night market or hawker market food – 5-15 ringgit for a dish
• Ais kachang – 4-6 ringgit
• Coffee – 1.50-2.50 ringgit

Regional dishes in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

• Laksa Terengganu
• Laksam
• Nasi dagang
• Nasi kunyit
• Nasi berlauk
• Nasi kerabu
• Keropok lekor
• Sata
• Pulut lepa
• Otak-otak
• Bubu lambut
• Ketupak sotong
• Ikan celup tepung

Cheap Eats in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

• Bakeries are a great place to get cheap and delicious food.
• Hawker centres in Malaysia are ubiquitous and have excellent budget friendly food. The variety of stalls available means that you have a good range of options to choose from.
• Night markets in Malaysia are another of our go to places for affordable and tasty food. There’s also usually stalls selling items like clothes, toys and shoes in addition to the food stalls. There are night markets at the Waterfront.
• Street food is also a very common cheap eat option in Malaysia. You can often find street food around transport hubs as well as scattered in various places around the city. Our favourite street food in Kuala Terengganu was Laksa Terengganu from Manfaat Trading.

Kuala Terengganu food vlogs

Kuala Terengganu food tour vlog

Join us on our quest to find the most authentic Malaysian food in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia! We’ll take you through the bustling Chinatown Terengganu where we taste must try Malaysian dishes like Laksa Terengganu, Laksam, Rojak and Nasi dagang. In the Malaysia food vlog below we also get to try some of the best street food in Malaysia like Keropok and Pandan chicken. The Malaysia east coast surprised us with the range of delicious Malaysian dishes on offer as well as mouth watering vegan food and international cuisine! Our Terengganu food tour will leave you with a taste of Malaysia that you won’t forget. So come along with us and experience the best of Malaysia travel and Malaysian food in this exciting Terengganu vlog!

Kuala Terengganu night market tour vlog

How much food can you get at a Malaysia night market for only $5? We put this to the test in our $5 Street food challenge! Malaysian night markets are one of the best things about living in Malaysia and you can get your fill of Malaysian food for cheap! In the Malaysia food vlog below we’re in the city of Kuala Terengganu on the Malaysia east coast. We recorded this Terengganu vlog at the Pasar malam (Night market) at Pulau Warisan Kuala Terengganu Malaysia. Our East coast Malaysia Street food tour includes plenty of delicious Hawker street food such as Popiah, Nasi lemak, specific Terengganu food like keropok lekor as well as plenty of other Malaysia food. This Night market challenge Malaysia vlog is perfect for anyone interested in Malaysia travel as well as those that want to see a Malaysia night market tour.

Kuala Terengganu Malaysia culture

Weekends in Terengganu Malaysia

Which days are weekdays and weekend days vary in Malaysia depending on the state you’re in. In the state of Terengganu weekdays are Sunday to Thursday and weekends are Friday and Saturday. Keep this in mind as weekends can affect prices and availability (particularly for accommodation). Additionally weekends may impact opening hours as well as how crowded attractions are.

Terengganu public holidays

Malaysia has one of the highest number of public holidays in the world. In total, there are between 18 and 20 public holidays observed in each state. This includes national holidays as well as state based holidays. Public holidays for the state of Terengganu are as follows:

• Chinese New Year’s Day – 1^st day of 1^st lunar month, in January or February
• Chinese New Year Holiday – 2^nd day of 1^st lunar month, in January or February
• Isra and Miraj – 27 Rejab (Islamic calendar)
• Sultan of Terengganu’s Coronation Day – 4 March
• Nuzul Al-Quran Day – 17^th day of Ramadan
• Sultan of Terengganu’s Birthday – 26 April
• Labour Day – 1 May
• Wesak Day (Buddha’s birthday) – May or June, date varies
• Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Hari Raya Puasa – the last day of Ramadan, date varies
• Hari Raya Aidilfitri Holiday or Hari Raya Puasa Holiday – day after the last day of Ramadan, date varies
• Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s Birthday (King’s Birthday) – 1^st Monday in June
• Arafah Day – 9 Zulhijjah (Islamic calendar)
• Hari Raya Qurban (Aidiladha) (Feast of the Sacrifice) – date varies
• Awal Muharram (Islamic New Year) – date varies
• Merdeka Day (National Day, Independence Day) – 31 August
• Malaysia Day – 16 September
• Maulidur Rasul (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) – 12^th day of the 3^rd month of the Islamic calendar
• Deepavali – date varies, October or November
• Christmas Day – 25 December

National symbols of Malaysia

• Malaysia flag – 14 alternating red and white stripes as well as a blue canton with a yellow crescent and 14 pointed star. The Malaysian flag is called the Stripes of Glory.
• Malaysia coat of arms – two tigers supporting a shield with a yellow crescent and a 14 pointed star on top and a yellow banner with words that translate to “Unity is strength” written in both romanised Malay and Jawi at the bottom.
• National flower – hibiscus
• National bird – rhinoceros hornbill
• Malaysia national animal – the Malayan tiger

Malaysia pastimes

• National dish – nasi lemak
• Popular drinks – teh tarik, Ipoh white coffee, milo ais, sirup bandang
• National sport – sepak takraw
• Religion – 64% Islam, 19% Buddhist, 9% Christian, 6% Hindu (as at 2020)

Famous people from Kuala Terengganu Malaysia

• Famous people born in Kuala Terengganu Malaysia – singer Hazman Al-Idrus, civil servant Mohammad Zuki Ali, actress Nora Danish, actress Emma Maembong.
• Sports stars from Kuala Terengganu Malaysia – cyclist Anuar Manan, cyclist Aliaa Mansor, footballer Muhammad Adam Danish Abdullah.

Is Kuala Terengganu Malaysia Safe?

Malaysia travel guide: Safety in Malaysia

We have spent around 4 months travelling extensively through Malaysia over two separate trips. In our experience the country is extremely safe. Malaysia ranks 18^th safest country on the Global Peace Index (as at 2022). As with any country, there are good areas and bad areas. Watch out for pickpockets and bag snatching particularly at crowded tourist attractions. In particular, when eating out don’t leave your bag, phone or wallet on the table or next to you where someone can quickly grab it and run away. Instead keep your belongings physically attached to you at all times. Make sure no-one is watching whenever you are entering pin codes and never lose sight of your credit card when making a purchase.

General safety considerations in Malaysia

Other general safety considerations for travel in Malaysia:

• Drinking water – tap water in Malaysia is not generally safe to drink. Tap water is usually treated, but pipes may be old. Therefore most locals boil their water or use a water filter.
• Mosquitoes – mosquito borne illnesses are a significant risk in Malaysia, particularly dengue, Zika and chikungunya. Malaysia is in the pre-elimination phase of malaria. While malaria is a greater risk in Malaysian Borneo, there have also been cases on the Malaysian peninsula. Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
• Altitude sickness – Malaysia has areas of high altitude and therefore altitude sickness risk. If you visit high altitude areas in Malaysia, allow sufficient time to acclimatise. If you experience signs of altitude sickness, including headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite or shortness of breath, get help immediately.
• Road safety – Road accidents are a significant risk in Malaysia. While road conditions in Malaysia are generally very good, traffic is often very heavy. Furthermore drivers in Malaysia tend to speed up rather than slowing down for amber lights. We also found that roads in Malaysia are not typically built with pedestrians in mind, and footpaths often stop unexpectedly in busy areas.
• Water safety – take care when swimming as currents and waves may be stronger than you expect.
• Earthquakes – Malaysia experiences both regional and local earthquake activity. In an earthquake, stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls and anything that could fall. If inside, get under a table, desk or solid furniture and hang onto it. Cover your head and torso to protect from falling objects. If outside, stay outside and go to an open area away from buildings.
• Sun safety – Exposure to the sun can have adverse short-term and long-term effects on the skin, eyes and immune system. Sun protection such as sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses is very important to ensure you don’t get burnt.
• Dogs – rabies from rabid dog bites is a risk in Malaysia. For more on dog safety while travelling, check out this video.

As with any destination, take all of your normal safety precautions.

Kuala Terengganu Malaysia travel vlog

Don’t forget to visit the Malaysia east coast on your next trip to Malaysia! Often overlooked for more popular destinations like Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi, this undiscovered Malaysian spot has a lot to offer! In the Malaysia travel vlog below we discover the hidden gems of Terengganu Malaysia.

Throughout this Terengganu vlog we explore the Coastlines, Culture and Cuisine of Malaysia’s best kept secret! Uncover amazing Terengganu food such as Keropok with a Malaysia night market tour at the Pulau Warisan Malaysian night markets. Explore the beautiful Batu Buruk Beach (also known as Pantai Batu Buruk). Visit stunning Terengganu landmarks such as Chinatown Terengganu, the Crystal Mosque Malaysia and Terengganu drawbridge. Do some retail therapy at the Malaysian shopping center KTCC Mall. And don’t forget to eat your fill of Malaysian food at Terengganu Chinatown! Kuala Terengganu is also the gateway to the amazing Redang Island! For great Malaysia travel tips and much more, watch this Terengganu travel vlog.

Malaysia Blogs

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