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Kelantan Background
Reputed to be the cradle of Malay culture, Kelantan offers a delightful
profusion of colourful traditions, charm and scenic beauty to the
visitors. Located in the north-eastern corner of the Penisula, Kelantan
is an agrarian state with lush padi fields, rustic fishing villages and
casuarinas-lined beaches. With a population of around 1.5 million,
Kelantan is primarily a Malay state although arpund 7% of the population
are of Thai, Indian and Chinese ancestry.
The Kelantanese have carefully preserved their customs, traditions
and craft skills over time. One might be pleasantly surprised to see
adults, indulging in pastimes tops. Renowned for their warmth and
hospitality, the Kelantanese display an old world charm that captivates
visitors.
History
Kelantan was known from earlier times as a seat of powerful kingdoms
which established trading links with Chinese Empire. easrly Chinese
records indicate the existence of trade links with China, which referred
to Kelantan as Ho-Lo-Tan.
The state has at various times in the past been a vassal of Siam. In
the 18th century, a Kelantanese Prince, Long Yunus, ascended to the
throne and the present-day royal family is descended from him. Kelantan
along with the other states of the Malay Penisula formed the Federation
of Malaya, which gained its independence on 31st August 1957. |
Economy
The economy of Kelantan is based on agriculture with rice, rubber,
tobacco and fruits being main cash crops. Fishing, fish and livestock
rearing are also important economic activities. Timber production
provides a substantial revenue to the state and gold is still mined in
small quantities. A thriving cottage industry produces extremely fine
batik material and paintings, exquisite gold and silverware, intricate
wood carvings and beautiful 'kain songket' (cloth woven from gold and
silver threads). Leather working and mat weaving from pandanus leaves
are also local trades.
Tourism is growing in importance as the state has a wealth of
attraction such as homestay programmes a rich heritage of culture and
traditions, eco-tourism packages and fine powdery beaches.
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