Travel

When Mansur Shah, a descendent of the Sultan of Melaka, founded the state of Pahang in 1458, Pekan was chosen as his residence. It has since remained the Royal town of the state. There are numerous well-built white marble mosques, as well as several palaces in the town. The state museum, Museum Sultan Abu Bakar, is housed in a building constructed by the British for the local resident. It has a wide variety of exhibits and much of the museum is dedicated to the Pahang royal family. Sungai Pahang is the longest river in Malaysia and was the last east coast river to be bridged. Pekan is also an ideal place to relax and to be away from the city.

Kuantan

Any visit to the state of Pahang must include the state capital Kuantan. Kuantan is not a big city and you will find it remarkably personable and down-to-earth. It has been the capital of Pahang since 1955. It is a well-organized, bustling city and a major stopover point when traveling north, south, or across the peninsula. The town reveals its charms through its street life and attractions around its town center. Some of the finest beaches in the state are located in Kuantan. It also offers a variety of local food fare and traditional sports. Visitors will be able to see a mix of old and new buildings along with colonial style buildings, which are reminders of colonial administration in the past.

The most prominent sight in the capital is the State Mosque with its distinct dome and minarets. Or take a stroll along the riverbank and watch the various activities on the wide Sungai Kuantan. At the jetty, a ferry can take you across the river to a small village, Kampung Tanjung Lumpur. Placed among the many modern buildings around town, the colonial-style Courthouse & Handicraft Centre definitely adds some charm and difference to the area. Kuantan and its vicinity produces some really good handicrafts; there is even a batik factory on the outskirts of the town, and shops along Jalan Besar do sell local trinkets and handicraft. Do try their keropok (fish crackers), which is the state's famed delicacy.

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