KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020

Agro-treasures from Durians to River Lobsters Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020

KEDAH 2 Where you’ll find more than meets the mind... 4 SEKAPUR SIREH JUNJUNG Chief Minister of Kedah SEKAPUR SIREH KEDAH Kedah State Secretary State Executive Councilor Where you’ll find Champion, Tourism Productivity Nexus 12 ABOUT TOURISM PRODUCTIVITY NEXUS (TPN) more than meets the mind... WELCOME TO BANDAR BAHARU 14 Map of Bandar Baharu

BANDAR BAHARU ATTRACTIONS 12 Bank Rabbit Park Kem Kelulut Azikha (Honey Bee Camp) Batu Hampar Recreational Forest Farmstay AMS Equestrian Club

18 KEDAH CUISINE AND A CUPPA Food Trails 20 COMPANY LISTINGS 23 ACCOMMODATION ESSENTIAL INFORMATION 24 Location & Transportation Getting Around Getting to Useful Contact Numbers Tips for Visitors Essential Malay Phrases You’ll Need in Making Your Stay Nice - Local Etiquette and Advice Malaysia at a Glance 34 KEDAH CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2020 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

CONTENTS 36 EMERGENCIES 38 No place in the world has a combination of This is Kedah, the oldest existing kingdom in 39 MPC OFFICES these features: a tranquil tropical paradise . laced with idyllic and beaches framed by mystical hills and mountains, filled with Now Kedah invites the world to discover all natural and cultural wonders amidst vibrant her treasures from unique flora and fauna to cities or villages of verdant paddy fields, delicious dishes, from diverse experiences all cradled in a civilisation based on proven in local markets and museums to the history with archaeological site evidence coolest waterfalls and even crazy outdoor going back three millennia in an ancient adventures. environment of geological formations from over 500 million years! Because Kedah has it all!

2 3 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 SekapurSireh Junjung A Special Message from Kedah Menteri Besar

Welcome to Kedah Darul Aman!

Kedah, in the north of , is a magnificent state. It is indeed full of wonders, some of which are already known worldwide such as our jewel and pride, the Langkawi archipelago, while so many treasures on the Kedah mainland are only now being discovered by the world at large.

You too must discover Kedah’s pristine nature, unique culture, scrumptious cuisine and more in every corner. This Kedah Directory 2020 is just one but good way to start your Kedah adventure. Then if you need more information, just get in touch with us as per listed contacts. I assure you Kedahans are among the friendliest of Malaysians and will always be happy to help you in whatever way in your stay.

After all we have proven in our history of 2500 years as a geopolitical entity that Kedah has shared so much with the region and even the world and will proudly continue do so. This is in line with the concept and policy of shared prosperity that our Prime Minister of Malaysia, The Right Honourable Tun Dr. Mahathir Muhamad has put in place for the whole nation. You will see this in even local policies of strengthening the state’s local folk in their networking in socio-economic activities and so on, which encompasses local tourism and the environment as well for sustainability.

So, be assured that your visit to Kedah will enrich not only your personal life experiences but is also a part of the shared prosperity that we practice.

Have a memorable stay in Kedah.

DATO’ SERI UTAMA HJ. MUKHRIZ TUN MAHATHIR., DMK., SPMK., SJMK., DHMS., DSNS., SSS., JP. Pantai Cenang Chief Minister of Kedah Darul Aman

4 5 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 Sekapur Sireh 1 Foreword by the Kedah State Secretary

A warm Selamat Datang to Kedah!

I’m thrilled that you’re reading state’s Visitors’ Directory 2020, which was prepared especially for valued travellers such as yourself.

Kedah is indeed Malaysia’s most unique state, and I say that not just because I am the State Secretary but the facts speak for themselves. We have the oldest known civilisational history and archaeological site, Sungai Batu, not just in Malaysia but in all Southeast Asia. And we have a geological landscape and rock formation history of over 500 million years!

But more than our fascinating history as an ancient kingdom, Kedah has so many other special heritage features be they natural, cultural, culinary, recreational and more. Even our northern dialect of Malay is unique in the Malay Archipelago. As visitors, you will be mesmerised by our endless wonders.

But most of all it is our people, the Kedahans, who are always friendly and ever welcoming to all visitors to partake of our treasures, culture and lifestyle. In line with the spirit of shared prosperity, we want everyone to have a stake in and share the well-being of tourism; from villagers to venue or business owners and even to all visitors themselves.

Kedah’s pie is big, so to speak and there’s more than enough for everyone when enjoyed responsibly and sustainably - and that is what shared prosperity is about.

So again, on behalf of the government and people of this ancient sultanate yet modern state of Kedah - we welcome you. Do come to visit us in 2020 and even beyond.

Sincerely,

DATO’ PADUKA AMMAR BIN DATO’ SHAIKH MAHMOOD NAIM Pantai Pasir Tengkorak Langkawi DPSS., DSDK., JSD., SSS., AMK., AMN., BCK. Kedah State Secretary

6 7 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 Sekapur Sireh 2 Foreword by the State Executive Councilor

2020 will be the best year ever to visit our unique state of Kedah, as part of Visit Malaysia Year (VMY2020).

I can assure you, our cherished visitors, that all of us in Kedah are laying out the proverbial red carpet for you to partake not just of a visit, but to experience the shared prosperity that’s part of the vision of Malaysia’s own Kedah-born Prime Minister, Tun .

We have many new attractions and packages to complement the popular old. Some things are newly rediscovered such as previously forgotten but fantastic caves or trails, while many others are our once-hidden heritage treasures newly introduced to the world be they natural or cultural and even both.

Be rest assured that Kedah offers exciting things in store for every kind of visit and visitor, be it for an individual explorer, a special travel group, a romantic getaway or a family staycation. Just dig a little, beginning with this booklet, and you will find what you seek in Kedah, the gem of Malaysia.

Selamat datang, na! Sincerely,

YB ASMIRUL ANUAR BIN ARIS Youth & Sport, Tourism, Art & Culture and Entrepreneur Development

Langkawi

8 9 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 Sekapur Sireh 3 A word of Welcome by Champion

Selamat Datang all friends from all corners of Earth, not just to Malaysia but especially to Kedah.

Kedah is indeed a special place in terms of history, geography, nature, adventure, culture, cuisine and everything in between. And this Visitors’ Directory 2020, will help you discover why and how this ancient yet modern Sultanate of Kedah has so much to offer.

As the designated Champion of the Tourism Productivity Nexus of Malaysia, I am particularly focused on ensuring that our tourism sector is not only productive, but also inclusive for all stakeholders and most important, sustainably so. For Kedah, this means that visitors like yourself will not only enjoy your stay in this lovely state, but also be assured that your visit brings benefits to the local people and moreover when you come back here anytime later, you and the local people can still reap the same benefits or even more. Plus we also help educate our people on environmental awareness with long-term business productivity. That’s sustainability!

This is all in line with the idea and advocacy of Shared Prosperity, which is a core of our record-holding Prime Minister Tun Mahathir Muhamad’s vision for Malaysia, where everything from agriculture to industry to tourism mutually feeds and sustains each other. For Kedah, you can see this in even little things such as Kedah tour packages which weave in different places or activities to give you, our visitor, a mix of memorable experiences of Kedah, while sharing honest income for many local folks.

So be assured that we are working for everyone’s well-being, from yourself as our valued guest to all stakeholders and that includes our beautiful environment.

Enjoy Kedah!

UZAIDI UDANIS Champion Tourism Productivity Nexus, Malaysia Sedim Rainforest Resort

10 11 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020

ABOUT TOURISM PRODUCTIVITY NEXUS (TPN)

Tourism Productivity Nexus (TPN) is an industry- T3: Product owners to review pricing system led establishment under the purview of Malaysia of sites Productivity Corporation (MPC). Established as part of Malaysia Productivity Blueprint (MPB), T4: Review industry standards and TPN serves as the one-stop centre which assists regulations with industry’s input enterprises to boost productivity, increase innovation, and capture growth opportunities. T5: Align marketing strategy on targeted TPN champions various initiatives with the aim tourist segments to facilitate growth and increase productivity at the national, sectoral, and enterprise level, as Initiatives spearheaded by TPN are in follows: collaboration with major stakeholders, in the government and industry, especially with the T1: Strengthen collaboration efforts between Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), industry and academia to match industry Tourism Malaysia and Malaysia Tourism Council needs (MTC) with the objective to grow businesses especially those of the small and medium T2: Establish a certification / accreditation enterprises and micro-companies. programme for tourist sites to boost tourist volume and improve service delivery

For more information please visit our productivity portal at wayup.my

12 13 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 MAP OF BANDAR BAHARU

Welcome to

The southern-most district of Kedah state and the first to be reached when arriving by the North-South Highway, Bandar Baharu has the smallest population among Kedah’s districts yet it has an urban-sounding name, meaning ‘New City’ in Malay. Nonetheless it does not lack in attractions especially agriculture and nature with Bandar Baharu arguably being most famous for producing the biggest durians in the region, while its rivers and aquaculture offer the best local river lobsters. Indeed the district’s tourist offerings revolve around its pristine rivers, its welcoming farms and other recreational diversity

14 15 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 RABBIT PARK

Everybody can agree that rabbits are cute and at this Rabbit Park in Bandar Baharu, the cozy ambiance and helpful owners create a children-friendly destination that the whole family will enjoy while petting, holding and feeding these furry creatures

ATTRACTIONS

KERIAN KEM KELULUT AZIKHA RIVER BANK (HONEY BEE CAMP)

Marking the border with A little ‘kelulut’ species honey bee farm neighbouring state to with a big difference, Kem Kelulut Azikha the south, the Kerian River is like a camp that besides rearing bees and affords scenic riverine views producing honey it also allows visitors to and activities with waterside be up close in trying each hive’s honey, and promenade, hawker food there’s even a Kelulut Medical Clinic for centre and fishing especially traditional or alternative medicine using catching the famous local honey-based treatment. river lobster, while the highly valuable kelisa emas or golden arowana is also found in the Kerian river.

16 17 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 BATU HAMPAR FARMSTAY RELAU RECREATIONAL FOREST

A popular nature recreation and swimming A friendly family-run area with pristine jungle river and rushing integrated farm at Relau in waterfalls, located in the Serdang subdistrict rural near Kampung Titi Akar, the recreational with fruit orchards and park is filled with diverse flora and fauna chalets plus activities that including various bird species, which can can be arranged also with all be enjoyed with trekking and camping nearby villages, Farmstay activities. Relau is most famous for its excellent durians from mature trees, not forgetting their other delicious local fruits such as manggis (mangosteen) and the hairy rambutan fruit.

AMS EQUESTRIAN CLUB

Whether for professional horse riders or amateurs, for show training or leisure , and whether riding outdoor in paddock or in open nature or even indoors, AMS Equestrian Club has you literally covered, plus having necessary safety measures and trained coaches to ensure all visitors have a safe and enjoyable time with these beautiful creatures.

18 19 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 Kedah Cuisine and a Cuppa

Prawn Noodle

Gulai Daging Batang Pisang Beef Noodle Soup

While Kedah shares staple food ingredients such as rice and noodles with the region, there are recipes so original to the state until it bears its name. Laksa Kedah is one such must-try, a fish-based soupy rice noodle dish. For a local cuppa, try our local coffees such as ‘kopi Kedah’ and ‘kopi Cap Gantang’ and you won’t go wrong.

Kuih Pek Nga Kuih Bunga Pudak Kuih Dangai Laksa Kedah

Kopi Raga Kuih Karas Thimpan 20 21 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 FOOD TRAIL COMPANY LISTINGS Accommodation RABBIT PARK AZILAH CEMERLANG Contact Person: ENTERPRISE Razali Tasmin Contact Person: Tel: +6010-431 0944 Siti Norazilah Razi https://www.facebook.com/ Tel: +6013-516 2600 rabbitparkbandarbaharu/ FAMA MARA Contact Person: Contact Person: Mohd Fareidzal Suaid Ismail Hassan Tel: +6012-434 7483 Tel: +6012-456 8812 Nazirah Binti Osman NICTRON AGRICULTURE Tel: +6019-416 5081 SDN BHD RESTORAN MEE UDANG Contact Person: PINGGAN BESAR KEK LAPIS Wan Azlina Wan Musa (Local Cuisine) Contact Person: Tel: +6019-444 9831 8 Selera 12 unit MDBB, Norehan Md Isa 34950 Kedah Darul Aman Tel: +6013-490 1986 NICTRON AGRICULTURE Tel: +6019-5406722 SDN BHD Operation Hours: 12pm-9pm KEK LAPIS SARAWAK Contact Person: The Jerai Hill Resort Closed on Thursday & Friday Contact Person: Mashita Mansor https://www.facebook.com/ Siti Baiduri Ismail Tel: +6019-410 9731 MEE-UDANG-Pinggan- Tel: +6019-547 1386 Some of the world’s best Accommodation in Bandar HOTEL BESAR-158432224304358/ FARMSTAY RELAU resorts and friendliest Baharu may not be so KUIH KARAS Contact Person: homestays can be found numerous but what it lacks Serdang Lake View Resort WAMBIT THE CABIN Contact Person: Abd Razak Abdul Hamid Jalan Lombong, 09800 Serdang (Serving Western Cuisine) Qamil Amy Tel: +6013-435 1520 in Kedah. Saying ‘spoilt in numbers it makes up in Kedah Darul Aman Kampung Batu 19, Ait Puteh Tel: +6013-405 7156 https://www.facebook.com/ for choice’ here is an coziness. From small friendly Tel: +6013-575 4880 09800 Serdang, Kedah Darul Aman farmstayrelau/ understatement. Choose hotels to family-run chalets +604-407 8888 KOMPLEKS SUKAN KOMUNITI website: https:// Tel: +6012-437 3600 from a diversity of and a little more, all nice Operation Hours: 5pm-12am Contact Person: FARMSTAY RELAU serdanglakeviewresort.business. https://www.facebook.com/ Ramli Sani Sopian Contact Person: accommodation ranging to relax in after activities site/ wambitcabin Tel: +6011-2432 3308 Saiful Helmi Abdul Razak from luxury pads and galore. email: serdanglakeviewresort@ Tel: +6012-458 0853 https://www.facebook.com/Kompleks- international value hotels gmail.com S LOAM MIT THAI RESTAURANT Sukan-Komuniti-Bandar-Baharu- https://www.facebook.com/ https://www.facebook.com/ (Serving Thai Cuisine) 315107269069453/?ref=page_ farmstayrelau/ to serviced apartments and serdanglakeviewresort/ Kampung Bagan Samak internal simple, clean guesthouses. 34950 Bandar Baharu PEMANAH TRADISIONAL HOMESTAY Kedah Darul Aman WARISAN BUSANA MELAYU SERDANG Contact Person: Contact Person: Tel: +605-717 3068 HOMESTAY RELAU Operation Hours: Zuhairi Habali Hj Ismail Hussain Tel: +6010-231 0894 Tel: +6013-582 2772 Lot 1064, Sri Impian, Relau, 34950 11.30am-10.00pm Bandar Baharu, Kedah Darul Aman https://www.facebook.com/wira. https://m.facebook.com/pages/S- Contact Person: Loam-Mit-Thai-Restaurant-Bagan- dot.net KEM KELULUT Contact Person: Abdul Razak Abdul Hamid Samak/1991825491106607 Tel: +6013-4351520 WARISAN BUSANA MELAYU Ismail Awang Kechik +604-582 5858 https://www.facebook.com/wira. Tel: +6012-442 2446 BAGAN SAMAK RIVER & email: [email protected] SEAFOOD RESTAURANT dot.net PERABUT https://www.facebook.com/ (Serving Chinese Cuisine) farmstayrelau/ L4583, Kampung Baru, Bagan PEJABAT PERIKANAN Contact Person: Samak, 34950, Bandar Baharu, BANDAR BAHARU Mohd Azli Shah Contact Person: Tel: +6016-857 9756 FARMSTAY RELAU Kedah Darul Aman LOT 1014, Kampung Paya Semambu Tel: +6012-428 3342 Mohd Tamizy Hussin TOKONG Relau Bandar Bahru Operation Hours: 34950 Kedah Darul Aman 11.30am-10.00pm (Rumah Ibadat - Temple) Contact Person: Tel: +6012-458 0853 https://www.facebook.com/ email: [email protected] bagansamakriverandseafood/ Chew Chee Hooi Tel: +60102810479 https://www.facebook.com/ #Gah Kedah Participants farmstayrelau/ 22 23 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020

Essential Information We trust that everything goes well in your visit to Kedah. But just in case, here are essential contacts and other useful information that would help in ensuring that your stay is on track.

24 25 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020

Location & Transportation

If ancient traders could travel to Kedah since BY AIR BY RAIL nearly 2000 years ago, you can too. Located Getting to Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Malindo Fast and comfortable KTM Electric Air and others operate daily air Train Services (ETS) express trains on the northwest coast of Peninsular the Kedah services direct from run from KL Sentral station in Malaysia, it is one of the country’s northern to Kedah. You can take flights from Kuala Lumpur daily and stop at gateways bordering to its north. Kuala Lumpur International Airport major towns in Kedah including Mainland (KLIA) or Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah , , Gurun You can travel to Kedah by air, road, rail or Airport (Subang Skypark) to Sultan and before proceeding sea even on a cruise ship. Abdul Halim Airport in Kepala Batas to neighbouring . Visitors just 20 minutes’ drive from Alor heading for Langkawi should Setar, or to Langkawi Airport. disembark at Alor Setar or in Perlis and proceed to the respective BY ROAD jetty terminals to arrange their Just a five-hour drive from Kuala transfer. The of Lumpur brings you to Kedah using is the entry the North-South Expressway point for visitors who are arriving (PLUS). Air-conditioned express from Sadao, Thailand. There is buses to Kedah can be taken at an Immigration and Customs KL’s Terminal Bersepadu Selatan checkpoint at the border crossing or Hentian Duta bus hubs. Bus that is open for travellers from services go to Alor Setar, Sungai 6.00am to midnight (Malaysian Petani, Gurun, , Kulim, Baling time). and Bukit Kayu Hitam at the Thai border. Buses, taxis and even e-hailing car services are also available from neighbouring states to Kedah and vice versa. 26 27 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 GETTING AROUND USEFUL CONTACT ALOR SETAR RAILWAY STATION NUMBERS Tel: +604 731 4045 SELF-DRIVE SUNGAI PETANI TOURISM ENQUIRIES Rent a car at the airport or via car RAILWAY STATION rental services and explore Kedah ALOR SETAR Tel: +604 421 0703 on the comprehensive network of Tourist Information Centre +604 421 1301 roads around the state. Tel: +604 731 2322 +604-730 1322 PADANG BESAR STATION BUSES AND TAXIS Tel: +604 9490209 There are transport terminals in BUKIT KAYU HITAM each city and major town in Kedah Tourist Information Centre BUSES for local buses, interstate buses and Tel: +604 922 2078 TRANSNATIONAL EXPRESS taxis with a major hub in Alor Setar +604 922 1249 Tel: +604 734 5946 (Alor Setar) known as Terminal Shahab Perdana EMail: [email protected] +604 4214346 (Sungai Petani) at Jalan Langgar. In Sungai Petani, the main bus terminal is situated at LANGKAWI PLUSLINER EXPRESS Ukir Square, Jalan . Get INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Tel: +603 4045 8878 (Hotline) to various towns in Kedah and other Tourist Information Centre +604 734 5946 (Alor Setar) major destinations in Peninsular Tel: +604 955 1311 +604 421 4346 (Sungai Petani) Malaysia especially Kuala Lumpur, CEPAT EXPRESS , Melaka, Kuantan and Tel: +604 730 3110 (Alor Setar) Bahru by bus. For festive and Tourist Information Centre +604 4248182 (Sungai Petani) holiday seasons tickets must be (Jetty Point Complex) +604 924 6050 (Bukit Kayu Hitam) booked in advance. Tel: +604 966 0494 KEDAH STATE UTAMA EXPRESS GETTING TO TOURISM ACTION COUNCIL Tel: +604 7345946 (Alor Setar) LANGKAWI Tel: +604 735 1030 +604 4214346 (Sungai Petani) +604732 8296 TAXI BY AIR LANGKAWI DEVELOPMENT AIRPORT TAXI (Alor Setar) Malaysia Airlines operates daily air AUTHORITY (LADA) Tel: +604 714 5876 services to Langkawi from Kuala Tel: +604 960 0600 Lumpur, while its subsidiary, , Email: [email protected] CAR RENTAL offers daily flights to Langkawi from the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport AIRLINES HERTZ CAR RENTAL in Subang and Penang. AirAsia Tel: +604 7144959 provides daily flights to Langkawi MALAYSIA AIRLINES from Kuala Lumpur and other cities. Tel: 1 300 88 3000 FERRIES There are direct flights to Langkawi +603 7843 3000 even from . LANGKAWI FERRY SERVICES AIRASIA SDN. BHD. Tel: Tel: +603 2171 9333 BY SEA +604 966 9439 Express ferries provide regular ser- FIREFLY AIRLINES vices to Langkawi from LANGKAWI RO RO FERRY Tips for Tel: +603 7845 4543 in mainland Kedah and SERVICES Tel: +604 9669881 in the neighbouring state of Perlis. The sea ride from Kuala Kedah Tel: +603 7841 5388 FERRYLINE VENTURES SDN.BHD. takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. Visitors Tel: +604 9663988 Ferry services to Langkawi are also SULTAN ABDUL HALIM AIRPORT available from Penang as well as Alor Setar GENERAL ENQUIRIES , Thailand. Tel: +604 7146876 IMMIGRATION OFFICE BY RAIL LANGKAWI Alor Setar Travellers heading for Langkawi INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Tel: +604 733 3302 may refer to the section above and Tel: +604 955 1311 disembark at Alor Setar or also IMMIGRATION OFFICE Arau in Perlis and proceed to the RAILWAYS Bukit Kayu Hitam respective jetty terminal at Kuala Tel: +604 922 1621 Kedah or Kuala Perlis for ferries to KERETAPI TANAH MELAYU BERHAD the . Railway Call Centre (KTMB) IMMIGRATION OFFICE Tel: +603 2267 1200 Langkawi Tel: +604 9694400 28 29 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 Essential Malay Phrases You’ll Need in Malaysia MAKING YOUR STAY NICE The or Bahasa Melayu is a relatively easy language to learn and speak. Pronunciation generally follows the spelling, with “sy” in Malay pronounced as the “sh” sound in English. The only slight uncertainty being “e” which can be Local Etiquette pronounced either like the ‘her’ or ‘hey’ sound but generally you will still be understood even if it is mixed up. and Advice

GREETINGS AND ESSENTIALS AT THE RESTAURANT / CAFE Lapan / Eight • While visiting any venue where you meet local • To eat and also to give or receive something, the Terima kasih / Thank you Kurang manis / Less sweet Sembilan / Nine people, do be respectful of local customs and right hand is always used (unless it is a large item traditions; a friendly smile will never go wrong and where both hands are needed). Ya/Tidak – Yes/No Tanpa gula / No sugar Sepuluh / Ten just ask someone if unsure. Selamat datang / Welcome Kurang ais / Less ice MAKING FRIENDS • When pointing, it is preferable to use the right Selamat jalan / Goodbye Tanpa susu / No milk • Handshakes are generally acceptable for both hand’s thumb with the other four fingers folded Apa khabar? / How are you? men and women, but observant Muslim ladies under, rather than the forefinger especially when Sama-sama / You’re welcome Tambah pedas / Extra spicy Khabar baik / I’m fine or even men may acknowledge introductions pointing to a person. Always ask for permission Saya fak faham / I don’t understand Kurang pedas / Less spicy Dah makan? / Have you eaten? to the opposite gender simply by nodding and before taking photographs of someone or when smiling. A Malaysian welcome greeting is the right inside someone’s home. DIRECTIONS AND Sedap / Tasty Cantik / Beautiful palm placed over the heart with a slight nod and the TRANSPORTATION Air / Water Maaf / I’m sorry reply is the same. The more traditional greeting • The country’s Muslim majority (about two-thirds of Di mana tandas? / Where is the toilet? AT THE MARKET Tolong / Please or salam resembles a handshake but uses both the population) does not consume pork or any Belok kanan / Turn right hands without the grasp. After the hands touch, they porcine products nor liquor or alcoholic beverages. Berapa? / How much? Jom / Let’s go Belok kiri / Turn left are lightly brought to the chest to mean the greeting Thus, toasting is not a common practice. Mahal / Expensive FOR EVERYTHING ELSE… is heartfelt. Jalan terus / Go straight • The weather is generally quite warm with occasional NUMBERS Perlahan sikit / Slow down Panas / Hot • Footwear must always be removed when visiting torrential showers. Cotton or light clothes, rubber Teksi / Taxi Satu / One Sejuk / Cold homes or places of worship such as mosques and shoes and hats are suitable. Note that some Dua / Two Boleh / Can temples. Most mosques provide robes and scarves establishments such as upmarket restaurants may Bas / Bus for ladies, and sarongs for men wearing shorts. not allow slippers, shorts or sleeveless. Tiga / Three Kampung / Village Kapalterbang / Flight/Plane When sitting on the floor, men sit cross-legged while Keretapi / Train Empat / Four Sungai / River women normally sit with their legs tucked to either side. Jalan / Road Lima / Five Pantai / Beach Keluar / Exit Enam / Six Laut / Sea Masuk / Entrance Tujuh / Seven Awas / Caution 30 31 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020

POPULATION BANKING HOURS 32.5 million In most states, banking hours are from 9.30am to 4.00pm from Monday to Friday. Banks in the states of PEOPLE and operate from 9.30am to 4.00pm from Malay and related Bumiputra groups make up about 65% Saturday to Thursday. of the population, with Chinese, Indians and other ethnic groups making up the rest. POST OFFICES Most post offices are open from 8.00am to 5.00pm daily LANGUAGE except on state weekends and public holidays. Bahasa Melayu (Malay language) is the national language but English is widely spoken. Malaysians also speak ELECTRICITY various ethnic languages and dialects. The voltage used throughout Malaysia is 220–240 volts AC, at 50 cycles per second. Standard 3-pin sockets and RELIGION square plugs are used. Islam is the official religion but all major religions are practiced freely and visitors will see mosques, churches MEASUREMENT SYSTEM and Buddhist, Taoist, Hindu or Sikh temples all over the Malaysia uses the international metric system. country. TELECOMMUNICATIONS GOVERNMENT Malaysia is openly linked nationally and internationally Malaysia practices parliamentary democracy and by telephone, facsimile, telegraph and via the internet. constitutional monarchy. The Head of State is the Yang Most hotels provide International Direct Dial (IDD) di-Pertuan Agong (the King or ‘Agong’ for short) and the telephone services as well as Internet Wi-Fi connection. Head of Government is the Prime Minister. The country has a bicameral legislative system, with general and state GETTING TO MALAYSIA elections required every five years. The most popular gateway to Malaysia is through the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) at Sepang, CLIMATE located just over 50km south of Kuala Lumpur. Other Malaysia has a tropical climate and the weather is warm major international airports that serve as entry points and humid all year round. Daily temperature range is are at Penang, , Kuching, Kota Kinabalu from 21°C in early morning to 32°C or more in urban and the island of Langkawi as well as a smaller airport area afternoons. The average annual rainfall varies from at Subang near Kuala Lumpur. Around 50 international 2,000mm to 2,500mm. airlines fly into the country. The national carrier, Malaysia Airlines, is complemented by budget airlines or ENTRY REQUIREMENTS other operators such as AirAsia, Malindo Air and Firefly. COUNTRY Visitors must be in possession of a valid passport or The federation of Malaysia comprises Peninsular acknowledged travel document with a minimum validity The main entry point by sea is at about 30km Malaysia (which is made up of 11 states), the large of six months beyond the intended stay period. Citizens west of Kuala Lumpur, especially for cruise ships with Malaysia states of and Sarawak on Borneo Island and three of most countries do not require visas for social or other ports of call in Penang and Langkawi islands. Federal Territories namely Kuala Lumpur the capital, business meeting visits. For further information, please the federal administrative city and call or visit the nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission or Peninsular Malaysia is also accessible by rail and road offshore financial centre. at a Tourism Malaysia office. from Singapore and Thailand. CAPITAL CITY CURRENCY GETTING AROUND Kuala Lumpur is the capital where the Parliament and The monetary currency unit is the Malaysian Ringgit, Malaysia has excellent domestic air links services by the King’s palace are, while Putrajaya is the federal which is domestically denoted as RM and in international Malaysia Airlines and low-cost carriers such as AirAsia, Glance administrative centre. banking as MYR. Foreign currencies can be freely Malindo Air and Firefly. The country has a relatively changed at banks and money changers. well-developed and efficient public transportation GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION system served by buses and taxis, as well as trains on the Lying 2 to 7 degrees north of the Equator, Peninsular TIME Peninsula. E-hailing vehicle services are also available. Malaysia is separated from Sabah and Sarawak by Laut Standard Malaysia time is eight hours ahead of GMT and Bunguran or the South China Sea. The Peninsular is 16 hours ahead of US Pacific Standard Time. ACCOMMODATION bordered with Thailand in the north, while its southern Malaysia has a wide range of accommodation at very neighbour is Singapore. The states of Sabah and Sarawak WORKING DAYS competitive rates. International star-rated hotels, on Borneo Island share a common border with Government and most offices in all states, with the beach or forest resorts, chalets, budget hotels, hostels, while Sarawak also shares a border with exception of Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, operate serviced apartments and registered homestays or Darussalam. on a five-day week from Monday to Friday. Government kampungstays are just some of the many types of offices in Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu are open accommodation available. Online booking is popular. AREA from Sunday to Thursday. They are closed on Friday and 329,758 sq km Saturday.

32 33 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020

MAY SEPTEMBER

IFTAR PROGRAM LEMBAH BUJANG TREASURE HUNT 17 May 6 September Masjid Zahir Lembah Bujang,

JUNE KEDAH INTERNATIONAL 4 X 4 CHALLENGE DURIAN AGRO TOURISM FEST 2020 16 September 13 June Tasik Darulaman, Jitra Bandar Baharu, Kulim OCTOBER JANUARY MARCH MAI MAKAN MEMPELAM 27 June KEDAH HALAL FEST FESTIVAL 29 October - 1 November KARNIVAL HARAPAN KEDAH KARNIVAL KEUSAHAWANAN DAN Tobiar 4 - Jan KERJAYA NEGERI KEDAH Amanjaya Mall, Sungai Petani Stadium Mini Keladi, Kulim 13 – 14 March LANGKAWI UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK Unishams, Kuala Ketil, Baling INTERNATIONAL NOVEMBER THE 18TH ROYAL LANGKAWI TOUCH RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP 2020 INTERNATIONAL REGATTA KEDAH 2020 RUN 6-7 June KEDAH FISHING TOURNAMENT 6 - 11 Jan 7 March Langkawi Sport Complex 7 November Langkawi Island, Langkawi Muzium Padi, Alor Setar Tasik Unishams, Kuala Ketil JULY ULTRON ALOR SETAR RUN 2020 DECEMBER BURUNG HANTU NIGHT RUN 2020 14 March INTERNATIONAL EUREKA INNOVATION 18 - Jan Aeon Big, Alor Setar EXHIBITION 2020 KEDAH UNDER12 INTERNATIONAL Menara Alor Setar, Alor Setar 28 – 30 July FOOTBALL COMPETITION INTERNATIONAL INVENTION, Unikl Campus, Kulim 11-13 December FEBRUARY INNOVATION & Langkawi DESIGN COMPETITION 2020 HARI PELADANG PENTERNAK 19 March DAN NELAYAN PERINGKAT LE All related event information is subject to 7 -14 Feb UITM Merbok, Sungai Petani NEGERI KEDAH 2020 24-28 July change by the organiser from time to time Langkawi Island, Langkawi and this administration is not responsible Taman Jubli Emas, Alor Setar APRIL for the risks and losses based on the HERO RUN V2.0 information above. 15 Feb KEDAH FOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION AUGUST Riverfront City, Sungai Petani 01 April – 25 November Setiap Daerah INTERHASH LANGKAWI 2020 MASTER TOUR DE MALAYSIA 2020 21 – 23 August 22 – 23 Feb MALAYSIA SERIES CHALLENGE KEDAH Langkawi Island, Langkawi Uum 11 April Menara MPSPK, Sungai Petani MERDEKA FUN RUN 2020 THE 3RD LANGKAWI ULTRA 22 August 29 Feb - 1 March Mydin Taman Batik, Sungai Petani Resort World Langkawi

34 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Life is all about teamwork, and a good Directory like this one As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words. So, we say for Kedah requires good teamwork from so many parties, terima kasih and a thousand credits for each picture from not just from within but even from without the state as well. our team of partners, as follows: We wish to thank all those listed below and even those who may be inadvertently missed, with a huge heartfelt Kedah inspired Terima kasih banyak na!

PEJABAT MENTERI BESAR LANGKAWI DEVELOPMENT MALAYSIAN ASSOCIATION TOURISM MALAYSIA PAWANA JERAI RESORT TAMUASIA KEDAH DARUL AMAN AUTHORITY (LADA) OF HOTELS Photo by Denan Lee KEDAH TOURISM PEDU LAKE ECO & SERVICES KEDAH GOVERNMENT COUNCIL KEDAH TOURISM SDN. BHD. PANTAI CENANG SECRETARY'S OFFICE ALOR SETAR CITY COUNCIL MARDI JERAM PASU LANGKAWI BANDAR BAHARU KEDAH TOURIST Photo by Izuddin Helmi Adnan STATE GOVERNMENT DISTRICT COUNCIL GUIDE ASSOCIATION KULIM MUNICIPAL COUNCIL FAMA on Unsplash OF KEDAH DARUL AMAN KEDA KUBANG PASU MUNICIPAL PARALAYANG TAEH BUKIT LANGKAWI STATE ECONOMIC COUNCIL COUNCIL GUNUNG BUNGSU KAB. Photo by Ilyuza Mingazova on DEVELOPMENT DIVISION MALAYSIA INBOUND LIMA PULUH KOTA Unsplash KEDAH OFFICE DISTRICT AND LAND OFFICE TOURISM ASSOCIATION COUNCIL OF KUALA MUDA (MITA) tripadvisor.com.my/ GUNUNG PULAI, BALING ALOR SETAR CITY COUNCIL COUNCIL Photo by Heiswayi Nrird on KEDAH DARUL AMAN MALAYSIA PRODUCTIVITY cintasayangresort.com/ Unsplash KULIM MUNICIPAL COUNCIL PUBLIC LIBRARY CORPORATION CORPORATION (Northern Region Office) COUNCIL gokelah.com/ EMERGENCY KUBANG PASU Photo by Greg Nunes on MUNICIPAL COUNCIL KEDAH STATE MUSEUM TOURISM PRODUCTIVITY YAN DISTRICT COUNCIL blackforest.com.my/ Unsplash NEXUS BALING DISTRICT COUNCIL TOWN AND COUNTRY LANGKAWI MUNICIPAL ammboi.com/ GUNUNG PULAI, BALING PLANNING OF THE STATE OF COUNCIL TOURISM CITY Photo by Jihao Tan on Unsplash SIK DISTRICT COUNCIL KEDAH DARUL AMAN BANDAR BAHARU DISTRICT GUNUNG BINTANG PADANG TERAP MINISTRY OF TOURISM, COUNCIL Mynewshub DISTRICT COUNCIL ARTS AND CULTURE MALAYSIA PENDANG DISTRICT WHITE WATER RAFTING LANGKAWI MUNICIPAL COUNCIL Sedim Rainforest Resort COUNCIL TOURISM CITY KEDAH OFFICE MALAYSIAN HISTORICAL PENANG-TRAVELTIPS.COM SOCIETY Timothy Tye MEDIA

UTUSAN MALAYSIA STESEN RADIO KEDAH FM BERITA HARIAN UTUSAN ONLINE HARIAN SINAR ONLINE RADIO TELEVISYEN KEDAHTV MALAYSIA (RTM) WARTA KEDAH RANCANGAN SELAMAT PAGI MALAYSIA

37 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 KEDAH Visitors’ Directory 2020 EMERGENCIES

MPC Offices

HEADQUARTERS (Petaling Jaya) MALAYSIA PRODUCTIVITY CORPORATION Lorong Produktiviti Jalan Sultan, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Tel: +603-7955 7266 | Fax: +603-7957 8068 POLICE STATIONS POLICE LODGES CLINICS Email: [email protected]

BANDAR BAHARU DISTRICT SELAMA POLICE LODGES KLINIK KESIHATAN POLICE HEADQUARTERS Polis Diraja Malaysia BANDAR BAHARU Polis Diraja Malaysia Jalan Mahang 34950 Bandar Baharu PETALING JAYA OFFICE SARAWAK REGION OFFICE TERENGGANU OFFICE Jalan Selama 09810 Selama Kedah Darul Aman Malaysia Productivity Corporation Malaysia Productivity Corporation Malaysia Productivity Corporation 09800 Serdang Kedah Darul Aman Tel: +605-717 8232 A-06-01 Level 6, Blok A Lot 894, Lorong Demak Laut 3A Lot No. 1F, 22 Kompleks Usahawan Bandar Baharu Tel: +605-839 4224 PJ 8 No. 23, Jalan Barat Seksyen 8 Taman Perindustrian Demak Laut Terengganu Kubang Jela, Manir Kedah Darul Aman KLINIK DESA PERMATANG 46050 Petaling Jaya 93050 Kuching 21200 Kuala Terengganu Tel: +604-407 7222 LIBUK BUNTAR POLICE LODGES KERAT TELUNJUK Selangor Sarawak Terengganu Polis Diraja Malaysia Permatang Kerat Telunjuk Tel: +603-7960 0173/ Tel: 6082-439 959 / 439 960 Tel: +609-615 6089 SERDANG POLICE STATION Jalanraya Serdang 34950 Bandar Baharu 176/178/179 Fax: 6082-439 969 Fax: +609-605 6081 Polis Diraja Malaysia 09800 Serdang Kedah Darul Aman Fax: +603-76900211 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Jalan Selama Kedah Darul Aman Tel: +604-404 2730 Email: [email protected] 09800 Serdang Tel: +604-4077462 EAST COAST REGION OFFICE KELANTAN OFFICE Kedah Darul Aman KLINIK DESA BAGAN SAMAK NOTHERN REGION OFFICE Malaysia Productivity Corporation Malaysia Productivity Corporation Tel: +604-407 7222 SG. KECIL HILIR POLICE LODGES Kampung Bagan Samak Malaysia Productivity Corporation Tingkat 14, Menara Zenith, Jalan Pejabat Negeri Kelantan Tingkat Polis Diraja Malaysia 34950 Beg Berkunci 206 Putra Square 6 3, Wisma PERKESO Jalan Kota BANDAR BAHARU Jalan Sg. Kecil Kedah Darul Aman Jalan Tun Hamdan Sheikh Tahir 25200 Kuantan Darulnaim 15538 Kota Bharu POLICE STATION 34300 Bandar Baharu Tel: +604-404 2228 13200 Kepala Batas Kelantan Polis Diraja Malaysia Kedah Darul Aman Seberang Utara Jalan Bandar Baharu Tel: +605-593 1305 KLINIK KESIHATAN Tel: +609-513 1788 / 513 1789 Tel: +609-741 6260 / Pulau Pinang 34950 Bandar Baharu LUBOK BUNTAR Fax: +609-513 8903 +609-741 6262 Kedah Darul Aman BANGAN SAMAK 34950 Serdang Tel: +604-575 4709 Email: [email protected] Fax: +609-741 6263 Tel:+605-716 1222 POLICE LODGES Kedah Darul Aman Fax: +604-575 4410 Email: [email protected] Polis Diraja Malaysia Tele: +604-407 7320 Email: [email protected] SABAH REGION OFFICE POLICE STATION Jalanraya Bangan Samak Malaysia Productivity Corporation Polis Diraja Malaysia 34950 Bandar Baharu KLINIK KESIHATAN SERDANG SOUTHERN REGION OFFICE Level 2, MAA Tower Jalan Batu Satu Kedah Darul Aman Jalan Pecah Batu, Serdang Malaysia Productivity Corporation 6, Lorong Api- Api 1 08100 Bedong Tel: +605-716 1322 09800 Serdan No. 8 Jalan Padi Bandar 88000 Kota Kinabalu Kedah Darul Aman Kedah Darul Aman Baru UDA Sabah Tel: +604-458 2222 Tel: +604-407 7355 81200 Johor Bahru Tel: +6088-233 245 / 235 837 Johor Fax: +6088-242 815 MERBOK POLICE STATION Tel: +607-237 7422/ 237 7644 Email: [email protected] Polis Diraja Malaysia Fax: +607-238 0798 Jalan Merbok Email: [email protected] 08400 Merbok Kedah Darul Aman Tel: +604-457 2004 38 39 Published by:

Malaysia Productivity Corporation and Tourism Productivity Nexus

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained herein is correct at the time of publication, Malaysia Productivity Corporation and Tourism Productivity Nexus Malaysia Productivity Corporation or its affiliates and partners shall not be held liable for any errors, HEADQUARTERS inaccuracies, omissions or which may occur. (Petaling Jaya) Lorong Produktiviti MPC/TPN (English) / TamuAsia / Kedah Jalan Sultan, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor December 2019 Tel: +603-7955 7266 | Fax: +603-7957 8068 (TRAFFICKING IN ILLEGAL DRUGS CARRIES THE DEATH PENALTY) Email: [email protected]