July-August. 2025
04 Muslim-Friendly Kelantan
Kelantan ' s Islamic legacy
The east coast state emerges as an icon of faith, culture and heritage
KELANTAN is home to a rich Islamic heritage deeply embedded in its landscape, culture and architecture. Visitors seeking a meaningful spiritual and cultural journey will find Kelantan ' s iconic mosques and heritage sites both inspiring and enlightening. This feature article highlights five notable attractions that embody Kelantan’ s rich Islamic heritage, offering visitors meaningful insights into the State’ s spiritual, cultural and architectural legacy, along with a Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition( MFAR)-certified accommodation that complements the travel experience.
DESA GEMALAI BARUH PADI ALAMI, KOTA BHARU
A new agro-tourism attraction in Kelantan with a 12-acre natural rice field concept, organic farming, traditional architecture, and authentic village dishes.
Apart from offering a relaxing atmosphere and fish pond, it also opens up economic opportunities for local residents through the production of MRQ76 Natural Baruh Padi Fragrant Rice.
MASJID BEIJING, RANTAU PANJANG
Further west, near the Thai border, stands Masjid Beijing in Rantau Panjang – a remarkable fusion of Islamic faith and Chinese architectural heritage.
Modelled after mosques from the Ming Dynasty, this distinctive structure embodies cultural harmony and reflects the universal reach of Islam across civilisations.
It serves as both a place of worship and a popular landmark, frequently photographed by visitors.
KAMPUNG KRAFTANGAN, KOTA BHARU
Adjacent to Dataran Rehal is the Kampung Kraftangan( Handicraft Village), a cultural complex that showcases the artistry of Kelantanese craftsmanship, featuring intricate wood carvings, batik, and traditional weavings.
Infused with Islamic aesthetics and motifs, the crafts here tell stories of identity, tradition and faith.