Nestling near the glistening waters of Kelantan River, Kampung Laut Heritage Site of (Laman Warisan Kampung Laut) offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, picturesque villages, cultural heritage, and a tranquil way of life.
This charming coastal village is a hidden gem that attracts both local and international travellers who seek an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Kampung Laut, which is now gazetted as a heritage site, comprises three main parts: the Serunding Heritage Site (Laman Warisan Serunding), the Art Heritage Site (Laman Warisan Seni), and Kampung Laut Mosque.
Serunding Heritage Site (Laman Warisan Serunding)
Indulge your taste buds in a Kelantanese delight at the Serunding Heritage Site! Take home serunding – a savoury meat floss made from succulent meat, a dash of coconut milk, a sprinkle of onions, pepper, and a symphony of aromatic spices, which are all cooked and mixed to perfection. It’s the necessary condiment that elevates Kelantanese dishes to a whole new level. Your palate is in for a rollercoaster ride of flavours – sweet, salty, and a hint of zing!
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Choose from an array of serunding options like Serunding Daging Tempatan (local meat), Serunding Daging Import (imported meat), Serunding Ayam (chicken), and Serunding Ikan (fish). If that were not enough, be sure to check out the sweet flavours of dodol (toffee-like palm sugar confection) and gelembung boyo (traditional confection made from grated coconut, glutinous rice and pandan paste).
Art Heritage Site (Laman Warisan Seni)
Kelantan is well-known as the cradle of Malay culture the state is rich in arts and crafts that have been passed down from generation to generation. The Art Heritage Site is developed to preserve and promote such artistic and cultural heritage of the Kelantanese community in Kampung Laut.
The local artists here are renowned for their skills in producing ornate products such as batik, kites, calligraphy artworks, and handicraft items. Travellers get the opportunity to witness how these crafts are made and even try making them too, which they can take home as a lovely souvenir!
Kampung Laut Mosque
At the heart of Kampung Laut Heritage Site stands the area’s crown jewel: the age-old Kampung Laut Mosque. This venerable structure boasts a history that can be traced as far back as the 16th century, thus earning its distinction as Malaysia’s oldest mosque.
Legend has it that a band of intrepid Muslim missionaries (mubaligh) from the Sultanate of Demak in Java found themselves unexpectedly marooned in Kampung Laut due to a mishap with their seafaring vessel when they were making their way to Champa. In gratitude for their safe landing, they constructed the now-iconic Kampung Laut Mosque. Fast forward to the late 19th century, during the reign of the Kelantan Sultan from 1859 to 1900, this mosque served as a pivotal hub for royal rendezvous and spiritual gatherings.
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Over the centuries, the Kampung Laut Mosque underwent a series of renovations and reconstructions while preserving its traditional architectural style which is quintessentially Malay. Characterised by its multi-tiered roof, intricate wood carvings, and traditional Islamic geometric patterns, the fascinating design showcases the craftsmanship and woodworking skills of the local artisans.
Remarkably, not a single nail was utilised in its construction – a testament to the traditional Malay builders’ prowess. Today, this hallowed edifice not only stands as a marker of religious devotion but also an indelible emblem of Kelantan’s storied past and authentic cultural heritage. The mosque’s historical and architectural eminence warrants it a must-see attraction for visitors to Kelantan, offering a glimpse into the enduring vitality of Malay culture.
Dikir Rebana Kercing
Dikir Rebana Kercing is a mesmerising musical spectacle exclusive to Kelantan. Originating from the quaint village of Kampung Laut over a century and a half ago, it began as a delightful pastime for Arab traders frequenting the area. Today, it graces royal coronations, weddings, and significant Islamic occasions like Maulidul Rasul, owing to its deeply ingrained Islamic essence.
Decked in costumes that fuse Malay and Arabic influences, Rebana Kercing performers rhythmically chant verses in both languages. Each song unveils a vibrant dance, weaving tales of life wisdom, moral codes, and religious doctrines. The ensemble comprises 22 artists, with a dozen dancers and ten “pemalu rebana” (percussionists).
Once a cherished tradition, this unique art form began to fade. That was when the Dikir Rebana Kercing Kampung Laut Association stepped in to ensure that the next generation picks up the mantle. Fortunately, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK), in collaboration with the Kelantan state government and the US Embassy of Malaysia, also joined forces to safeguard this cultural gem from being extinct.
In 2022, a generous grant from the US Ambassador Fund Award breathed new life into Dikir Rebana Kercing. The funds were allocated for a comprehensive research and documentation effort, led by UMK academicians. This pivotal project paved the way for Dikir Rebana Kercing to become a vibrant extracurricular activity for UMK students and even found a place in the school curricula.
From the tranquil, picturesque surroundings to the captivating traditions that have defied the ravages of time, Kampung Laut invites you on an unforgettable expedition.
For more info, visit https://tourism.kelantan.my/index.php/ms/.
