Area:14,943 square km

State Capital and Royal Town:Kota Bharu

Administrative Divisions:10 (Bachok, Gua Musang, Jeli, Kota Bharu, Kuala Krai, Machang, Pasir Mas, Pasir Puteh, Tanah Merah and Tampa)

Sub-Administrative Divisions:66

Population:1,420,140 (1997)

Breakdown of Races: � Malays: 1,205,600
� Chinese: 56,600
� Others: 10,200
� Other Bumiputeras: 9,000
� Indians: 6,000

History:

Early Kelantan history showed that it was constantly embroiled in political turmoil involving royal families from various regional kingdoms.Following the fall of the Melaka Sultanate in early 15th century,Kelantan fell under the on-and-off influence of neighbouring Patani. The Siamese established its influence on Kelantan following an 1832 treaty. A British adviser was installed in Kelantan, with the title of Siamese High Commissioner. W.A. Graham, dispatched in 1902, was the first Siamese High Commissioner.The British and Siamese ratified the Bangkok Agreement in 1909, delivering Kelantan to the British. J.S. Mascon was dispatched as the first British adviser in 1909. The Japanese invasion in 1941 brought an end to the situation, whereby Kelantan was handed back to Siam during the Japanese occupation. In September 1945, Kelantan was placed under the British Military Administration. The British in London formed the Malayan Peninsula Planning Unit in 1943, and on 10 October 1945, the Malayan Union scheme was laid out before the British Parliament. A day later, Sir Harold MacMichael was sent to the Malayan Peninsula to obtain the agreement of the Malay Rulers. According to this agreement, Pulau Pinang, Melaka and 9 other Malay states were united under the Malayan Union. Malay opposition derailed the Malayan Union plan, and the Malays under Dato' Onn Jaafar's leadership formed the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) on 11 May 1946. The Malay Federation was founded on 1 February 1948, the first step towards independence, and on 31 August 1957, independence was achieved

Kelantan, literally translated as the "Land of Lightning", is a veritable, treasure trove of delights. Its rustic fishing villages, verdant padi fields and languid, palm-fridge beaches have captivated many of its visitors. Kelantan offers a world of gracious beauty and an old-world charm that few can resist.The state, which is richly endowed with natural resources, covers a land area of about 14,943 square km northeast of Peninsular Malaysia facing the South China Sea.Tucked away in the north-eastern corner of Peninsula Malaysia, Kelantan is known as the cradle of Malay culture as Kelantanese have carefully preserved their age-old customs and traditions over the centuries.

Kelantan has a population of about 1.4 million comprising Malays, Chinese, Indians, Siamese and other races. Malays make up about 94 % of the population. The population is growing at approximately 2.8 % per annum. About 75 % of the population lives in the north of the state, which covers 17 % of the state's total land area. Kelantan is governed by an opposition political party, and yet enjoys a very good relationship with the Federal Government, only goes to prove the uniqueness and maturity of Malaysian democracy. Political environment and difference between the State and Federal Government is never a problem for investment. The Federal Government determines all policies concerning investment in Malaysia. The state government serves to facilitate and accommodate investors. The people of Kelantan are renown for their warmth and friendliness.

Kelantan boasts of a historical past dating as far as 8000 B.C. Interesting, ancient Chinese historical records mention the existence of a government in the Peninsula which had ties with the Imperial Court of China. Some records give it the name "Ho-lo-tan". According to the legend, one of the earliest rulers in the region was a woman named Cik Siti Wan Kembang who lived during the 17th Century. She was succeeded by her daughter Puteri Saadong. Both women are reputed to have magical power.In the 18th century, the provinces that now form the state of Kelantan came under the powerful warrior, Long Yunus, whose descendents presently make-up the royal house of Kelantan. The state came under Thai and British influence before becoming part of the Federation of Malaya in 1957.

Here, it is not an uncommon sight to see colourful kites soaring upwards defying gravity and giant drums reverberate in unison. Wayang kulit or shadow puppet shows, a rare form of entertainment in other parts of the country, mesmerize audiences and giant top competitions provide hours of endless fun.

Kelantan's economy is primary agrarian with the main cash crops being padi, rubber and tobacco. Fishing and livestock rearing are important economic activities.Cottage industries which utilize traditional skills such as batik printing, wood craving, songket weaving and silverware is an interesting feature of the local economy. In recent years, tourism has also becoming a major money spinner.

The best place to begin for visitors wishing to experience the myriad - of attractions in the state is at Kota Bharu, the state capital. The sights and sound of this bustling town is evidence of the Kelantanese penchant for free enterprise.

The focal point of the town's activities is the Kota Bharu Central Market. Elsewhere, the artistic qualities of its people can be seen in its museums and the colourful decorated trishaws plying the streets.