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Being a multi-racial state of Malays, Chinese, Indians and Thais, Kedah is naturally multi-cultural. Although Islam is the national religion, freedom of worship is guaranteed. Bahasa Malaysia is the national language. However English is widely spoken. The north western state of Kedah in peninsula Malaysia
covers an area in excess of 9000 sq km and it shares borders with Penang,
Perlis, Perak and Thailand to the north.
Kedah is commonly known as the rice bowl of Malaysia because
it contributes one third of national rice production. However its largely agricultural
economy is not limited to rice production as it supports other agricultural
products such as rubber and Oil Palm.
The state capital of Kedah is Alor Star (also known as Alor
Setar), the seat of government for the state is based here and the Alor Star
landmark building is the unmistakeable Alor Setar Tower which provides
breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding area.Just to the north of
Alor Star where the north-south highway ends is the Kedah border town of Bukit
Kayu Hitam which is a duty free centre and gateway to Southern Thailand.
Kedah has a diverse economy that also includes manufacturing
and high technology industries in Kulim and Sungai Petani as well as the
flourishing tourism industry inclusive of the island of Langkawi.
Travel to Langkawi and you will enjoy an enchanting
archipeligo of 99 islands that is shrouded in legends and myths. Langkawi's
serene beauty extols its idyllic setting justifying its reputation as a
paradise island that is popular with tourists from every corner of the world.On
June 1st 1997 all 99 islands covering an area of 10,000 hectares that make up
the archipelago of Langkawi was declared an Geopark by Unesco. Langkawi has now
joined an esteemed list of 52 Geoparks worldwide.
The cultural diversity of Kedah is best reflected in its tradition, the minute details of architecture and life style. Among the local traditional songs and dances which are reflective of daily lives of the common people are Tarian Cinta Sayang, Lagu-lagu Berendoi, Wayang Kulit, etc.
The Silat, which is a form of traditional Malay self-defence, is also popular in Kedah. It comes in various forms and normally performed at various occasions such as weddings and functions.
The best starting point to explore the cultural heritage of Kedah is Alor Setar itself, the state's capital. The numerous fine, old buildings such as Balai Besar, Balai Seni Negeri, Masjid Zahir, Courthouse, General Post Office defined the atmosphere of colonial rule and representing one of the oldest landmarks of Alor Setar.
An insight into Kedah's rich cultural heritage can be sampled by visiting the State's Museum. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, fine paintings and a wide range of historical relics. Being the oldest state, Kedah has plenty of these memorable, precious antiques on display.
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