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Pontian is believed to derive its name from the Malay word 'Perhentian' which means a place of call. Its sheltered shore and its strategic location made it an ideal port of call for ancient seafarers and traders plying the Straits of Melaka.
An Arab merchant, Tuan Syed Muhamad Alsagoff was recorded to be the man behind the development of Pontian by starting large-scale estates in 1878, apparently with the blessing of Sultan Abu Bakar.
Pontian, though the smallest district, is a significant tourist destination as it is blessed with numerous tourist attractions. The proclamation of its Tanjung Piai as the southern most tip of Mainland Asia immediately positions Pontian as one of the world's few landmarks that must be visited.
The district's vast expanse of mangrove swamp is another gift of nature that should interest eco-tourists and naturalists. The wonders of the ecological system could be studied or appreciated, while the abundance of seafood made the Kukup town a converging point for seafood lover.
Pontian's peat soil is best suited for the growing of pineapples. An agricultural research centre under MARDI (Malaysia Agriculture Research and Development Institute) was set up in Pontian. An interesting outcome is the development of a new species of pineapples, the 'Josapine', an aromatic hybrid of Johor and Sarawak pineapples. Be amazed by the varied (over a hundred) species of Pineapples that are grown in MARDI, some of which are ornamentally unique.
There are other attractions awaiting tourists to this wondrous southern most tip of Mainland Asia. See for yourself!
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Kukup |
Kukup, is a well-known fishing village with most of its houses built on stilts. Since the middle of the 19th. century, Kukup has been populated by farmers and fishermen, particularly of Bugis descent. It is famous for its fish farms and several restaurants, which serve the freshest seafood dishes, cooked in various delicious and tantalising styles. You must try the signature chilli crab dish.
Several restaurants serving seafood dishes are located along the small street, close to the jetty so you can enjoy a good seafood meal with a great view of the sea. Handicraft and delicacies such as keropok, belacan and cencaluk are available here. Those who love local dishes will definitely find this place a gastronmical delight.
After a satisfying meal you can hop on any of the boats for hire, and visit the aquaculture farms or kelong where crabs and a variety of fishes are commercially bred. Within sight of the Kukup jetty lies Kukup Island, an interesting spot for a quick spin around the island on boat. Those wishing to stay overnight and explore Kukup can stay at the nearby chalet facility. |
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