Interstate marriages involving Kelantanese folk and partners from other states are among key factors driving the influx of tourists to Kelantan, particularly during the school holidays, according to a state executive council member.
Kelantan tourism committee chairman Kamaruddin Nor said the trend not only brought visitors to attend festive or wedding ceremonies, but also encouraged them to extend their stay and holiday with their families.
“In the past, interstate marriages were quite rare, but now they have become common. These family connections have led to significant two-way travel, especially during the school holidays,” he told reporters after officiating the reopening of the Pengkalan Datu tourism market in Pengkalan Chepa today.
Kamaruddin said this has had a positive impact on the accommodation sector, with hotels and homestays recording higher bookings, thereby boosting the local economy.
He said Kelantan’s unique traditional culture has enhanced its appeal as a tourism destination. From official events to private programmes and community activities, organisers increasingly showcase Kelantan’s identity through traditional attire and cuisine.
“It has now become a trend to wear traditional clothes at various events. Without being instructed, many organisers are choosing to highlight Kelantan’s heritage, which adds value to the state’s tourism products,” he said.
He also said the state government is working closely with hotel associations, travel agencies and homestay operators to promote tourism packages in Kelantan more widely.
