The Malays, Chinese, Indians and the Indigenous Peoples that make up the 1.5 million population of Pahang are a perfect picture of diversity in harmony.

Co-existing peacefully, each with their own colourful pomp and pageantry, they display a tolerance and understanding born out of mutual respect for each other. It thus provides unique harmony, which continues to astound many a visitor.

The many aspects of their cultures that have nicely blended can be found in the language, beliefs, clothes, food, and  traditional games.

It would be hard indeed to fully describe the many facets of Malaysian cultures, but even your brief encounter is sufficient to reveal some of the scintillating vibrancy of Malaysia's rich and diverse heritage.

Handicrafts

If you are into handicrafts, Kampung Pandan along the alternative road from Kuantan to Kemaman, Terengganu is a-must-stop.

Here, you will find an assortment of souvenirs made from woven pandan (pandanus) leaves. Else, you may want to consider visiting Kampung Sungai Karang where you can find other items like kites and handicrafts made from seashells.

Brought to the state by Bugis refugees fleeing the Dutch occupation of Makassar in Indonesia during the 1700s, Pahang Silk is today weaved at the Tenun Pahang DiRaja Development Centre in Kampung Sungai Soi near Kuantan and Pulau Keladi in Pekan. At these centres, you get a chance to watch the actual silk weaving process, unique of Kampung Mengkasar in Pekan, where the Malays of the Bugis descendant refined their art over four centuries.

Batik printing cottages can be found at Kampung Beserah and Tanah Putih. Apart from watching the printing or painting process, you could try your hand at designing your very own batik.