China town&Turtle Alley in Kuala Terengganu

China town or Kampung Cina is a long stretch of road called Jalan Kampung Cina. The place China is located near Pasar Payang (Central Market).

This town is first established by the Chinese community in the late 19^th century. It was once a hub for commercial activities.

The main  entrance of China town

The Chinese built the traditionally designed shop houses according to their place of origin in Mainland China. The buildings have been declared a heritage site by the United Nation’s UNESCO under its World Monument Watch Programme to ensure beautification and preservation of this pre-colonial heritage significant.

The Chinese have been living harmoniously with the majority Malays in the state. They blend with the local culture and heritage, speak fluent local dialect and share the likings of traditional delicacies while retaining their identity.

Souvenir shops, restaurants, electronic and grocery shops lined the colourful buildings. It is also home to two grand temple or toapekongs, the Ho Ann Kiong and the Tien Hou Kong.

Temple Ho Ann Kiong

 While walking along the Chinatown road, there was a lane in between a row of shop houses called Lorong Penyu (Turtle Alley).

At this lane, we could find the story about 'The Little Turtle Messenger' named Maya. The story was written by Chan Eng Heng. Have fun reading this story! How she becomes known as The Little Messenger and would u like to be a turtle messenger too?.