Padang jerangau: The historic Mat Kilau Fort in Padang Jerangau, near Kampung Pasir Raja, has been listed in the Department of National Heritage's (JWN) inventory as a location with potential to be gazetted as a national heritage site. JWN director-general Mohamad Muda Bahadin announced this development, highlighting the fort's significance in relation to the struggle of the warrior Mat Kilau.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, further studies will be conducted by JWN to assess the fort's potential for gazettement as a heritage site. This includes evaluating its historical significance. The department plans to consult various stakeholders, including historical associations, to gather information on the writings, accounts, and history of the site to complete the assessment documents. The process for gazettement as a heritage site under the National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645) requires a recommendation and the consent of the state government.
The earthwork fort, measuring 14.6 metres wide and 17.2 metres long, is located near the Terengganu-Pahang border. Mohamad Muda noted the fort's potential for development as a tourism product if appropriate visitor facilities, such as roads, walkways, and parking areas, are provided. However, since the site has not yet been gazetted as a heritage site, JWN cannot use relevant funds for development at the location. If tourism potential is recognized, a grant application through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture can be considered for infrastructure development.
Mohamad Muda encouraged the local community, including local authorities and non-governmental organizations, to conduct regular gotong-royong activities to ensure the site remains clean and well-maintained. Earlier, over 100 participants from various government departments, agencies, NGOs, and local residents participated in a gotong-royong program.
Mat Kilau, whose real name was Muhammad Khatib Rasu Abd Salam, was a historical figure and Pahang warrior who fought against British colonial rule. He passed away on August 16, 1970, at the age of 104. He was known for his religious knowledge, having studied under several prominent religious figures and scholars.