Kelantan: The Kelantan state government launched the Gold Month 2026 programme as an initiative to promote local gold as a tourism product and raise public awareness about its importance as a store of value.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Tourism, Culture, Arts and Heritage Committee chairman Datuk Kamaruddin Md Nor stated that the programme, which runs through March in conjunction with Ramadan and Aidilfitri, has the potential to attract tourists to gold businesses in the state. Areas such as Siti Khadijah Market and Tuan Padang Bazaar are popular gold business centres and will be promoted as destinations to shop for gold. He noted that while there were no plans to designate any area as gold zones, the state government will intensify promotions at existing areas to enhance their appeal to tourists.

Kamaruddin highlighted that in terms of security, thousands of transactions take place at Siti Khadijah Market, creating a vibrant atmosphere without the need for strict security controls. This reflects a harmonious and confident environment in Kelantan. He also mentioned that gold prices are determined by certain bodies and are subject to current market conditions, so the state government cannot set or lower prices. However, they could suggest that operators offer more competitive designs and rates throughout the programme.

The programme is expected to serve as a platform to strengthen the local gold industry and boost economic activities during festive seasons.