Kelantan Mulls Trishaw Revival as Tourism Icon

KOTA BHARU – The Kelantan state government is reviewing proposals to promote trishaw services as a tourism icon, following suggestions from the licensed tour guide association.

State tourism committee chairman Kamarudin Noor acknowledged challenges facing the service, noting only 16 trishaws remain registered with the Kota Bharu Tourism Information Centre, all operated by riders over 70 years old.

Trishaw Revival

Declining interest among younger generations has further strained sustainability. Since 2025, the state has provided RM500 monthly assistance to registered riders, alongside efforts to improve facilities such as passenger waiting areas, fare structures, and designated travel routes.

Kamarudin stressed that consensus among stakeholders, including operators, agencies, and NGOs, is crucial to preserve trishaws as part of Kelantan’s cultural heritage and tourism appeal.

Photo: Rickshaw from Thailand

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