A sun-kissed beach, gentle coconut fronds swaying in the breeze, roaring waves that constantly break upon a shore of golden sand. Time practically stands still at Tanjong Jara Resort in Dungun, Terengganu.
Carrying an identity that is “Unmistakably Malay”, this resort has been specially designed to offer a luxurious kampung lifestyle. Guests are greeted by a majestic monolith that ensures you know you are about to enter an exclusive enclave that is unmistakably five-star.
Pull up at the lobby and ready bellboys welcome you armed with smiles and a luggage cart. You are ushered for check-in after striking the gong to announce your arrival, not unlike Malay royalty of old.
It is a pleasant walk from the lobby to your room as expansive, well-manicured gardens provide a sense of tranquillity. The chirping of birds fills the air with a cheerful atmosphere, and you might even catch the odd hornbill.
When you hear a high-pitched squawk, do not be alarmed. Two male peacocks strut around displaying their plumage in full glory.
Along the pathways, salvaged antique storage pots from a sunken Chinese vessel that carried cargo dating back to the Ming Dynasty are on display.
Virtually all units have windows that face the beach. Rain or shine, you can soak in your very own bathtub, while the room has the standard-issue luxury hotel amenities: a minibar, bathrobes and slippers, an iron, a hairdryer, toiletries, plush towels, and coffee/tea-making facilities.
Dark, earthy tones used for the furniture and overall design will transport you to a bygone era in the kampung, where life was much simpler and slower-paced.
At the end of the day, you are guaranteed a good night’s rest as you sink your head comfortably into the soft pillows, while the plush mattress cradles your tired body.
There are no clocks in any of the rooms, and for good reason. You are here to get some much-needed R&R, and telling time should be the last thing on your mind.
A charmed life
The rock formations at the beach are a sight to behold, often housing hermit crabs and tiny fish when the tide is low. And when the tide does come in, the majestic spray exhilarates the senses as you revel in the wonders of nature.
While there is rubbish that washes ashore each morning, the resort staff do their best to clean up the entire beach for the guests’ comfort.
There are two swimming pools on the property, but the adults-only Teratai pool is currently closed. Enjoy a spa treatment or massage at the Spa Village, which offers numerous packages that will rejuvenate you using Malay-style techniques and herbs.
There is also a nature walk available upon request, which depends on favourable weather conditions.
The resort has two restaurants to ensure you are well fed. Di Atas Sungei offers both breakfast and dinner, while Nelayan serves lunch and – depending on the occupancy rate – dinner.
Di Atas Sungei literally sits above a river that flows straight into the South China Sea. Those hankering for freshly made roti canai will be pleased by the live-cooking station that serves a mean curry. You can even order roti planta, roti pisang or roti telur.
The buffet breakfast includes a variety of Malay kuih, laksa Terengganu and laksam, freshly fried noodles, bihun and koay teow, as well as thick and fragrant chicken curry waiting to be slathered all over your nasi lemak.
You still have freshly baked pastries, an egg station, seasonal fruits, freshly squeezed juices, yoghurt and cereals to charge up for the day ahead. Do try to catch Chef Ann there and have her regale you with stories of the dishes served.
Nelayan is located near the pool and Spa Village, and serves a variety of Asian and western selections. If you are feeling romantic and would like to have a specially prepared meal under the stars (weather permitting), opt for a private dining experience on a gazebo that overlooks the South China Sea.
Light from the bonfire and surrounding bamboo pelita raya will dance around the gazebo all night long, guaranteeing an unforgettable culinary experience.
A difficult ‘selamat jalan’
Right before you leave, you will be sent off with three strikes of the gong by the staff to signify thanks, well wishes in life, and the hope of welcoming you again.
As Tanjong Jara Resort becomes smaller in your rearview mirror when you pull away, memories of the beach, spa experience, culinary delights, and warm service will help console the wistful heart as the wanderlust bug is tamed – for now.
For more information, visit Tanjong Jara Resort’s website or contact 09-8451100.
Tanjong Jara Resort
Batu 8, Off Jalan Dungun
23000 Dungun, Terengganu
This independent review is not sponsored by Tanjong Jara Resort. The views expressed are the writer’s and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.
Edwin Kee dreamt of being a pro-gamer only to have circumstances mould him into a programmer in a past life. He has since moved on to write about consumer electronics and other topics. Check out his blog at manatau.com.