Bukit Besi, formerly known as Bukit Seri Bangun was once a bustling town and home to people of different nationalities who were involved in iron ore mining activities that began in 1929.
The area was well-known for its diverse population, which includes people from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, Germany, South Africa, India, and China.
Bukit Besi native Jusof Muda, 67, said he would very much like to see the area return to its heydey, with vigorous economic and iron ore mining activities that attracted people to live there.
“There used to be a train that brought iron ore to the port, and local residents could also take it to get to Kuala Dungun. Since it is no longer there, this area has become less appealing.
“Bandar Bukit Besi has nothing to be proud of...there is nothing here except for the residential areas...if we want to go shopping, we have to travel to Kuala Dungun instead,” he told Bernama.
Another resident, Abd Jabbar Jalil, 66, said there is a need for proactive measures to be taken to bring more development to Bandar Bukit Besi in line with its municipal status.
“This place has a lot to offer, particularly in terms of history. It is one of the earliest mining sites in Terengganu and should be preserved so that future generations can learn about the history of iron ore mining in this state,” he said.
Meanwhile, according to a spokesperson for the Bukit Besi Museum, during its heyday, the local economy was vibrant and the area was populated by people of different nationalities.
“A railway station, school, police station, fire station, hospital, post office, club house, hall, and swimming pool were available at that time to facilitate the rapid pace of mining activities and the influx of people from various countries.
“At that time, mining companies also placed emphasis on the education aspect of the children of mine workers. They even built schools for them and provided the children with free textbooks, stationery, sports equipment, musical instruments and so on,” he said.
It is understood that there are still about six local and foreign companies that are actively conducting iron ore mining activities in Bukit Besi.
Source: BERNAMA News Agency