The Merbok River has a rich historical significance, having been a well-known trade route for ancient merchants for over 2,800 years. Traders from various regions, including China, Arabia, Europe, and India, utilized this river, leading to the area being referred to by different names in their travel records. For instance, Chinese traders referred to Old Kedah as Chieh-Cha, Hseih-Ch’a, and Ka-cha. Indian traders called it Kadaram, Kataram, Kalagam, and Kidaram. Arab traders knew it as Qaqullah, Kalai, Kalahi, and Kallah, while European traders recognized it as Queda and Kheddah. Additionally, Java records referred to Ancient Kedah as Kede or Jere. All these names denote the location of Ancient Kedah.
The archaeological discoveries at Sungai Batu, including the port site, jetty, and shahbandar, clearly illustrate the prosperity of Ancient Kedah during that period. Traders from both the east and west used to stop in ancient Kedah to seek shelter from the monsoon winds. View of Ancient Kedah Kingdom: Interpretations Based on Archaeological Studies
Today, the Merbok River estuary has become a focal point, with the main attraction being oyster farming. It started with research by the Director of the Centre for Ocean and Coastal Studies (Cemacs), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Professor Datuk Dr. Aileen Tan Shau Hwai. As a result of continuing her research, it was passed down to the local community, Mohamad Ridzwan Ishak, who is more familiarly known as Pak Su. Pak Su has been running this farm together with his wife and children for the past 13 years. He now has seven cages housing around 160,000 oysters. According to Pak Su, an oyster takes between seven months and a year to reach maturity for sale, with the market price reaching up to RM5 each. However, for oysters to reproduce, they require unpolluted waters. "The most important thing is that this river water is not contaminated with chemicals because it causes the plankton, which they feed on, to die, and the Merbok River has already become the permanent home for oysters in this area," said Pak Su Ridzwan.
The Merbok River estuary has become a focal point for oyster farming. This development began with research conducted by Professor Datuk Dr. Aileen Tan Shau Hwai, the Director of the Centre for Ocean and Coastal Studies (Cemacs) at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). The findings of her research have since been passed down to the local community, particularly to Mohamad Ridzwan Ishak, who is better known as Pak Su. For the past 13 years, Pak Su has been operating the oyster farm alongside his wife and children.
Currently, he has seven cages that house approximately 160,000 oysters. According to Pak Su, it takes between seven months to a year for an oyster to reach maturity for sale, with market prices reaching up to RM5 each. However, for oysters to reproduce successfully, they require unpolluted waters. Pak Su emphasizes, "The most important factor is that this river water is not contaminated with chemicals, as this can kill the plankton they feed on. The Merbok River has now become a permanent home for oysters in this area.”
Pak Su hosts a diverse array of local and international visitors eager to witness the art of oyster farming firsthand. The Merbok River oysters are renowned not for their pearls, but for their exquisite fresh meat. This delicious delicacy is often savored raw, enhanced by the unique spice recipes crafted by the talented Mak Su, making for an unforgettable culinary experience.
While the benefits of raw oysters may spark debate, Can Oysters Increase Your Sex Drive? one fact stands undeniable: those who savor their unique flavor are often eager to return for a second helping. Beyond just mouthwatering oysters, Pak Su presents an unforgettable experience with a cruise boat that invites adventurers to explore the enchanting Merbok River, where vibrant mangrove forests create a breathtaking backdrop. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in nature's beauty and indulge your taste buds in this one-of-a-kind destination!
For those interested in connecting, we encourage you to reach out directly to Pak Su Ridzwan at Tiram Sungai Merbok by calling 019-513-0119, or to Mak Su Hamidah at 013-421-3253. Please keep in mind that if your call isn't answered right away, Pak Su may be navigating the beautiful Merbok River. Your patience is greatly appreciated, and Pak Su is looking forward to assisting you!
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