History
Perlis is closely related with and originally was a part of neighbouring state of Kedah. After the Siamese conquered Kedah in 1821, the British, with the intention of securing their interests in nearby Perak, negotiated the 1826 Burney and Low Treaties which resulted in formal relations being established with the Malay states of Kedah and Perak with the kingdom of Siam, their nominal overlord.
However, the exiled Kedah Sultan, Ahmad Tajuddin, was not returned to his throne. Sultan Ahmad and his armed supporters then fought on for his restoration for over twelve years (1830-1842). In 1842, the exiled Sultan finally agreed to accept Siamese terms, and was restored to his throne of Kedah.

However, the Siamese separated Perlis and made it into a separate principality and a vassal to Bangkok. Syed Hussain Jamalulail, of Arab descent and grandson of the Sultan of Kedah, became the first Raja of Perlis. His descendants still rule Perlis, but as Rajas, instead of as Sultans.

With the signing of the Bangkok Agreement between the British and Siamese on

9 July 1909, as with Kedah, the British took control of Perlis. The first British Resident or advisor to Perlis was Meadow Frost. With the Japanese invasion in 1941, Perlis was returned to Siam by the Japanese as a reward for Siam's

alliance with Japan. This brief annexation ended with the Japanese surrender. After World War II,  Perlis returned to British rule until it became part of the Malayan Union, and the Federation of Malaysia in 1957.

Since 2000, the Raja or hereditary monarch has been Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin,

who is concurrently the Yang Di Pertuan Agong (King) of Malaysia.

 

People & Culture

There is a predominance of Malay and Thai influence here. The people of Perlis indulge in traditional games, dances and other interesting "hand-me-downs" entertainment. This is evident in its  colourful music and dance performances such as the Tarian Canggung (a traditional post harvest celebration dance) and the

Tarian Terinai (traditional dance for royal ceremonies).

The population was estimated at 200,000 with an ethnic breakdown as

78% Malay, 17% Chinese, and 5% Indian and Others.

Economy

Generally, the economy in Perlis is made up of agriculture, fishing and the forest industry. Perlis is also home to the largest sugar cane plantations in the country. Asides from sugar cane, rubber is also extensively cultivated while mango and watermelon are the state's main form of fruit produce. Although still not highly

active in it, the state has slowly moved towards development and on medium-scale industrial and manufacturing activities

Shop & Dine

LOCAL CUISINE

n Perlis, a visitor can choose to eat at either luxurious fine dining spots, air-conditioned restaurants or go casual by dining al fresco at the hawker centers.

You will be pleased to know that prices are kept to a reasonable rate whilst

service is both efficient and courteous.

Perlis is probably the state that serves the best tom yam in the country, thanks to its neighboring relations to Thailand. Besides Thai dishes, you must also try the exotic traditional Malay fare, Chinese cuisine and Indian meal.

‘Laksa Perlis’ is a homemade thick, rich, spicy, and creamy fish gravy seafood noodle, its ingredients can be combined according to you preference.

Kuala Perlis is also known for its mouth-watering and easily available seafood.

Not only is seafood fresh, but it is also relatively cheaper than in other parts of

the country.

HANDICRAFTS & SHOPPING

Padang Besar and Bukit Kayu Hitam, the border towns are best for economical buys. Padang Besar is always alive with shoppers as many varieties of goods especially popular products leather goods, garments and household items. These are cheaply manufactured in Thailand and sold in town. Beyond the rail tracks is Pekan Siam - a bargain hunters' paradise. Besides agricultural goods, duty free shopping is also available in Padang Besar.
The town is filled with all shades and designs of textiles, footwear, handicrafts, decorative items, foodstuff, souvenirs, fruits and much more.
 

As for Handicrafts, visit the Perlis Craft Cultural Complex.

Basket weaving is worth checking out here. Look for the mengkuang (screwpine) and pandan (pandunas) leaves that are woven into baskets, mats and the quirky, conical tudung saji (food covers).

Getting There

The main entry points to Perlis are usually Padang Besar and Bukit Kayu Hitam, which is near the Thai border in the north. Alternatively, you can get to Kuala Lumpur first and then make your way to the state. If not, you may go for another option, which includes taking a trip to Penang Island or Langkawi first,

then hopping on to Perlis.