Yes, Bentong.
And why not? We've never really explored this bit of Pahang before, so it was decided that we'd make a day-trip there a couple of weeks ago.
Googled a bit before the trip and a couple of things caught my eye. The first was a legendary makan place that serves lemang with rendang every single day of the week. Have also seen it on various makan programs before and thought we should finally give it a shot.
Gents, here is Lemang To'ki!
The other stop that I had planned to make was to Bentong Gallery. But before that, here's a short version of the history of Bentong:
"Originally known as Kapong, the town at the confluence of Repas and Perting rivers grew into a mining hub after tin was discovered in those waterways. Locals began calling the ridge “Ban Untung” (“profitable ridge”), which eventually evolved into “Bentong” . In the late 19th century, with the arrival of Chinese tin miners and notably Mr. Loke Yew, Bentong transformed into a thriving economic centre. Loke Yew scaled tin mining into a major industry, spurring broader commercial and agricultural activity that shaped the town’s growth . The district was officially administered separately in 1919 and later elevated to municipal status in 2005 ."
What's interesting at Bentong Gallery? Housed in beautifully restored 100‑year‑old shophouses once owned by Loke Yew, it offers a fascinating, free-to-enter journey through the town’s past . It features three thematic halls:
Hall 1: Chronicles early development—tin mining’s rise under Loke Yew, historic photographs of economic life, and the origin of Bentong’s name.
Hall 2: Showcases tourism information, with large maps pinpointing town landmarks and nearby attractions.
Hall 3: Honours the contributions of prominent figures such as Pahang’s Sultans, former MPs, and local industrialists.
Beyond the exhibits, there’s a cozy café (BG Café) to relax with a drink, and BG Store, offering local souvenirs such as Bentong ginger products, soya sauce, and homemade ice‑cream in flavours like Musang King durian or red bean.
Also, dropped by to visit the main masjid here:
And of course when you're in Bentong and it's durian season, kenalah makan sebiji dua to satisfy the craving!
Heading home, we made a stop for coffee, up on the hills of Janda Baik. Seeing it was a weekday, we basically had the place all to ourselves!
Will we be back? Oh yes, indeed. Insya Allah.
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