Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge

The drawbridge opened in 2019 across the mouth of the Terengganu river, linking the city to Seberang Takir, and it is a genuine bascule - the central span lifts to let vessels through, which is unusual in Malaysia and is the reason for the two tall towers carrying the machinery. The towers are treated architecturally with Islamic-influenced detailing, contain lifts and viewing galleries, and a skywalk runs between them above the deck, giving a view over the river mouth, the fishing harbour and the city. After dark the whole structure is lit in changing colours and there is a scheduled lighting sequence, which is when local families come out to walk it. The bridge has become the city's signature image, having replaced the older ferry crossing.

What you actually see

• A working lifting span - a bascule bridge, unusual in the country.
• Two detailed towers - carrying the machinery, with lifts and galleries.
• A skywalk between them - a view over the river mouth and harbour.
• A night lighting sequence - the bridge lit in changing colours after dark.

When to go

All year; evenings for the lighting. An hour or two.

Honest expectations

The lift only operates for shipping and is not a scheduled show - seeing it is luck. The skywalk charges separately and has limited hours. It is exposed and hot by day.

Nearby

Chinatown, the Central Market and the Terengganu waterfront are close.