The History of Telok Pelandok Village & Homestay D’Pelandok Best

Introduction

Every village has its own story. Behind every name and every small lane lies a legacy of struggle, sacrifice, and a spirit of togetherness.
Telok Pelandok Village — a coastal settlement in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan — is more than just a place to live. It stands as a symbol of the pioneers’ perseverance, the community’s strength, and the living heritage of the Malay Archipelago that continues to thrive today.

This book documents the journey of Telok Pelandok Village since the early 20th century — from the arrival of 22 pioneers from Java Island to its transformation into a modern village that has become a national model for community-based tourism through Homestay D’Pelandok Best.
It is not merely a history, but a story of life — about land, people, and the enduring spirit passed down from one generation to the next.

The Founding of the Village (1900–1939)

Around the year 1900, a group of 22 migrants from Java Island, Indonesia, crossed the Straits of Malacca in search of a new life in the Malay Peninsula.
They were led by Abdullah bin Ter, a visionary leader who saw the potential of the coastal land of Port Dickson as a suitable place for settlement.

Upon arrival, they cleared the thick jungle and built 22 small wooden houses along the beach. Despite living in modest conditions, their strong spirit of cooperation and unity created a peaceful and prosperous community.

One of their main livelihoods was traditional sea salt production — a heritage skill brought from their homeland in Java. Beneath a tamarind tree that still stands to this day, they would boil seawater in large cauldrons to produce white salt, which became the village’s main source of income.

The name “Telok Pelandok” (meaning Deer Bay) originated from the frequent sightings of small deer (mouse deer) that roamed the nearby forests. The name has remained ever since, symbolizing the village’s origins and the pride of its people.

The Pioneers of Telok Pelandok

They were not just land settlers — they were the founders of a small civilization that laid the foundation for the lives we lead today.

Early Administration & Leadership (1940–1949)

In 1940, Abdullah bin Ter was appointed as the first Village Head. Under his leadership, a local administrative system began to form, rooted in the spirit of mutual cooperation (gotong-royong) and community consensus.

Although there was no electricity or paved roads, the villagers lived in unity — farming, gardening, and fishing together.
They would gather under large trees or in small prayer houses (surau) to discuss village matters. Every decision was made collectively, reflecting the democratic and communal values that still define Telok Pelandok’s society today.

Community & Economic Growth (1950–1990)

After Malaysia achieved independence, Telok Pelandok Village experienced rapid development. Agriculture and fisheries became the backbone of its economy.
Villagers cultivated coconuts, bananas, and various cash crops, while fishermen brought life to the shore with their daily catch of fish, prawns, and clams — the main sources of livelihood.

During this period, basic infrastructure was developed — schools, prayer halls, roads, and a health clinic. The spirit of cooperation was evident in every project, as villagers worked hand in hand regardless of background.
From this unity emerged a new generation — better educated, progressive, and open to change.

Modernization Era & Population Growth (1990–Present)

As the modern era arrived, Telok Pelandok’s population grew to over 2,500 residents from 465 families.
Although many young people have migrated to cities in search of work, the village remains a cherished home — a place everyone returns to during festive seasons like Hari Raya or family gatherings.

The passage of time has not faded traditional values. The spirit of togetherness, respect, and compassion among neighbors remains deeply rooted.
And from these very traditions emerged a new initiative that placed Telok Pelandok on the world’s tourism map — Homestay D’Pelandok Best.