The Islamic Cemetery of Paya Bunga here will be transformed into a garden cemetery.

Chief Executive Officer of the Majlis Agama Islam and Adat Melayu Terengganu (MAIDAM), M Rozi Dugan said the project involves an area of 5.2 hectares, it is a pilot project on the East Coast.

He said it was the concept of "wakaf" and would be managed by the Terengganu Religious Affairs Department (JHEAT).

"Fully furnished with management offices, chairs, waiting areas, toilets, parking, garden furniture, and landscaping.

"The existing 16,000 lots, children (6,000 lots) and 200 lots will be kept at the same location," he said.

He said this at the launch of the Paya Bunga Islamic Cemetery Waves at Primula Hotel here this afternoon.

Also present at the ceremony was Terengganu Chief Minister Dato 'Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar.

According to him, what is interesting is that the tombs will be improved to look more organized and attractive.

"The deceased's beneficiary can get all the information including the burial site through the e-Pusara system.

"The project aims to provide a comfortable environment and systematic management as well as the beauty of the cemetery which previously was an unorganized and messy cemetery," he said.

He said that if left untouched by the bushes, it would have encouraged irresponsible individuals to make the area a dumping ground for drugs, hangouts, and garbage disposal sites.

"That factor prompted MAIDAM to upgrade the location as a grave in the park," he said.