Together with Perlis, Perak, and Kelantan, this northwest state shares a common border with Thailand in the north.

Known as the "Rice Bowl of Malaysia", the Kedah-Perlis rice plains produce more than half of the country's home grown rice supply. It is a land of unique natural beauty, surrounded by much greenery. The terrain of Kedah is considered 'flat' with "kampungs" (villages) scattered over "padi" (rice) fields. One will be able to feast their eyes on lush green padi fields enhanced by traditional Malay houses, coconut palms, local fruit trees, and rolling hills. The people of Kedah are generally padi planters with most living in kampungs next to their fields.

As one of the oldest states in Malaysia, Kedah has a population of approximately 1 million people, which is made up of various races. Kedah is very much a Malay state although traces of Thai or Achinese ancestry can still be seen.

Although Kedah is Malaysia's "rice bowl", the state is currently undertaking new fields, mainly industrial and tourism. Industrial estates have sprung up in Alor Setar, Kuala Kedah, and Sungai Petani while the government has started developing and promoting tourist facilities.

Alor Setar is the capital of Kedah and the seat of government and royalty.

Langkawi, the most well-known island on the peninsula, falls under Kedah's jurisdiction Other districts include Kubang Pasu, Padang Terap, Kota Setar, Sik, Yan, Kuala Muda, Baling. Kulim, Bandar Baharu and Pendang.