Showing posts with label Terengganu's Popular Island. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Terengganu's Popular Island. Show all posts
Something old, something new
Pulau Duyung
Pulau Duyung
A trip to Pulau Duyong turns into a rush through history for ALAN TEH LEAM SENG as he hops from a 90-year-old fort to traditional boatmakers and a modern marina resort.
If walls could talk, who knows what wonderful stories about Pulau Duyong’s past will be revealed?
External view of a duplex chalet at theHeritage Bay Club Marina and Resort
Beautiful blooms add character to the chaletsDRIVING along Sultan Mahmud Bridge was a breeze despite the hot tropical heat. Traffic was heavy but smooth flowing.
I soon came up to a sign directing me to turn towards my destination, Pulau Duyong or Mermaid Island, one of Terengganu’s most happening tourist destinations today, thanks to the annual international sailing event, the Monsoon Cup.This year’s competition starts tomorrow, and already my mind has vivid pictures of sail boats taking to the raging South China Sea fronting the island.
All’s ‘Well’
My first stop was the Duyong Old Fort which showcased traditional Terengganu architecture. Along the way, I passed several houses that still had wells near the steps leading up to their homes.Some 50 years ago, most of the villagers in Pulau Duyong depended on wells and the Terengganu River for their daily water supply.
Curiosity got the better of me and I took a peek inside one well. What a pleasant surprise it was to find water in it still!Just then, an elderly man in a sarong came up and threw in a bucket to draw water. His toothless grin was friendly. After washing his feet, he went up the staircase and entered what must be his home. The metal bucket that he left hanging by the side of the house looked aged and was badly dented. “It must have served him well through the years,” I thought.
Fort Without Fortifications?
Duyong Old Fort was just a short distance away.
At first glance, it looked like a traditional Malay palace. I was especially attracted to the intricately carved woodwork and layout. The imposing structure, sheltered by nine roofs, is said to resemble the designs of several types of traditional Terengganu homes like Bujang Berpeleh, Lima Bungkus and Potong Belanda.
Although the name conjures up an image of strong fortifications and ramparts, the primary objective for building the fort was not to ward off marauding invaders. Built some 90 years ago during a period of peace and prosperity, the fort was erected to showcase Terengganu’s rich architectural heritage.Strong Corinthian and Egyptian influences add to its artistic allure. A few historians are of the opinion that the person responsible for the building, Datuk Biji Sura, was so influenced by visiting tradesmen to Kuala Terengganu that he decided to incorporate their art into his design of the fort.
Despite its age, the white walls hardly showed any sign of wear. Perhaps this was due to the innovative use of clay, sand, eggs, honey and lime (from cockle shells) for construction at the time by the rich and famous. I remember once reading with scepticism, in Noel Barber’s Tanamera, about the use of this technique to produce plaster that was as smooth and strong as marble. Perhaps there was some truth to the tale after all.Datuk Biji Sura was the cousin of Terengganu’s first Menteri Besar. He was well educated and began his career as a clerk at the Terengganu Court. He was later appointed a member of the Royal Council with additional duties as chief Syariah Court judge and commissioner of Religious Affairs.Boat Builders After soaking in the illustrious history of the island’s past, I made my way to see an industry that had become synonymous with Pulau Duyong.
No visit to the island would be complete without a visit to its renowned shipyards. The island has gained worldwide recognition as a centre for traditional boat making. The boats are built without the use of blueprints or plans!I watched in awe as the local craftsmen went about their task. Everything was done by hand and surprisingly, there were few modern equipment used. I approached several builders taking a break nearby.What they told me was simply amazing. It’s true indeed that they don’t use a single blueprint or plan to build a vessel, be it a giant trawler or a luxury yacht destined for foreign shores!
All a master craftsman needs to know is the type and size of vessel. He then draws on his vast experience and photographic memory to begin his work. Even in this day and age, well-worn traditional tools like axe, saw, plane and hammer are the main tools of the trade.Before returning to their work after the short break, one of the craftsmen pointed in the direction Kuala Terengganu and said “Monsoon Cup”.
I knew immediately that he was referring to the Heritage Bay Club Marina and Resort, which incidentally was my final stop for the day.Home of the Monsoon CupLeaving Duyong Old Fort and the traditional boat builders, I drove towards the Heritage Bay Club Marina & Resort with its spanking new clubhouse, chalets and state of the art yachting facilities.Along the way, I had the strangest feeling of being in a time capsule with the entire history of Pulau Duyong moving fast forward at lightning speed.
I was now heading back to the future!The Heritage Bay Club Marina & Resort was established in conjunction with the inaugural Monsoon Cup in 2005 to promote Terengganu as a world acclaimed yachting venue.
It offers water related activities like river cruises, sail tours and regattas and conducts training for community groups, corporate organisations and the general public.I headed for the Ulek Mayang Restaurant to quench my thirst and get a chance to rest my travel weary feet. Here, I enjoyed stunning views of Kuala Terengganu town and the South China Sea from its ultra modern dining area.
Even the partitions separating each table were shaped like sails!The food had interesting local names like Pulau Redang Special (foot-long chicken sausage bun), Heritage Bay Club Lekor Fried Rice with fried fish cake, Monsoon Laksa and Nasi Lemak Traditional Seberang Takir.Fed, rehydrated and rested, I went to the marina, hoping to catch a glimpse of the prize-winning boats to be used in the Monsoon Cup competition. I was not disappointed. There they were, a pair of boats inscribed “Richard Mille”, bobbing gently by the pontoon.With great satisfaction, I bade farewell to Pulau Duyong.
By then, the evening sky was a picture-perfect backdrop for the island which embodied both Terengganu’s illustrious past as well as the promise of a bright future.Getting ThereBy Air: Pulau Duyong lies a short distance from Kuala Terengganu, the capital and largest town in the State.
The opening of the Sultan Mahmud Bridge in 1990 not only allowed easy access to the island but also spurred its growth from a sleepy fishing village to a tourist destination. Kuala Terengganu is about 50 minutes by air from Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia make several daily flights to Kuala Terengganu.
Pulau Duyong is about 20 minutes from the airport.By road: Travellers from Kuala Lumpur can head east towards Kuantan via the Karak Highway. It takes about three hours to reach Kuantan. From there, the smooth driving and scenic coastal route will lead straight to Kuala Terengganu.
Those from the north, including Penang, should take the East-West Highway and head towards Kota Baru. From here, take the coastal road and you’d be in Kuala Terengganu in no time at all. From the south, including Johor and Singapore, drive along the North-South Expressway and exit at Yong Peng. From there, travel along the main thoroughfare to Labis and Segamat. Just follow the road signs from Segamat to Kuantan.
From there, it is smooth driving all the way to Kuala Terengganu.
By Sea:
Those intending to approach Pulau Duyong by sea should note that its position is Lat 05° 20.3´ N Long. 103° 085´ E. The Pulau Duyong Light Beacon flashes green (3s) while the Kuala Terengganu Light Beacon flashes quick white. Communication is via VHF listening on Ch. 16 and Single Side Band (SSB) on frequency 8124.00 KHz.
Accommodation
The Heritage Bay Club Marina and Resort offers comfortable chalet-style accommodation. There are three categories of chalets: Cemara (duplex), Teratak (executive suite) and Serambi (deluxe room). Guests have a choice of dining either at the Mayang Sari Restaurant or at the Terengganu House poolside lounge.
For further information and reservation, contact The Heritage Bay Club Marina & Resort, Pulau Duyong, 21300 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu. Tel: 09-627 7888 Fax: 09-622 9903. E-mail: info@heritagebayclub.com.
Website: http://www.heritagebayclub.com/
Must Do
Interesting sights are best appreciated on foot.
Bring ample drinking water and wear comfortable walking shoes. Wide brimmed hats will offer a respite from the tropical sun.In the village, watch the villagers go about their daily activities including drawing water from ancient wells. Then visit the Duyong Old Fort. Look out for its exquisite woodcarvings especially on the veranda. The boat building workshops are a must visit.Walk around the marina to see the racing boats on display. Along the way, stop and enjoy the bracing sea breeze and stunning views of Kuala Terengganu town across the Terengganu River. Pictures by ALAN TEH LEAM SENG
RM160 escapade: Island on a budget (Perhentian ISLAND)
You don't need to be rich to holiday on a South China Sea island. For a paltry sum, PUTRI ZANINA finds a slice of paradise in Pulau Perhentian Kecil.
ALL you need is just RM160 and you can escape to a world-class island. How? Well, travel on the cheap, like backpackers do. Your destination? Pulau Perhentian Kecil, off the coast of Terengganu and well known all over the world as a backpackers’ haven.
Lonely Planet, the popular guidebook for those who travel on a shoestring budget, describes the island as having “one of the best backpacker beaches in mainland Southeast Asia”. It’s not surprising then to see a young international crowd, mostly singles, converging on the island, turning it into a small global village. Here, everyone gets into island mode – relaxing under the sun and sinking gently into the tranquility of this heavenly spot with its warm, welcoming sea.
Sins & Families
That morning, when our boat sped towards the island from the jetty at Kuala Besut, our boatman enquired whether we were going to the big island or the small island. “The small one,” we told him, referring to Perhentian Kecil, one of two islands that make up Pulau Perhentian. The big one, Perhentian Besar, is separated from the little one by just 10 minutes by boat. He smiled, his yellow-tainted teeth shining against the bright sunlight. “Itu pulau maksiat,” he said, his voice rising above the roar of the engine. We smiled at him knowingly. We knew that some locals dubbed Perhentian Kecil as the “island of vice (maksiat)” where singles and the “single-at-heart” meet, mingle and party.
The boatman then told us that locals prefer Perhentian Besar. “It is suitable for families. You can find more comfortable lodging there. Only two of you travelling together?” he enquired, looking at us as he squinted against the sun. Because he was such a nosy character, we gingerly steered him away from personal stuff and into small talk about how beautiful the sea was. And beautiful it was indeed, the blue-green sea with water glinting in the sunlight. The sweeping view of sky and sea, punctuated with little boats in the horizon, was nothing short of dazzling.
Village Ambience
About 30 minutes later, we approached the shore of Perhentian Besar where half the number of passengers in the boat, all locals, got off. The rest of us, 10 altogether, including a motley group of western backpackers, would be going on to the little island. Barely rising from above the waves, a gentle slope of white sand beach festooned with coconut palms and casuarina trees loomed into view. Our boat stopped not too far from the beach.
Almost on cue, several little boats sped towards us. These would ferry us to the shore. When we finally stepped on land, we hung on to our backpacks and walked along the beach under the searing sun. Thirsty and exhausted, we stopped at the nearest chalet. Tucked against a rocky headland in the southeastern side of the island, the wooden shacks of the Lemon Grass Chalets, well shaded among trees, beckoned like a cool oasis. It looked like a small village with traditional Malay houses built on stilts.
We decided to book a chalet there. The rate was unbelievably low. Only RM35 for a chalet for two! Each chalet has a veranda. Our neighbours, two caucasian girls clad in batik sarong tied over their bikinis, were within hearing shot! They had a ready smile when we waved and responded with a cheerful “hello!” Once inside the chalet, however, we couldn’t wait to get out! It was steaming hot inside and we couldn’t switch on the table fan as electricity was available only from 7pm to 7am.
There was a double bed with a thin mattress covered with, thankfully, a clean sheet. That was all but hey, we couldn’t expect more for the meagre amount we paid. A common bath area and the toilets are located outside. Rainwater is collected in barrels and this is used for washing, and even bathing, when the piped water runs low. Owned by Ma Hussin Yusof, Lemon Grass has been in operation for the last nine years.
There are 16 units of chalets, occupied mainly by foreigners. “Only about five per cent are locals,” said the reception staff. A quick glance through the guest-book showed that the guests were mainly students from England and other parts of Europe. We were told that some have stayed on the island for over a month. A few even worked part time at local sundry shops and snorkelling/diving centres to raise money before they moved on to other places. A few have even settled down here, marrying locals or staying with adopted families.
Famous Long Beach
On the island, the great outdoors are everyone’s playground. The action is all out there, especially over at the Long Beach. It’s the most famous and the longest stretch of beach on the island. Hardly anyone calls it by its local name, Pantai Pasir Panjang. Lazy chairs and colourful umbrellas dot the sparkling white sand beach.
If you’re taking a stroll along the beach, you may find it hard to keep your eyes “straight” ahead. But try you must, as it is rude to stare at the skimpily clad men and women sunbathing and relaxing under the sun. Here, the code of conduct is “don’t stare, judge or comment”. Just smile and if you feel like it, strike up a conversation and ask a few friendly questions.
Despite the many people on the beach, you can still find your own spot of privacy. Why, even white belly eagles seem tame and often land on a quiet spot here. Lining the beach are rustic little beach cafes and restaurants with wooden poles and nipah roofs. Buoys, flags and batik sarongs hanging from the roofs or hung on poles and walls add colour to the lazy island ambience. Equally enchanting are the names of some of the drinking joints, eateries and chalets – Matahari (sun), Symphony, Moonlight, Panorama and D’Lagoon, all of which add to the touch of romance in the air.
Do Not Disturb
We spent the afternoon sipping the island’s specialty drink, coconut shake — coconut milk or santan blended with ice and vanilla ice cream and served in a tall glass. Just perfect for chilling out in the hot afternoon. We gazed at the turquoise-blue waters, watching others bathe in the sea or set out in boats for a spot of snorkelling and diving. The surrounding waters are protected areas so there’s a thriving marine life and healthy coral gardens to admire. The young crowd on the beach was oblivious to others. Hours passed with many of them just lying on lazy chairs or on towels spread on the sand. Reading, sunbathing, sleeping or having quiet chat over cool drinks – it was each to his or her own private indulgence. Very little broke the peace of the quiet moments except for the occasional sounds of boats passing by.
Lots Of Green
For a change of scene, we trekked the hilly, lightly forested interior towards the western side of the island. Well-posted signs directed us along the trail from Long Beach to the tiny and pretty Coral Bay or Aur Bay on the western part. It was an easy 15-minute walk along footpaths through the jungle. The highest point with tall trees accorded us a peek at the sea, craggy mountainside and picturesque chalets tucked among pockets of greens. Much of the island remains shrouded in greenery, rocky land and cliffs surrounding the bays and inlets. These are home to birds, monitor lizards and bees humming among flowery bushes. Coral Bay has a small strip of beach and not too far away is the Sunset Beach. The best time to be there is obviously when the sun is going down. Watching the white sand turning gold and amber as the sun went down below the horizon made our day.
Party Time!
Walking back to Long Beach, we saw lights twinkling on the beachfront. When the sun goes down, the tempo goes up. Night is definitely not the time to retire to the chalets and catch some sleep. It is time to party! There was music and, if anyone chose, there was dancing. Certainly, there was a lot of merrymaking, drinking and dining. Beach parties are one of the island’s attractions. But we saw no evidence of purportedly “wild” scenes of drunken people getting rowdy or couples smooching openly. Instead, everyone was having a good time, eating and drinking and listening to music that went on till the wee hours.
Feeling Right At Home
Sleep came very hard but we managed to knock off for maybe two to three hours. At the crack of dawn, we were back on the beach. At that time, the island was totally seductive, the water inviting. We took a dip and found the water warm and wonderfully soothing. We had the beach all to ourselves while the rest of the island slept on. The rocky cliffs seemed so familiar then and we felt so comfortably at home. Yes, in a way we did as I am sure so many others must have felt too. But for now, we were all cocooned in our own beautiful dreams on this island paradise.
How Much
The estimated budget of RM160 covers the cost for one person on 2D/1N stay (twin sharing RM17.50 each) in a budget chalet, return bus fare Kuala Lumpur-Kuala Besut jetty (RM14), return speed boat fare Kuala Besut jetty-Pulau Perhentian Kecil (RM60), return small boat transfer (RM4), entrance fee to the island, which is within a marine park (RM5) and meals for two days (RM60).
If you travel by express train from Kuala Lumpur, you will need to pay more. Economy seat on train (RM56 return) and taxi fare from the train station in Wakaf Baru in Kelantan to Kuala Besut (about RM80 return). If you want to snorkel or dive, set aside another RM40 for the trip and RM65 to RM90 per dive. Bring more cash for contingencies and if you want to splurge a little.
Where To Stay
Long Beach: Lemon Grass Chalets, Matahari Chalets, Chempaka Chalets and Panorama Chalets for back to basic lodging. Bubu Long Beach Resort offers a more comfortable stay.
Coral Bay: Fatimah Chalets, Maya Beach Resort and Aur Bay Chalets. There are many other chalets that charge from RM10 for dormitory-style accommodation to over RM270 for room with air-conditioning and bathroom.
Most chalets don’t accept advance booking and they are fully occupied most of the time. Plan to arrive early at the island to check for room availability. Bring along a tent in case all rooms are fully booked, especially during peak season. For details, contact local travel agents offering tours to Perhentian.
Two of these are Kuala Besut Travel & Tours (09-697 4948) or Ping Anchorage Travel & Tours (09-626 2020). Lemon Grass Chalets can be reached by calling 019-938 3893/012-900 8393.
What To Eat
Beach cafes and restaurants offer both local and western fare. You can get some fairly good western food as eateries there cater mostly to westerners. Western breakfast (toast and pancakes, from RM3 to RM6), sandwiches RM4.50 to RM6, main dishes like spaghetti and rice dishes (from RM7) and barbecue (from RM10).
How To Get There
Pulau Perhentian in the South China Sea is located 20km off the coast of Terengganu. The main gateway is Kuala Besut, 108km from Kuala Terengganu (about two hours) and 54km from Kota Baru or Wakaf Baru, Kelantan (about one hour). Boat ride from Kuala Besut: 30 minutes by speedboat and 1 1/2 hours by slow boat.
Best Time To Go
March to September, but avoid school holidays and public holidays. The island is closed during the monsoon season from October to February.
What’s On
Mark August in your calendar for the annual Perhentian Island Challenge. This year, it will be from August 24 to 26. It is a multi-sport endurance race that includes swimming, kayaking, trail/beach running and water orienteering. Now into its fourth year, the challenge this year offers cash prizes totalling RM50,000.
There is a new category for first-timers in addition to the Elite category. Be there to watch participants from all over the world in keen competition. Entertainment, traditional games and food fair are added attractions.
For details, contact info@perhentianislandchallenge.com or call 013-210 9283 or 03-2142 6688.
You don't need to be rich to holiday on a South China Sea island. For a paltry sum, PUTRI ZANINA finds a slice of paradise in Pulau Perhentian Kecil.
ALL you need is just RM160 and you can escape to a world-class island. How? Well, travel on the cheap, like backpackers do. Your destination? Pulau Perhentian Kecil, off the coast of Terengganu and well known all over the world as a backpackers’ haven.
Lonely Planet, the popular guidebook for those who travel on a shoestring budget, describes the island as having “one of the best backpacker beaches in mainland Southeast Asia”. It’s not surprising then to see a young international crowd, mostly singles, converging on the island, turning it into a small global village. Here, everyone gets into island mode – relaxing under the sun and sinking gently into the tranquility of this heavenly spot with its warm, welcoming sea.
Sins & Families
That morning, when our boat sped towards the island from the jetty at Kuala Besut, our boatman enquired whether we were going to the big island or the small island. “The small one,” we told him, referring to Perhentian Kecil, one of two islands that make up Pulau Perhentian. The big one, Perhentian Besar, is separated from the little one by just 10 minutes by boat. He smiled, his yellow-tainted teeth shining against the bright sunlight. “Itu pulau maksiat,” he said, his voice rising above the roar of the engine. We smiled at him knowingly. We knew that some locals dubbed Perhentian Kecil as the “island of vice (maksiat)” where singles and the “single-at-heart” meet, mingle and party.
The boatman then told us that locals prefer Perhentian Besar. “It is suitable for families. You can find more comfortable lodging there. Only two of you travelling together?” he enquired, looking at us as he squinted against the sun. Because he was such a nosy character, we gingerly steered him away from personal stuff and into small talk about how beautiful the sea was. And beautiful it was indeed, the blue-green sea with water glinting in the sunlight. The sweeping view of sky and sea, punctuated with little boats in the horizon, was nothing short of dazzling.
Village Ambience
About 30 minutes later, we approached the shore of Perhentian Besar where half the number of passengers in the boat, all locals, got off. The rest of us, 10 altogether, including a motley group of western backpackers, would be going on to the little island. Barely rising from above the waves, a gentle slope of white sand beach festooned with coconut palms and casuarina trees loomed into view. Our boat stopped not too far from the beach.
Almost on cue, several little boats sped towards us. These would ferry us to the shore. When we finally stepped on land, we hung on to our backpacks and walked along the beach under the searing sun. Thirsty and exhausted, we stopped at the nearest chalet. Tucked against a rocky headland in the southeastern side of the island, the wooden shacks of the Lemon Grass Chalets, well shaded among trees, beckoned like a cool oasis. It looked like a small village with traditional Malay houses built on stilts.
We decided to book a chalet there. The rate was unbelievably low. Only RM35 for a chalet for two! Each chalet has a veranda. Our neighbours, two caucasian girls clad in batik sarong tied over their bikinis, were within hearing shot! They had a ready smile when we waved and responded with a cheerful “hello!” Once inside the chalet, however, we couldn’t wait to get out! It was steaming hot inside and we couldn’t switch on the table fan as electricity was available only from 7pm to 7am.
There was a double bed with a thin mattress covered with, thankfully, a clean sheet. That was all but hey, we couldn’t expect more for the meagre amount we paid. A common bath area and the toilets are located outside. Rainwater is collected in barrels and this is used for washing, and even bathing, when the piped water runs low. Owned by Ma Hussin Yusof, Lemon Grass has been in operation for the last nine years.
There are 16 units of chalets, occupied mainly by foreigners. “Only about five per cent are locals,” said the reception staff. A quick glance through the guest-book showed that the guests were mainly students from England and other parts of Europe. We were told that some have stayed on the island for over a month. A few even worked part time at local sundry shops and snorkelling/diving centres to raise money before they moved on to other places. A few have even settled down here, marrying locals or staying with adopted families.
Famous Long Beach
On the island, the great outdoors are everyone’s playground. The action is all out there, especially over at the Long Beach. It’s the most famous and the longest stretch of beach on the island. Hardly anyone calls it by its local name, Pantai Pasir Panjang. Lazy chairs and colourful umbrellas dot the sparkling white sand beach.
If you’re taking a stroll along the beach, you may find it hard to keep your eyes “straight” ahead. But try you must, as it is rude to stare at the skimpily clad men and women sunbathing and relaxing under the sun. Here, the code of conduct is “don’t stare, judge or comment”. Just smile and if you feel like it, strike up a conversation and ask a few friendly questions.
Despite the many people on the beach, you can still find your own spot of privacy. Why, even white belly eagles seem tame and often land on a quiet spot here. Lining the beach are rustic little beach cafes and restaurants with wooden poles and nipah roofs. Buoys, flags and batik sarongs hanging from the roofs or hung on poles and walls add colour to the lazy island ambience. Equally enchanting are the names of some of the drinking joints, eateries and chalets – Matahari (sun), Symphony, Moonlight, Panorama and D’Lagoon, all of which add to the touch of romance in the air.
Do Not Disturb
We spent the afternoon sipping the island’s specialty drink, coconut shake — coconut milk or santan blended with ice and vanilla ice cream and served in a tall glass. Just perfect for chilling out in the hot afternoon. We gazed at the turquoise-blue waters, watching others bathe in the sea or set out in boats for a spot of snorkelling and diving. The surrounding waters are protected areas so there’s a thriving marine life and healthy coral gardens to admire. The young crowd on the beach was oblivious to others. Hours passed with many of them just lying on lazy chairs or on towels spread on the sand. Reading, sunbathing, sleeping or having quiet chat over cool drinks – it was each to his or her own private indulgence. Very little broke the peace of the quiet moments except for the occasional sounds of boats passing by.
Lots Of Green
For a change of scene, we trekked the hilly, lightly forested interior towards the western side of the island. Well-posted signs directed us along the trail from Long Beach to the tiny and pretty Coral Bay or Aur Bay on the western part. It was an easy 15-minute walk along footpaths through the jungle. The highest point with tall trees accorded us a peek at the sea, craggy mountainside and picturesque chalets tucked among pockets of greens. Much of the island remains shrouded in greenery, rocky land and cliffs surrounding the bays and inlets. These are home to birds, monitor lizards and bees humming among flowery bushes. Coral Bay has a small strip of beach and not too far away is the Sunset Beach. The best time to be there is obviously when the sun is going down. Watching the white sand turning gold and amber as the sun went down below the horizon made our day.
Party Time!
Walking back to Long Beach, we saw lights twinkling on the beachfront. When the sun goes down, the tempo goes up. Night is definitely not the time to retire to the chalets and catch some sleep. It is time to party! There was music and, if anyone chose, there was dancing. Certainly, there was a lot of merrymaking, drinking and dining. Beach parties are one of the island’s attractions. But we saw no evidence of purportedly “wild” scenes of drunken people getting rowdy or couples smooching openly. Instead, everyone was having a good time, eating and drinking and listening to music that went on till the wee hours.
Feeling Right At Home
Sleep came very hard but we managed to knock off for maybe two to three hours. At the crack of dawn, we were back on the beach. At that time, the island was totally seductive, the water inviting. We took a dip and found the water warm and wonderfully soothing. We had the beach all to ourselves while the rest of the island slept on. The rocky cliffs seemed so familiar then and we felt so comfortably at home. Yes, in a way we did as I am sure so many others must have felt too. But for now, we were all cocooned in our own beautiful dreams on this island paradise.
How Much
The estimated budget of RM160 covers the cost for one person on 2D/1N stay (twin sharing RM17.50 each) in a budget chalet, return bus fare Kuala Lumpur-Kuala Besut jetty (RM14), return speed boat fare Kuala Besut jetty-Pulau Perhentian Kecil (RM60), return small boat transfer (RM4), entrance fee to the island, which is within a marine park (RM5) and meals for two days (RM60).
If you travel by express train from Kuala Lumpur, you will need to pay more. Economy seat on train (RM56 return) and taxi fare from the train station in Wakaf Baru in Kelantan to Kuala Besut (about RM80 return). If you want to snorkel or dive, set aside another RM40 for the trip and RM65 to RM90 per dive. Bring more cash for contingencies and if you want to splurge a little.
Where To Stay
Long Beach: Lemon Grass Chalets, Matahari Chalets, Chempaka Chalets and Panorama Chalets for back to basic lodging. Bubu Long Beach Resort offers a more comfortable stay.
Coral Bay: Fatimah Chalets, Maya Beach Resort and Aur Bay Chalets. There are many other chalets that charge from RM10 for dormitory-style accommodation to over RM270 for room with air-conditioning and bathroom.
Most chalets don’t accept advance booking and they are fully occupied most of the time. Plan to arrive early at the island to check for room availability. Bring along a tent in case all rooms are fully booked, especially during peak season. For details, contact local travel agents offering tours to Perhentian.
Two of these are Kuala Besut Travel & Tours (09-697 4948) or Ping Anchorage Travel & Tours (09-626 2020). Lemon Grass Chalets can be reached by calling 019-938 3893/012-900 8393.
What To Eat
Beach cafes and restaurants offer both local and western fare. You can get some fairly good western food as eateries there cater mostly to westerners. Western breakfast (toast and pancakes, from RM3 to RM6), sandwiches RM4.50 to RM6, main dishes like spaghetti and rice dishes (from RM7) and barbecue (from RM10).
How To Get There
Pulau Perhentian in the South China Sea is located 20km off the coast of Terengganu. The main gateway is Kuala Besut, 108km from Kuala Terengganu (about two hours) and 54km from Kota Baru or Wakaf Baru, Kelantan (about one hour). Boat ride from Kuala Besut: 30 minutes by speedboat and 1 1/2 hours by slow boat.
Best Time To Go
March to September, but avoid school holidays and public holidays. The island is closed during the monsoon season from October to February.
What’s On
Mark August in your calendar for the annual Perhentian Island Challenge. This year, it will be from August 24 to 26. It is a multi-sport endurance race that includes swimming, kayaking, trail/beach running and water orienteering. Now into its fourth year, the challenge this year offers cash prizes totalling RM50,000.
There is a new category for first-timers in addition to the Elite category. Be there to watch participants from all over the world in keen competition. Entertainment, traditional games and food fair are added attractions.
For details, contact info@perhentianislandchallenge.com or call 013-210 9283 or 03-2142 6688.
Pulau Bidong or Palau Bidong
Pulau Bidong or Palau Bidong by the American War Veteran. This little island was also know as little Saigon and is an historical island, which lay many memories to a lot of the of the older generation and the former the Boat People I had went in search for article about the Boat people.
.. ......after reading those article I was lost with words that I had decided to post the Story of the island from journey Malaysia and other that I put up together here as I don’t think I have the right to write about things that I don’t know.
Pulau Bidong- The Story
In “Deer Hunter”, a movie starring Robert de Niro and Christopher Walken exploded into the theatres in 1978, and became one of the movie industry's historical turning points. This film dealt with lives of U.S. war veterans and their failure to assimilate into society back home after the Vietnam War.Many moviegoers in the U.S. knew someone or of someone who had gone off to fight and lost a part of them there. The impact of atrocities of war had never been more realised nor had it ever been so close to heart.
On the other side of the fence, whilst the Americans were picking pieces of their lives, the Vietnamese people had still to live through the terror, long after the U.S. veterans had left their land. As the last of the U.S. administrators and officers left Saigon on 29th and 30th April 1975, things began to change for the Vietnamese people. Millions of people were displaced, orphaned and millions suffered all through the next 2 decades.
Little did we realise at the time, Malaysia was already feeling the ripples caused by that war . There were many displaced victims of war, who were desperate to leave the country. They sold whatever they could and bribed anyone that was willing to ‘help' them gain a passage out of Vietnam. Those lucky enough, bought themselves space on cramped wooden boats heading for a new life in neighbouring countries. Others tried to trek across to the Thai borders where they hoped to secure asylum there.
Their journey was a perilous one. No one knew what to expect upon arrival in the new land. The boats were usually so cramped, most passengers had little more than crouching spaces. Storms came and went; illnesses and malnutrition took away a few elders, children and the weak; and pirates pillaged boats. Stories were told of pirates ruthlessly raping, killing, and throwing victims overboard. Occasionally, bodies were washed up ashore.
To others, the greatest fear was that if marine patrol boats were to catch up with them before arriving at their specified destination, their sentence would be an immediate return to Vietnam and.... a death sentence.
Still even with the many danger that they face ,yet more and more of the ‘Boat People', made their parelial journeys despite the slim chances of them making the entire journey unscathed. Many arrived on Malaysian soil - praying that the Malaysian authorities would not send them back. They soon learnt that if they ‘broke' their boats by crashing them onto rocks in shallow waters, they could buy more time with the immigration officials. The officials had no choice but to house them in camps until proper documentation etc were issued.
The refugees landed wherever they could and realising that there may be more to come, the authorities agreed to allow camps to be set up for them. One chosen camp location was Pulau Bidong. The Pulau Bidong refugee camp started in 1975 and was sponsored by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNCHR). The Malaysian Red Crescent Society, on the other hand, was responsible for the daily operations at the camp.
Some 250,000 refugees filtered through this camp between 1975 and 1991. When the camp closed , all remaining refugees were relocated or were returned to Vietnam.
Although the almost circular island has land space of about 2km in diameter, the camp occupied only a small area. Real estate was the career to choose at the camp. After all, like anywhere - it's location, location, location! Refugees leaving the camp would sell their shacks to new arrivals or brokers from as little as US$20 to as high as US$400.
So,what happen to Bidong Island after the handover and after 1999? and what is left on the island?
Though there was proposal to preserve the relics on the island, but when the first group of visitor stepped on the island after nearly 8 years being isolated from the world outside, those collapsed and rotting buildings and overgrown bushes imply that none of the preservation action has been carried out. Few buildings had been torched, equipment that remained in the vocational workshops has been smashed, wooden platform of the jetty was completely stripped…..by the nature, by the wildlife and also, by human.
Nevertheless, few structures are safe from the destructive action, such as an artificial boat besides the temple to commemorate those arrival on the island, statute of a father who pulls his beloved daughter out from the sea, cement memories with heart aching words inscribed, gravestones marking the burial plots etc. They stand like a mute reminder to the world.
Recently there are interests to turn this island into a tourist spot. But what kind of tourism can it be and should it be? This is a big question mark leaves for people whoever involves in the industry. Some say to construct new sky scrapping hotel buildings like other islands; some suggest to make the Little Saigon reborn and alive again by rebuilding the bar and disco and, some recommend to make Bidong Island a memorial island thus promoting heritage tour…
Before anything turn into reality, afford to bring tourists here has long started by some local tour operators. In year 2003, a group of former boat people who have resettled in other countries made their trip back to this island, which was once sheltered them from the waves of life. Many of them came back with their spouse. Their vision was bursting into tears, words turned into sobbing. A simple chanting ceremony was taken out by a group of Buddhism-Chinese as to calm the soul of those dead relatives and fellows. To them, this island is more than a bitter part of their history.
To date, fewer Malaysian tourists come here, not only because they are not familiar with the name but also, some of them claim that there is black spirit on the island. (there were many death)
Regardless how true it is, a 3D2N package tour with accommodation in resorts or hotel in the mainland or a day trip is available now from Kuala Terengganu to the island in order to give a chance to have a glimpse on this island before proceeding to snorkelling or diving trip in adjacent water. A guided tour is advisable even though you can simply hire a boat from Merang to the island yourself. There are many traps in form of abandoned wells dug by the refugees for fresh water.
Whether or not this island is going to be another Tourist attraction as famous as Redang or Tioman in the eyes of tourism, it remains a very special part in the heart for many Vietnamese and Malaysian Helper who had serve there. And, although Bidong Island is not familiar to the younger generation today, it will always has its place in the Malaysia’s modern history.
Pulau Bidong or Palau Bidong by the American War Veteran. This little island was also know as little Saigon and is an historical island, which lay many memories to a lot of the of the older generation and the former the Boat People I had went in search for article about the Boat people.
.. ......after reading those article I was lost with words that I had decided to post the Story of the island from journey Malaysia and other that I put up together here as I don’t think I have the right to write about things that I don’t know.
..........................................................................................
Warning!!
Never go to Pulau Bidong Alone even though it is not restricted to the public any more, as There are many traps in form of abandoned wells dug which was dug by the refugees for fresh water a decade ago
Never go to Pulau Bidong Alone even though it is not restricted to the public any more, as There are many traps in form of abandoned wells dug which was dug by the refugees for fresh water a decade ago
.........................................................................
Pulau Bidong- The Story
In “Deer Hunter”, a movie starring Robert de Niro and Christopher Walken exploded into the theatres in 1978, and became one of the movie industry's historical turning points. This film dealt with lives of U.S. war veterans and their failure to assimilate into society back home after the Vietnam War.Many moviegoers in the U.S. knew someone or of someone who had gone off to fight and lost a part of them there. The impact of atrocities of war had never been more realised nor had it ever been so close to heart.
On the other side of the fence, whilst the Americans were picking pieces of their lives, the Vietnamese people had still to live through the terror, long after the U.S. veterans had left their land. As the last of the U.S. administrators and officers left Saigon on 29th and 30th April 1975, things began to change for the Vietnamese people. Millions of people were displaced, orphaned and millions suffered all through the next 2 decades.
Little did we realise at the time, Malaysia was already feeling the ripples caused by that war . There were many displaced victims of war, who were desperate to leave the country. They sold whatever they could and bribed anyone that was willing to ‘help' them gain a passage out of Vietnam. Those lucky enough, bought themselves space on cramped wooden boats heading for a new life in neighbouring countries. Others tried to trek across to the Thai borders where they hoped to secure asylum there.
Their journey was a perilous one. No one knew what to expect upon arrival in the new land. The boats were usually so cramped, most passengers had little more than crouching spaces. Storms came and went; illnesses and malnutrition took away a few elders, children and the weak; and pirates pillaged boats. Stories were told of pirates ruthlessly raping, killing, and throwing victims overboard. Occasionally, bodies were washed up ashore.
To others, the greatest fear was that if marine patrol boats were to catch up with them before arriving at their specified destination, their sentence would be an immediate return to Vietnam and.... a death sentence.
---------------------------------
The Boat People in Pulau Bidong
Still even with the many danger that they face ,yet more and more of the ‘Boat People', made their parelial journeys despite the slim chances of them making the entire journey unscathed. Many arrived on Malaysian soil - praying that the Malaysian authorities would not send them back. They soon learnt that if they ‘broke' their boats by crashing them onto rocks in shallow waters, they could buy more time with the immigration officials. The officials had no choice but to house them in camps until proper documentation etc were issued.
The refugees landed wherever they could and realising that there may be more to come, the authorities agreed to allow camps to be set up for them. One chosen camp location was Pulau Bidong. The Pulau Bidong refugee camp started in 1975 and was sponsored by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNCHR). The Malaysian Red Crescent Society, on the other hand, was responsible for the daily operations at the camp.
Some 250,000 refugees filtered through this camp between 1975 and 1991. When the camp closed , all remaining refugees were relocated or were returned to Vietnam.
Although the almost circular island has land space of about 2km in diameter, the camp occupied only a small area. Real estate was the career to choose at the camp. After all, like anywhere - it's location, location, location! Refugees leaving the camp would sell their shacks to new arrivals or brokers from as little as US$20 to as high as US$400.
Black market also thrived in the community. Local fishermen traded with several Vietnamese who were brave enough to swim out to the fishing boats, anchored some distance from the island. With black market came gangsters, vendors, suppliers and the rest. If there was a market, there was supply. Even prostitution was not uncommon. But not everyone worked for a ‘Big Brother'….not full time, that is. There were those who were employed as labourers and administrators in the offices and were paid in food parcels - the common denomination of the island's economy.
The Malaysian Red Crescent Society had an administration office at the camp. A temple was built with the help of the Malaysian government, UNCHR and the red crescent society. A school, a church, a clinic, shops and a cemetery was also set up at camp. All left abandoned now. The wooden structures are disintegrating with the years of neglect but the stories of their lives are etched, carved and preserved on slabs and in memorials left behind by the boat people….those that lived through the ordeals and unjust punishment of a war
.........................................................
Pulau Bidong a tourist spot?
Although this tiny island only had the capacity to accommodate for 4,500 refugees, however during some very ‘peak’ seasons, it once sheltered almost 40,000 people. To ensure the better living condition, long houses were built with schools, workshops, post office, church, temple, tailors, hair salons, bakery, noodle shops, sundry shops, even disco and bar etc. as to serve the basic needs. The home missing emotion can even seen not only on these imitation, the refugees even named on the beach here as Pantai Cina-China Beach, the famous counterpart in Vietnam. Therefore it is no doubt why Bidong was also called Little Saigon.
Bidong was the temporary home for the refugees before they are resettled to third country.Time taken for resettlement process varied from each individual. Some took a few months and some few years. While waiting for the news, UNHCR had organized vocational training, languages classes, kindergarten etc. for the refugees as a preparation for them to face the challenges of life when they are resettled in other countries. Those who are rejected in the resettlement process will then be transferred to Sungai Besi Refugee Camp.
When the last batch of the refugees left the island in 1991, Bidong Island was officially handed back to the Terengganu state government, but remains restricted to the public until 1999.Bidong was the temporary home for the refugees before they are resettled to third country.Time taken for resettlement process varied from each individual. Some took a few months and some few years. While waiting for the news, UNHCR had organized vocational training, languages classes, kindergarten etc. for the refugees as a preparation for them to face the challenges of life when they are resettled in other countries. Those who are rejected in the resettlement process will then be transferred to Sungai Besi Refugee Camp.
So,what happen to Bidong Island after the handover and after 1999? and what is left on the island?
Though there was proposal to preserve the relics on the island, but when the first group of visitor stepped on the island after nearly 8 years being isolated from the world outside, those collapsed and rotting buildings and overgrown bushes imply that none of the preservation action has been carried out. Few buildings had been torched, equipment that remained in the vocational workshops has been smashed, wooden platform of the jetty was completely stripped…..by the nature, by the wildlife and also, by human.
Nevertheless, few structures are safe from the destructive action, such as an artificial boat besides the temple to commemorate those arrival on the island, statute of a father who pulls his beloved daughter out from the sea, cement memories with heart aching words inscribed, gravestones marking the burial plots etc. They stand like a mute reminder to the world.
Recently there are interests to turn this island into a tourist spot. But what kind of tourism can it be and should it be? This is a big question mark leaves for people whoever involves in the industry. Some say to construct new sky scrapping hotel buildings like other islands; some suggest to make the Little Saigon reborn and alive again by rebuilding the bar and disco and, some recommend to make Bidong Island a memorial island thus promoting heritage tour…
Before anything turn into reality, afford to bring tourists here has long started by some local tour operators. In year 2003, a group of former boat people who have resettled in other countries made their trip back to this island, which was once sheltered them from the waves of life. Many of them came back with their spouse. Their vision was bursting into tears, words turned into sobbing. A simple chanting ceremony was taken out by a group of Buddhism-Chinese as to calm the soul of those dead relatives and fellows. To them, this island is more than a bitter part of their history.
To date, fewer Malaysian tourists come here, not only because they are not familiar with the name but also, some of them claim that there is black spirit on the island. (there were many death)
Regardless how true it is, a 3D2N package tour with accommodation in resorts or hotel in the mainland or a day trip is available now from Kuala Terengganu to the island in order to give a chance to have a glimpse on this island before proceeding to snorkelling or diving trip in adjacent water. A guided tour is advisable even though you can simply hire a boat from Merang to the island yourself. There are many traps in form of abandoned wells dug by the refugees for fresh water.
Whether or not this island is going to be another Tourist attraction as famous as Redang or Tioman in the eyes of tourism, it remains a very special part in the heart for many Vietnamese and Malaysian Helper who had serve there. And, although Bidong Island is not familiar to the younger generation today, it will always has its place in the Malaysia’s modern history.
Pulau Tenggol or Tenggol Island is the name for the most finest Diving spot in Peninsular Malaysia. Tenggol Island is the most unique in Terengganu, the name “Tenggol” which in the terengganu dialect means 'to perch',this is because first glimp of this islnd from afar ,You will see that the island resembles a person perching. The island till to today are still use by local fishermen as shelter from sudden tropical sea storms or bad whether.
The only beach here is the only long stretch beach of Teluk Air Tawar or Fresh Water Bay. The sand here are modestly white , The beach is are frequent by its permanent customer, who came here every 8 or ten year . From the age of dinosaur, many green turtle and hawksbill turtles from across the globe are driven by their instincts have returned to mate in the same shore and to lay their egg at the same beach where they hatched from some 30…40…50…60 years ago.
The Island wonder was lay hidden for a long time, other than once used to be a hiding place by the Vietnamese’s Boat people before been discovered by the authority and was allocated to the Famous Pulau Bidong and as shelter from unseen bad whether. According from my father, Pa says that Pulau Tenggol was famous after some marine-biologist discovered whale shark, dolphin and large amount of bio-diversities in the water of Tenggol Island and its secret underwater world. This finding were report in the press and soon the island was famous and throughout the year many heavenly diving sport was discovered. The local and centre government later to protect and develop it later, gazetted the island as part of Terengganu Marine Park. Where the island are protected by the fishing activities, spear fishing, and collecting the marine life even for study will require a permit and any un-inform building activities are strictly prohibited. Here u can only find one resort, which is the Tenggol Island Resort. In the end the island was never developed as was a blessing.
With the frequent patrol , strict action and conservation by the Department of Fisheries Malaysia. The island and its diving site are unspoiled and much of the reef remains intact. and the most importantly its is very far from the tourist bee hive like Redang, Perhentian and The Kapas Island and there only one resort here. Thus leaving much of dive site un crowded
I don’t well come green horn’s diver to tenggol island to dive, unless, you are and experience diver or at least an advance level diver before coming here. The Dive master will test your skill in open water at the western bay of Teluk Air Tawar. The current here are at most of the dive site are very unpredictable thus making its quite dangerous for the green horn. and a lot of the famous dive site here should be temp by dive who had large experience in the open water.
The Western Bay of Teluk Air Tawar is a beautiful dive site and a must for and photographer, suitable for everyone can be reach from the beach, the calm seabed slopes gently from the shoreline. Its is very famous because here you can see into a lot of marine life and coral. Many green parrotfish ,sea turtle frequent here to feed, and lots of colourful coral fish like unique parrotfish, Nemo, Yellow tang, Angelfish, ray, Percula clownfish, sea snake, ells, moray and other dangerous sea life like zebra lion fish, Puffer fish, Sea Urchin, Starfish , Lion fish, Coral cat fish, octopus . Garden eel can bee seen poking around the sandy nudibranch and fire coral.
When dark, the bay will be full bloom into life like a big city. colourful night creature can be found almost everywhere. that even two tank will not be enough for photographer and some diver,suring this time most of us need to be more extra carefull as many poisonous creature can be found here that u need to scoured fist before swimming especially when reaching the surface area.
Still don’t lose track of time or your find your self sweep away far away from your group or ended hurt. There had been cases of hard headed tourist, Who didn’t heed any advice and also are to proud with their scuba experience or be little the warning from the Dive instructor that they pay top dollar to local fishemen to bring them here , sometime some of this dive result accident .
Most of the diver that come here are nature lover who is “Hard core Diver” and “seasons diver. there are some who came here during the month august to October to see the whale shark ,but most are here to see the few pod of dophin which frequent the south western side of Pulau Tenggol.
Even the shallow water in front of the resort are a good place for snorkelling for many kind of coral ,brain corals, staghorn corals,blah...blahhh.blah and the dangerous fire corals. and its denizen.
There are a lot of famous diving spot but here, Pulau Nyireh,Tokong Laut or ‘The Highway’ , Coral Garden, White rock, Moonracker, Amazing Grace ,Sarang Lang and more .if you want to find out more of the diving site here ...u can check at Tenggol Island Resort. and use google image search at google.com.my for “Tenggol coral” fish at tenggol.
Pulau Redang also knows as Redang Island is located just 45 km off the coast of Kuala Terengganu in the South China Sea or approximately 45 minutes boat ride from the famous Merang (wooden Jetty ) to Redang island .The Jetty is situated at the fishing village of Merang. The fishing village is North of Kuala Terengganu.
Redang Island gazetted as a Marine Park back in 1985, and enjoy the protection of the Department of Fisheries of Malaysia is one of the 8 isle in Terengganu that top The 10 Most Beautiful Island in Malaysia. Redang is also one of The Most Beautiful Island in the World and are among the Best Known and Most Famous Gem Haven for Diving Activities for Tourist and All Diver all around Malaysia and the world. Redang Archipelago, exists of 9 islands ( comprises of Pulau Redang, Pulau Pinang, Pulau Ling, Pulau Ekor Tebu, Pulau Kerengga Besar, Pulau Kerengga Kechil, Pulau Paku Besar, Pulau Paku Kechil and Pulau Lima.) that abound with stunning marine life and coral reefs that ensure great snorkelling and scuba-diving. Your fist glimpse of the isle will leave you spell bounded by the Postcard scenery and instantly captivated by the lush green carpet of vegetation that covers the gently sloping hills
Immediately upon arriving at Redang, the light blue water offers an enticing temptation to 'test the water'. A big mistake that are frequent by unsuspecting visitors and most first timer and once including me : P .Where u will find your self deceived by Redang's crystal clear water.
Many are deceived by Redang's crystal clear water as the sea at Redang archipelago are special! The water visibility here is about an Outstandingly 45 feet!!. When the sea is very calm it can get up to 18 meters, that's Over 54 feet. Which many will find it Unbelievable!! (which is a Bonus for diver and snorkel)
Why? you ask? well....
“Try imaging seeing many people sunbathing along the Beach and then your boat just arrive near the shore and with out waiting for completed stop And for a great Entry with your khaki short ,shirt and wearing a hat and a sunglasses .You jump into the knee deep crystal clear water like everyone.. Later .. only to find your self your self standing in a shoulder deep water than expected and had to walk up to the shore and endure the laugh of the many beach comber and (when you see somebody checking in at the counter with wet attire...your will know what had happen to then : P ”
I have seen some for at very calmly and just trodden trough the water and up to the beach.... as if nothing had happen. Still it can be a horrible night mare for children and women...i had seen those who took lightly on the boat opperator advice about Redang's crystal clear water. Once at the beach I saw a boat had just arrive in front of resort..a women lift her skirt (Why in hell that any one want to wear skirt on a boat Each Time!!!) and took a step and plunge/ Walk the plank into the sea like a rock with her skirt like umbrella up to her face. She was shock and went on panicking in the water that it took almost an hour for her to calm down...in the resort.
So for those out ..You had read my warning. Make sure you pay attentions to the boat operator Warning.
The Famous More-More Inn
The paradise-like island, surrounded by majestic green hills, the Shining white sandy beach ,the crystal clear light turquoise sea water with the temperature range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius during the day and with Mother Nature gift of a breathtaking scenic sunset give an unforgettable soothing calmness and relaxation sensation to people at the Redang island. The isle is rich in diverseforms of colourful fishes and abundance marine life swimming gracefully around the world's most mature coral gardens.
The water here is very crystal clear that even On the seafront visitors can even see the many beautiful corals and a variety of fish from the beach. Don’t be shy to rent Diving and snorkelling gear from any of the resorts or any operators on the islands .even if for just a while in the water to have a closer look.
Things that you can sea at the shallow water
At the shallow water around Redang isle u can see many large variety of marine life like the clown fish, many Colourful parrot fish,some reef shark, stingrays and other small fish brightly lit like colourful neon bulbs. Amongst the corals near the shore and rock, one can see all kinds of shellfish, sea anemone, and Gamat (sea cucumber).
The most beautiful beach at Pulau Redang - Pasir Panjang Beach (where you find the MORE MORE Tea INN)
Unknowns by most people,The island’s finest beaches is in the Pasir Panjang beach, and from my point of view, the beach surrounded by majestic green hills that cast a shadows in the simmering sea with a magnificent shoreline of fine powdery white sand and a coral garden immersed in a clear blue sea is a perfect getaway for holiday seeker.
Plenty of good snorkeling and diving sites can be found here like; Pulau Kerengga Besar, Pulau Kerengga Kechil, Mat Dollah, Pulau Paku Besar, Pulau Paku Kechil , Tanjung Tokong, Turtle Bay, House Reef, Marine Park Headquarter, However, deep sea snorkeling is not necessary though there are 2 snorkeling boat trips to bring you to any of these area.
The water around Redang isle also offer many perfect diving spot including two historic shipwrecks The H.M.S Prince of Wales and the H.M.S Repulse that were sunk here by the Japanese Imperial Navy at the start of World War II, setting the stage for the Japanese occupation of Malaya.
To do a diving trip here, you need to book with the dive shop at any of the resorts that offer its. Even non diver can sign up for a scuba diving course and lesson on the spot. Check up for the detail of the fee charged.
The language
You wont to worry about the language here as just about everybody here speaks English, since its compulsory subject to be learn in all school in Malaysia. There are also school, police station and a Goverment Health Clinic Centre to be found.
Berjaya Air's plane landing at the Bejayaa private airstrip at Pulau Redang
HOW TO GET THERE
By Air :
Malaysia Airline System (MAS) & AirAsia operates services direct from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to Kuala Terengganu. "however, Air Asia is cheaper, but with limited flights and seats. A MAS round-trip ticket costs RM388.00 [adult] while Air Asia offers as low as RM19.90 for single trip"
(that's if you book really early or fly on off-peak hours)
The flight takes about 45 minutes.
or if u in the "rat race" then by Berjaya Air,From KLIA Airport straight to Pulau Redang.
By Road :
Express buses/Coaches and outstation taxis offer regular services from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu.Coaches go to Kuala Terengganu. It costs approximately RM23.80 one way for Coaches.If you are not rushing for time Takes the coaches where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and experience the local village culture along the east coast. The coach stops a few times along the journey at town and villages for tea break, you might get a chance to drop by and experience some Malaysian local culture is like in the "Kampung Life" as we call it.
Overall The trip takes about 7 hours.
There are many buses, coaches and taxis commuting between Kuala Terengganu town and Merang Jetty.
Destination Day ETD / ETA/ Fare
Kuala Lumpur / Kuala Terengganu, Daily, 2245 / 0645* next day ,RM26
Kuala Terengganu / Kuala Lumpur,Daily. RM28
From Penang
Depart daily at night from KOMTAR or Butterworth stations to Kuala Terengganu. Journey: 8 Hours from Johor Bahru Depart daily (10:00am, 9:00pm, 9:30pm, 10:00pm) Larkin Station / Hentian Kompleks Pengangkutan Awam to Kuala Terengganu Journey: 10 Hours Tel: +607-2245182, +607-2220045 Fare: RM28.60 (adult) / RM14.30 (child) from Singapore Depart daily (9:00am, 8:00pm, 9:00pm) Singapore (Lavender Street/ Kallang Bahru Junction) to Kuala TerengganuJourney: 11 Hours Tel: +65-62947035 Fare: RM51.90 (adult) / RM25.90 (child)
By Rail
There is no train or railway network to Terengganu at the moment.
By Ferry
The main jetty is at Merang, some 30 km north from Kuala Terengganu. From Merang, the trip to Pulau redang takes about 40 minutes on comfortable, large speedboats. There is no boat ticketing counter at Merang Jetty.
Accommodation and boating are all pre-arranged and on package deal only so Its best to book from Resort of Tour agency as all resort provide they own package deal from which may include diving surfing ,snorkeling ,kayaking and etc for the best package..
Advice its better to book early as some resort are to famous that they scenic room are book 5 or 8 month earliar. and sometime are booked till the next 2 or 3 year by some Rich Loyal customer.
As Terengganu also don’t Have enough hotel to accommodated the large influx of tourist each year. Ps:Beside that,we dont want the island to be over crowed do we?
Pulau Kapas.
Pulau Kapas or Kapas Island, An island famous for its clear waters, sandy white beaches and swaying coconut palms, it is relatively isolated. Home to an infinite variety of hard and soft corals, the waters around the island abound with seashells, fish and turtles and are famous place for bird watching.The island's laid back atmosphere is ideal for relaxation but the more adventurous will find it is also a haven for swimming, snorkelling, windsurfing, kayaking, boating and fishing.
Kapas has somehow become the refuge of those who refuse or could not join the Perhentian' crowd. The island is favourite with the local people in the very high season and the public holidays.
The island is just 4 nautical miles or only 6 KM in front of the Marang jetty and the fishing village of Marang. The nice little Kapas Island is visible from Marang jetty at all weather. The name “Kapas” or cotton came from its island which inherited the white powdery beaches which looked like 'kapas' or cotton . The Kapas island is a small island, with just over 2km long and 1km wide.
It's is an ideal place to break away from the busy hectic day. Kapas Island is about easy access, cheap, choices and plenty of accommodations available on the island for travellers to chose. Places, to stay ranging from camping sites to dormitory to island resorts with en suite facilities.
Here at the island you can find many small animal ,bird and reptiles.The Famous animal in Kapas Island is the famous song bird called “Murai Batu” or White-rumped shama (Copsychus malabaricus) . This song bird is reputed by most local as to has 23 different and equal beautiful melodies in its repertoire.
On the long stretches shallow water of island's western shore that u can snorkel . You can find many colourful reef and coral which extend out into the deep blue sea This area offer a lot for snorkelling and diving as the water here are warm and very green light blue water that are Crystal Clear but it advisable to wear a jacket is you are not a swimmer . During the low tide, some part of this shallow area can be a vast shallow area of just only a knee deep which is very dangerous. Don’t be temp to walk on any vast shallow water. (why? just read on)
The Variety of this little cotton island. has to offer to see are too many that Green ones who snorkel here may often find them self ,lose track and get trapped in shallow water during low tide which is quite dangerous .( Please Read The Article About The Danger of Walkable Shallow Water. in the Danger and safety precaution.)
The Kapas Island reef is a safe haven for abundance of beautiful marine life and coral. Which is blessing to most diver and snorkeler to find the such as unique parrotfish, Nemo, Yellow tang, angelfish, ray, Percula clownfish, sea snake, ells, giants clams, sea turtle and sea terrapin and other dangerous sea life like Fire Coral, Puffer fish, Sea Urchin, Starfish , Tiger fish, jelly fish , octopus (which sometime try to drown u by holding on you face) and the such.
Kapas Island is a good place for diving .as there are a lot of popular and favourite diving spot . A World War Two shipwreck located 5 nautical miles offshore is the key attraction to most of divers that frequent here as to photograph and gaze at the past . The popular and favourite diving spot for diver is the outer reefs on her seaward. The water of Kapas island also contains artificial reef of illegal fishing boat that been sunk here by the authority and private party to promote the developing of coral reef and also increase the fishing stock in Marang District
Only thing that never change on this island is the constant number of backpackers arriving and departing each day.
May - August and the local holidays are the best times to go ,May till August is the squid jigging season, During this period of time you can go for squid jigging activities which can be arranged by any one of the local chalet here during the evening.
The boat operator who is on a Squid jigging “Candat Sotong” trip will rig his boat with many neon light or florescent tube around a few long pole stuck on both side of his ship Roof like a big Wing. The many light that illuminated the water, will attract squibs to gather in the shaded area under the boat
How to Squib Jigging
You can start your squib jigging by let your little jig drop into the water about 1 or 2 feet and start jerking the line about 3 of 4 time, then pulled it up a bit till you saw your jig and then letting go.these step are done repeatedly .squib bite your jig when it fall and very softly . If your you jig felt a bit heavy ,quickly give a gentle jerk, but don’t jerk with all your strength as you don’t want to see your friend in the boat to be attack by your flying inking squib and Sharp Hooks.
Don’t be startle by the ink that been squirted out when you raise them out of the water as this is normal.
Like fish ,squib came in school,that if you saw that many people start catching this mean they are a school of squib under your boat,this is when your boat will have a fiasta of squib that u need to be quick on getting off the squib from the hook for the nex jigging before the school jet away. If the boat is very lucky, the boat’s ice container will be full of squib in 30 minute.
After coming back from your jigging trip. You can have your fresh squib, BBQ or just Fried them or eat it raw like the local do.
PS: To mine experience Makcik Gemuk Chalet is the best place to stay .
Getting there
From KL take a the daily flight offer by Malaysia Airlines or Air Asia to Kuala Terengganu Airport
or you can stay at some of the local home stay here at Bandar Marang like Damai Homestay while visting Marang Fishing Village
Pulau Kapas or Kapas Island, An island famous for its clear waters, sandy white beaches and swaying coconut palms, it is relatively isolated. Home to an infinite variety of hard and soft corals, the waters around the island abound with seashells, fish and turtles and are famous place for bird watching.The island's laid back atmosphere is ideal for relaxation but the more adventurous will find it is also a haven for swimming, snorkelling, windsurfing, kayaking, boating and fishing.
Kapas has somehow become the refuge of those who refuse or could not join the Perhentian' crowd. The island is favourite with the local people in the very high season and the public holidays.The island is just 4 nautical miles or only 6 KM in front of the Marang jetty and the fishing village of Marang. The nice little Kapas Island is visible from Marang jetty at all weather. The name “Kapas” or cotton came from its island which inherited the white powdery beaches which looked like 'kapas' or cotton . The Kapas island is a small island, with just over 2km long and 1km wide.
It's is an ideal place to break away from the busy hectic day. Kapas Island is about easy access, cheap, choices and plenty of accommodations available on the island for travellers to chose. Places, to stay ranging from camping sites to dormitory to island resorts with en suite facilities.
Here at the island you can find many small animal ,bird and reptiles.The Famous animal in Kapas Island is the famous song bird called “Murai Batu” or White-rumped shama (Copsychus malabaricus) . This song bird is reputed by most local as to has 23 different and equal beautiful melodies in its repertoire.
On the long stretches shallow water of island's western shore that u can snorkel . You can find many colourful reef and coral which extend out into the deep blue sea This area offer a lot for snorkelling and diving as the water here are warm and very green light blue water that are Crystal Clear but it advisable to wear a jacket is you are not a swimmer . During the low tide, some part of this shallow area can be a vast shallow area of just only a knee deep which is very dangerous. Don’t be temp to walk on any vast shallow water. (why? just read on)
The Variety of this little cotton island. has to offer to see are too many that Green ones who snorkel here may often find them self ,lose track and get trapped in shallow water during low tide which is quite dangerous .( Please Read The Article About The Danger of Walkable Shallow Water. in the Danger and safety precaution.)
The Kapas Island reef is a safe haven for abundance of beautiful marine life and coral. Which is blessing to most diver and snorkeler to find the such as unique parrotfish, Nemo, Yellow tang, angelfish, ray, Percula clownfish, sea snake, ells, giants clams, sea turtle and sea terrapin and other dangerous sea life like Fire Coral, Puffer fish, Sea Urchin, Starfish , Tiger fish, jelly fish , octopus (which sometime try to drown u by holding on you face) and the such.
Kapas Island is a good place for diving .as there are a lot of popular and favourite diving spot . A World War Two shipwreck located 5 nautical miles offshore is the key attraction to most of divers that frequent here as to photograph and gaze at the past . The popular and favourite diving spot for diver is the outer reefs on her seaward. The water of Kapas island also contains artificial reef of illegal fishing boat that been sunk here by the authority and private party to promote the developing of coral reef and also increase the fishing stock in Marang District
Only thing that never change on this island is the constant number of backpackers arriving and departing each day.
May - August and the local holidays are the best times to go ,May till August is the squid jigging season, During this period of time you can go for squid jigging activities which can be arranged by any one of the local chalet here during the evening.
The boat operator who is on a Squid jigging “Candat Sotong” trip will rig his boat with many neon light or florescent tube around a few long pole stuck on both side of his ship Roof like a big Wing. The many light that illuminated the water, will attract squibs to gather in the shaded area under the boat
How to Squib Jigging
You can start your squib jigging by let your little jig drop into the water about 1 or 2 feet and start jerking the line about 3 of 4 time, then pulled it up a bit till you saw your jig and then letting go.these step are done repeatedly .squib bite your jig when it fall and very softly . If your you jig felt a bit heavy ,quickly give a gentle jerk, but don’t jerk with all your strength as you don’t want to see your friend in the boat to be attack by your flying inking squib and Sharp Hooks.
Don’t be startle by the ink that been squirted out when you raise them out of the water as this is normal.
Like fish ,squib came in school,that if you saw that many people start catching this mean they are a school of squib under your boat,this is when your boat will have a fiasta of squib that u need to be quick on getting off the squib from the hook for the nex jigging before the school jet away. If the boat is very lucky, the boat’s ice container will be full of squib in 30 minute.
After coming back from your jigging trip. You can have your fresh squib, BBQ or just Fried them or eat it raw like the local do.
PS: To mine experience Makcik Gemuk Chalet is the best place to stay .
Getting there
From KL take a the daily flight offer by Malaysia Airlines or Air Asia to Kuala Terengganu Airport
| By
Car
From Kuala Lumpur Head east towards Kuantan. You will be driving on the Karak Highway all through to Kuantan, which takes approximately 3-4 hours. Once arriving on the outskirts of Kuantan town, head towards the Northeast, which will lead you to Kuala Terengganu. Marang is just on the outskirts of Kuala Terengganu town. From Penang Head towards Kota Baharu via the East-West Highway. Look out for the ‘Elephant Crossing? Signs. From Kota Baharu, head South for Marang. This is a seaside village just outside of Kuala Terengganu. From Kuala Terengganu head down the highway 3 towards Kuantan. Marang is about 10km from the city centre. From Johore or Singapore Travel north on the North-South Highway and exit at Yong Peng. From Yong Peng, take highway 1 to Labis and later onto Segamat. Segamat will lead you to Highway 12 and all the way to Kuantan. From Kuantan, head towards the Northeast which will take you to Kuala Terengganu. |
Additional Fact
There are plenty of boat operators at the jetty. Some of them take accommodation reservation or booking as well as snorkeling trip apart from boat ticket. You can book a room here or wait until you are on the island. the boat trip to the island takes 20 minutes.or you can stay at some of the local home stay here at Bandar Marang like Damai Homestay while visting Marang Fishing Village
Two or Three year ago most of the traveller that came here to Pulau Lang Tengah are consisted of mostly German, Japanese and European, also some Australian and a few local. This is because most of the publicity of the island was done in overseas markets instead of the domestics as sadly to say this; but because many Rich Malaysian here are lack in awareness of their action toward the nature. This is quite evidence in Pulau Perhentian where u can find many of the coral near the shore are damage by they clumsy fin and standing on the coral and stupid boat operator. Perhentian island perhaps in 10 year time, soon will only be remember in picture like Rantau Abang,
Pulau Lang Tengah or Lang Tengah Island off the coast of Terengganu were hidden in the shadow of its neighbours; Perhentian Island in the north and Redang Island in the south.
This pristine little island is one of the nation's well-kept secrets for almost five year. The Isle’s beautiful coral and its underwater secret were kept and share only with close friend.
Only true diver and most of the local dive master here and nature lovers knows of the secret of this tiny island as to kept it’s safe from ignorant people especially from the large majority of ignorant and big spending city dweller who only want to have fun but not really to amaze of what’s the nature have to offer. Most of these ignorant people came from KL, Penang and sadly, the Terengganu’s people its self.
The secret that are kept as long as possibly; were broken out too to many people in the past year, which in the end ended in sadly and joy. With the launching of subsequent resorts and last year by the launching and promotion by the state government to develop its economy and future, this tiny little island was put inside the tourism map as a new destinations and products for the tourism industry.
Sadly, to say many of greedy private agencies had started to see the gold value of this magnificent blue coral island.That these greedy agency now offer many , packages tours for the rich, with accommodation either in Pulau Perhentian or Pulau Redang. A lot of the boat operator hire by these private agency are not local and are irresponsible bunch , there just drop anchor near and some even drop anchor on top the coral as a convenient for rich tourist who stay at five star hotel in Redang or Perhentian ,hoping they will be given a large tip for they effort. (Shame on all of you for tip pings this kind of people. )
This has couse a lot of anger to many nature lover who had for long time had tried to protect its wonder. However, as compensation, the island is now a fully protected marine preserve. Where; any future construction on this island will be monitor and study closely of their impact toward the eco system and nature. and patrol boat patrolling its . However, I do not think they shall be any resort to be built here. Since the entire beach here had already been, resided
Today, more tourist and some Malaysian faces can bee seen on the island. But we are quite glad that, Some of the resort here are friend of the nature. Here you can find only room with only the basic accommodation of fan, hot water and some common room equip with TV and small karaoke room and some air conditions. Here the variety of food is modest with normal mixture of Western and Asian and local dishes offered .The island its self is less developed and the land and beaches is limited .Which is much as away of a deterrent against party headed tourist .
Lang Tengah is an island located roughly halfway between Pulau Redang and Pulau Perhentian as it is fairly deserted with only a handfull of resorts spread out along to shores.
The less crowd on the island, an effort by the local resort have made the Blue coral sea and the rugged green hill of Lang Tengah Island a wonderful and pleasant world and heaven for snorkelling ,diving and nature photographer .
The reefs here are very 'alive and untouched'. Even by snorkelling, ones can already see so many beautiful soft and hard corals ,and fishes. Here you can find large area of Blue Corals or Dark Purple Fan shaped which looks like a huge blue purplish taupe under the sea just laying underneath the shallow sea in front of the, Blue Coral Island Resort, which is the reason for the resort name.
The Pulau Lang Tengah, Here in Terengganu the bird; “Helang” or eagle are called “Lang” and Tengah means “Middle” as in the middle between Perhentian Island and Redang Island. The sea at Pulau Lang Tengah is the main road used by most fisherman since long time ago and still use today to go and return from the South China Sea. According to the local stories , the island was called Pulau Lang Tengah first by the Bugis and fishermen because they were a lot of ‘Lang’ can be seen in the area of the middle of the three island.
The first glimpse of the island and its tiny beach may make you think that you had been hag by your resort and your travel agency. this is quite true if you plan to just have fun and party as the beach here are only as wide as volley ball court. Even the view here are not very scenic except for the dark green hill and some swaying coconut palm. But then it is quite a good setting for most book worm, This is how Mother nature protect Lang Tengah secret.Decade ago many of the people that travel to this island were nature lover ,who came here to stroll along the small white sandy beach and bath under the sun for coveted golden tan and exploring the untouched tropical jungle in an island that they can claim as they own. While exploring the island shore, they were shocked and captivate by its secret. They later share its secret with close friend and they dive master, later it catch the imagining of some of the nature lover who was amaze with it. Later came the diver with their dive master, resort, the foreign, the newspaper and now the Travel agency
The crystal clear greenish blue shallow water, will simply captivate you when u see its under water secret.
The arresting beauty of the magnifecnt soft and hard coral and the bio-diversity of marine life is very splendid!! That it cannot be describe by word. If u want to know its under water secret its best you booked with the resort and stay there for 5 day.
Here you can go on a guide jungle treck which run up to some hills and beautiful bay. and maybe climbing up on the magnificent rugged rock formation along the coast where in the late evening you can see the many fishing fleet returing from their modest catch of the day.
Getting Here:
By Air :Malaysia Airline System (MAS) & AirAsia operates services direct from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu. The flight takes about 45 minutes. Taxi service is easily available from Kuala Terengganu to Merang jetty.
By Road : Express buses and outstation taxis offer regular services from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu. The trip takes about 7 hours.
There are many buses, coaches and taxis commuting between Kuala Terengganu town and Merang Jetty.
Public Transportfrom Kuala Lumpur
Destination Day ETD / ETA Fare
Kuala Lumpur / Kuala Terengganu Daily 2245 / 0645* next day RM26
Kuala Lumpur / Kuala Terengganu Daily 2330 / 0730* next day RM26
Kuala Lumpur / Kuala Terengganu Daily 2000 / 0400* next day RM26
Kuala Terengganu / Kuala Lumpur Daily 1100 / 1900 RM28
Kuala Terengganu / Kuala Lumpur Daily 2200 / 0600* next day RM28
from PenangDepart daily at night from KOMTAR or Butterworth stations to Kuala Terengganu. Journey: 8 Hoursfrom Johor BahruDepart daily (10:00am, 9:00pm, 9:30pm, 10:00pm) Larkin Station / Hentian Kompleks Pengangkutan Awam to Kuala TerengganuJourney: 10 Hours Tel: +607-2245182, +607-2220045 Fare: RM28.60 (adult) / RM14.30 (child) from SingaporeDepart daily (9:00am, 8:00pm, 9:00pm) Singapore (Lavender Street/ Kallang Bahru Junction) to Kuala TerengganuJourney: 11 Hours Tel: +65-62947035 Fare: RM51.90 (adult) / RM25.90 (child)
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The two Perhentian Islands, Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar are two of the most beautiful islands in the world…a virtual paradise and haven for snorkelling and diving and also a haven for those who doesn’t want or for those who were almost pelt to Deaf by the incessant crazy techno beats being belted out from every Thai island.
Perhentian Islands can be located 25 km from the coast of Kuala Besut in the South China Sea. It consists of two islands, Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil. Both islands, which have white-lined shores, and are surrounded by beautiful coconut palm, which fringe the island’s white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise-blue sea.Making trip to this lush and exotic tropical island is a must for all underwater photographers and nature lovers and a haven of virtual paradise for those who enjoy swimming, scuba and snorkelling, skin diving, Underwater diving, deep sea fishing, wind surfing, sailing, boating and kayaking .
“A lot of people especially tourist misunderstand that these two islands fall within the governance of Kelantan.... all because it is located at far northern of Terengganu and near the neighbouring state, Kelantan. Making its worst further more, the accessible point is through the jetty in Kuala Besut, a small Terengganu fishing village but with a lot of Kelantanese culture, therefore many people actually thought that they are in Kelantan as what more is that all of the people here speak only the Kelantaness malay dialect...sigh!!”
In those days during the old time ,The “Perhentian” or “Stopping post”they are called because of the role they played as a post for traders and fisherman from Siam and local (Today’s Thailand).Because they are only two island and are different size in the area, the people called its Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil ,where the “Besar” and “Kecil” stand for Big and Small to different which is which.
Both the“Perhentian” islands are separated by a very small and narrow strait that contain the most crystal clear water at the island. But!! beware as the current is quite strong and no swimming and Kayaking are allow!! There are a lot of different between those two islands. Perhentian Besar is more of a vocational island whereas the small one is an island with the mixture of vacation mood and with local lifestyle due to Kampung Pasir Hantu a fishing village which is resided by more than 2300 villagers with completed basic facilities and also resorts and chalet and bungalow guesthouses.
The home here are randomly distributed in Kampungn Pasir Hantu. All the house in this Kampung remain in their original plain wooden colour without colourful paint ,except for the white and blue marine police station, Red and Yellow Klinic ,assembly hall and the school. because the clear blue sea and sky and also the palm trees are the best contrast and complementary.
All the bungalows/chalets that are on Pulau Perhentian Kecil are not on the beach! Here you can find convenience shops, local coffee shops also souvenir shops and soon a cyber café and etc. in the village. There are a lot of T-shirt, caps and batiks hanging and flapping by the breeze outside the shop and coconut trees waving in the wind Here you can find tourists who do not go out for snorkelling or diving will hang around here in the village or lay in their hummock.
It will be a waste if you come to Perhentians without paying a visit or have a glimpse to its abundance marine life.
There are a lot of good diving or snorkeling points around Perhentian Kecil: like D’Lagoon, Gua Kambing, Panglima Abu, Batu Nisan, Tanjung Butung and etc which you can find a lot of Colourful crown fish, angle fish, shark, Christmas tree, Deer Horn Coral, Sea cucumber, sea urchin, squib, turtle and more
…..Colourful marine life in all shapes and size which will be fascinating the underwater world. |
| The crazy squire at action |
Here you can jouney on a long trekking or a short and simple one. The Trails break into several parts. along the track. There are flora and fauna and also some wild Crazy Chip and Dale .monitor lizards, monkeys, geckos, flying squirrels, butterflies and many other types of animals in the jungle- sometimes right in front of your chalet that might impress or bring you much surprises.
The track start at Pasir Panjang and head to Aur Bay at the west side which takes only about 10 minutes. Then if your are not satisfy and want to go further from just Aur Bay .Head down to beaches in front of a local run chalet, called Mira Chalet to a trail connecting Mira Chalet with the fishing village. This part of trekking involves some climbing up and takes nearly 1 hour for you to reach Kampung Pasir Hantu and 1 hour back or if you are tired you can always look for a boat to give you a lift back.
There are rocky caves hills in the jungle which attract swallows to build their nest in this area which also bring some side income to the villagers who collect the precious bird nest from the caves. The bird nest collected here is just enough to serve the local market which is the resort.
Other than several recently built resorts, the rest of the guesthouses are in small scale with only basic facilities that stretch along the beach.
Perhentian Besar has longer and wider beaches and finer sand than Perhentian Kecil. Most of the beaches are distributed to its western and south eastern side, Teluk Pauh, Pasir Panjang, and Teluk Dalam are the most famous and popular beaches here..
Though accommodation is distributed over the beaches, Perhentian Besar is still covered by a lush rainforest. To the end of the beaches, you can find coconut palm in the white fine sandy beach and the crystal blue sea.
The island is gifted with turquoise water and many colourful fish, Standing in knee deep water u can witness many colourful fish swimming around your legs and little shark which sometime NIBBLE YOU TOE!! and small baby ray which may make u heart jump if you step on them :P.
To the south of the island where there is a beach separated by rocky edges. You can always find fantastic and colourful coral near the rock.If you want to snorkel there please bring a companion and stay far away and pay more attention when you swim near to the rock as the strong wave here can crash you to the sharp rock .
There are a number of trails leading from one beach to the next overland. you can choose to take the jungle trail. Anyway, all the treks are clearly marked.
The jetty at Teluk Puah, near the entrance of Perhentian Island Resort is an ideal place to go if you want something different than to lay on the lazy chair listen to waves and watching the stars in evening. Here during the evening time, the jetty light attract many squib that u can join in with other tourist and local at the jetty in“candat sotong”or “Jigging for Squib“to fish for squib” as all you need is just a line or a small rope with a hook or a pin and then u can go and BBQ your catch.(pls refer to Pulau Kapas). Sometime there are small metal or rattan cages or “BuBu” in the water with blue sea crabs inside. The BuBu is simple traditional trap set by the islander to catch crab.
The jetty is an ideal place to go if you want more than just laying on the resort lazy chair listening to the crashing waves and watching the evening star
Getting there
First, you must arrive at Kuala Besut for you to take a boat to the islands. To get to Kuala Besut, you can arrive from Kelantan or Kuala Terengganu. If you come from Kuala Terengganu, take a bus or taxi to Jerteh then another to Kuala Besut, or a direct bus to Kuala Besut. The journey will take nearly one and half hour.
Alternately, you can choose to start from Kota Bharu. You can either take a taxi ride or take a bus (leaves every 30 minutes) to Pasir Puteh and then another bus to Besut. Overall, the journey by taxi will take about one hour from Kota Bahru to Besut.
There are direct buses from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Besut which take about 9 hours.Or Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Bharu Aiport (35 minutes) from then on take a airport taxi to the Taxi terminal(25 - 50 minutes of congest Traffic) or Bus terminal(35-45 minutes) and looked for ride to Kuala Besut..
Journey to the islands takes about 30 to 45 minutes by speed boat and one and half hours by slow boat. There are a number of boat operators in Kuala Besut offering boat services to Perhentian Island. The return boat ticket cost RM60.00 per person for speed boat and RM40.00 per person .
Make sure to put heaps of sunscreen and a big thick book for company. The journey are relatively stress-free, Except the bus ride from KL to Kuala Besut, and a 30 min boat ride (fast boat, expect to pay more than the 1 hour slow boat) to Perhentian Kecil..
Warning :
Don't Wear Sunblock and Cream while Diving.This is becouse ,the chemical that are emitted from the Sunblock can kill THE CORAL and other MARINE life.
Please Help Save The Coral!
Spread The Word!!
Where to Stay
Abdul Chalet
Lot 143, Kg. Seb. Tengah,
Pulau Perhentian Besar,
22300 Kuala Besut, Terengganu.
Tel: 09-6911610, 019-9127303
Arwana Perhentian Resort
Lot 181, Teluk Dalam,
Pulau Perhentian Besar,
22300 Kuala Besut, Terengganu
Tel: 09-6911887/8
Faks: 09-6911880
http://www.arwanaperhentian.com.my
Emel: enquiry@arwanaperhentian.com.my
Aur Bay Chalet
PT 435, Pulau Perhentian Kecil,
22300 Besut, Terengganu
Tel: 013-9950817, 019-9858584
Samudera Beach Chalet
Lot 182. Kg. Teluk Dalam,
Pulau Perhentian Besar,
22300 Kuala Besut, Terengganu
Tel: 09-6911677, 013-9006763
Senja Bay Resort Sdn Bhd Coral Bay,
Pulau Perhentian Kecil,
22300 Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia.
el: 09-6911799, 019-2800801, 019-6643105
Faks: 09-6911790
http://www.senjabay.com
Emel: reservations@senjabay.com
Sepadu Chalet
Lot 64, Kg. Tanjung Langgir,
Pulau Perhentian Kecil,
22300 Besut, Terengganu
HP: 010-9834464
The Reef Chalet
Pulau Perhentian Besar,
22300 Kuala Besut, Terengganu
Tel: 09-6911762, 019-9816762
Symphony Chalet
Lot 21, Pasir Panjang,
Pulau Perhentian Kecil,
22300 Besut, Terengganu
Tel: 013-9755935
Watercolours Impiani Island Resort +(Diving Center)
Pantai Petani, Pulau Perhentian Kecil,
Kuala Besut, Terengganu
Tel: 09-6911850, 09-6911857, 019-9113852
Faks: 09-6911851, 09-7479852
http://www.impiani.com
Emel: watercolours.impiani@gmail.com
Watercolours Paradise Chalet
Lot 136, Kg. Seb. Genting,
Pulau Perhentian Besar,
22300 Kuala Besut, Terengganu
Tel: 09-6911852, 09-6911850, 019-9113852
Faks: 09-6911851
http://www.impiani.com
Emel: watercolours.paradise@gmail.com
TourismAgentcy
Perhentian Pelangi Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
712, Jalan Jeti Kuala Besut, Kuala Besut
Tel: 09-6974353
Yaudin Holidays & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
B6, Terminal Pelancong, Kuala Besut
Tel: 09-6974887
Perhentian Sunny Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Lot B9, Terminal Pelancongan Besut, Kuala Besut
Tel: 09-6975854
Lovely Travels & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
No.79, Jalan Pantai Kuala Besut
Tel: 09-6974297/09-6975422
Kuala Besut Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
No. 8, Jalan Pantai, Seberang Barat, Kuala Besut
Tel: 09-6974948
Kuala Besut Connection Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
No.2, Tingkat B, Jalan Pantai, Besut
Tel: 09-6974367/019-9639014
Transpotation
To Pulau Perhentian dan pulau Susu Dara, (Boat service can be found at the Jetty)
Stesen Kereta Sewa Kuala Besut (Kuala Besut, Taxi Station)
22300 Kuala Besut, Besut, Terengganu
Tel: 09-6974294
Stesen Kereta Sewa Bandar Jerteh (Bandar Jerteh, Taxi Station)
22200 Besut, Terengganu
Tel: 09-6979840 Tel: 09-8481744
Perhentian Teksi/Kereta Sewa (Kuala Terengganu Main Taxi Station)
Jalan Masjid Abidin (Infront Pustaka Intan, 200 meter from KT's main Bas Terminal)
20100 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu
Tel: 09-6242694
Persatuan Pemandu-pemandu Teksi/Kereta Sewa (Sultan Mahmud Airport Taxi Station)
Lapangan Terbang Sultan Mahmud,
21300 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu
Tel: 09-6664067
The List are Compile By terengganuhebat
