INTERESTING PLACES IN MALAYSIAPULAU SIPADAN ISLAND (SABAH)Sipadanis the onlyoceanic islandinMalaysia, rising 600 metres (2,000ft) from the seabed. It is located in theCelebes Seaoff the east coast ofSabah,East Malaysia(which is on the island ofBorneo). It was formed by livingcoralsgrowing on top of an extinctvolcanic conethat took thousands of years to develop. Sipadan is located at the heart of theIndo-Pacific basin, the centre of one of the richest marine habitats in the world. More than 3,000 species of fish and hundreds of coral species have been classified in this ecosystem. Sipadan has been rated by many dive journals as one of the top dive destinations in the world.

Hawksbill Turtle.Frequently seen in the waters around Sipadan:greenandhawksbill turtles (which mate and nest there), enormous schools ofbarracudain tornado-like formations as well as large schools ofbig-eye trevally, andbumphead parrotfish. Pelagic species such asmanta rays,eagle rays,scalloped hammerhead sharksandwhale sharksalso visit Sipidan.A turtle tomb lies underneath the column of the island, formed by an underwaterlimestonecavewith a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers that contain many skeletal remains of turtles that become lost and drown before finding the surface.

HISTORYIn the past, the island was at the center of aterritorial disputebetweenMalaysiaandIndonesia. The matter was brought for adjudication before theInternational Court of Justiceand, at the end of 2002, the Court awarded the island along with the island ofLigitanto Malaysia, on the basis of the "effective occupation" displayed by the latter's predecessor (Malaysia's former colonial power, theUnited Kingdom) and the absence of any other superior title. ThePhilippineshad applied to intervene in the proceedings on the basis of its claim to Northern Borneo, but its request was turned down by the Court early in 2001. OnApril 23,2000, 21 people were kidnapped by theFilipinoIslamistterroristgroupAbu Sayyaf. The armed terrorists arrived by boat and forced 10 tourists and 11 resort workers at gun point to board the vessels and brought the victims toJolo. All victims were eventually released.If youre an avid diver, Im sure you have heard ofSipadanIsland, no matter where in the world you are from. Sipadan island itself is quite small and you can even walk around its entirety in under 30 minutes although it does house a large bird sanctuary which is definatly worth a visit. The underwater world around Sipadan is far more expansive with miles of coral and sights you wont be able to see anywhere else in the world. The diving around Sipadan is one of earths most recent discoveries made famous by legendary diver Jacques Cousteau. He said about Sipadan I have seen other places like Sipadan, 45 years ago, but now no more. Now we have found an untouched piece of art. And he was right.

The Malaysian Government are very proud and protective over Sipadan so they only allow a select few people to receive dive permits to visit Sipadans dive sites on a daily basis. No one is allow to stay on Sipadan Island itself but people are allowed to stay on the two beautiful neighboring islands ofMabulandKapalaiwhich by themselves offer fantastic muck diving, so much so that when Wikipedia gives its definition of muck diving they use Mabul and Kapalai islands as examples. You can also stay on mainland Borneo in a town calledSemporna, if you are looking for cheaper alternatives for your diving vacation. If you are after a vacation which isnt all diving, we would really recommendMataking island. Mataking is around 80 minutes by boat from Sipadan but is a whole top class resort all by itself with all the usual commodities you would expect from a resort of this standard. Have a read of each of these locations below to see which suits your needs best and if you have any question pleasecontact usand we will be happy to help you.

PULAU SIPADAN ISLAND(SABAH)

Acknowledged as one of the best diving and unique spots in Southeast Asia, Pulau Sipadan is located off the small coastal town of Semporna on Sabah's eastern coast. Just 15 feet from the beach, the water turns indigo blue as the sea drops abruptly to 2,850ft deep! It is rather awe-inspiring. Myriad of colorful tropical fish swim in the warm water near the surface whereas huge groupers nose about. Moreover, the water gets so dark that one would not really know what lurks below. This famous feature won Sipadan island a "Best Beach Dive in the World" award in 1993.The sea is overflowing with marine life. The main attraction for divers is the rich and unique variety of corals both soft and hard. Reef fish of every shape and hue can be found in these waters. Colorful butterfly fishes, angel fishes, damsel fishes of electric blue and bright orange colors inhabit the coral reefs, thus adding to the splendor of the underwater havens.Between April and September, the Green and Hawksbill turtles will come ashore in droves to nest in the soft golden sands of Sipadan. When you dive during this time, you are bound to encounter these harmless denizens of the deep.A beautiful white-sand beach fringes Sipadan but the real beauty of this island is in its waters. The season for diving is from mid-February to mid-December. Visibility ranges from 60 feet to over 200 feet. Several dive spots have even been identified and given exotic names after the variety of corals and marine life that are unique to these spots. There is the "Hanging Gardens", the "Barracuda Point", and the exciting "Turtle Cavern".Professional diving companies operate on the island, complete with water, electricity, food, drinks, and comfortable accommodation for an unforgettable experience. To get there, one can take the 45-minute boat ride from Semporna

MABUL ISLAND(SABAH)

Mabul Island is just 20 minutes by boat away from Sipadan island and 30 minutes from Malaysian Borneos mainland. The island is covered with tall palm trees, white sandy beaches and the crystal clear blue waters that surround it. As soon as you arrive at the island you will realize why so many people refer to the area as paradise and is an ideal location for divers and non-divers alike. Mabul Island is the most common place for people to stay when they visit Sipadan as there are many choices of accommodation and very easy access to Sipadans dive sites.KAPALAI ISLAND(SABAH)

Its quite difficult to refer to Kapalai island as an actually island as its completely submersed for most of the day, its only during low tide that the island actually breaks the waters surface to become an island. Even so kapalai is located closer to sipadan than Mabul and houses the beautiful Kapalai Island dive resort and is unrivaled for its muck diving

MATAKING ISLAND(SABAH)

Mataking Island is ideal for those of you who want to dive but also want to experience all the usual activities one might want from a vacation. With over 30 dive sites around the island and daily trips to Sipadan island (around 80 minutes by boat), its definatly no slouch when it comes to diving but with activities like mini golf, ocean kayaking, beach soccer, volleyball, karoke, handycrafts, fishing, kite flying, childrens playground, coconut bowling and much, much more, its definatly fun for the whole family.POM POM ISLAND(SABAH)

The island of Pom Pom is located around 45 minutes by boat from the town of Semporna on the mainland in the South China Sea. The island is covered in rich tropical vegetation and is surrounded by white sand and turquoise waters.Pom Pom Islandis ideal for those of you who are looking for a relaxing vacation in a paradisiac setting. You can experience many different activities such as snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, beach volleyball, beach soccer, bike riding and of course diving.

SEMPORNA(SABAH)Semporna is located on the mainland Malaysian Borneo and its the town that everyone visiting the sipadan islands resorts would need to pass through to arrive at their destinations. If your after a budget diving vacation then this should be your choice. Rooms prices start around 100RM (approx. 30USD) per night and all hotels and backpackers offer daily diving trips to Sipadan as well as offering various PADI dive courses to suit every level of diver.

PULAU BESAR (MERSING)

The name, Pulau Besar (formerly known as Pulau Babi Besar) is strange to many despite its idyllic beaches and stunning natural beauty. The island which is surrounded by Pulau Rawa, Pulau Sibu & Pulau Tinggi is characterized by quiet, clean beaches of powdery white sand that promises an amazingly spectacular view.Pulau Besar is fringed by crystal-clear azure waters that people can actually catch sight of the abundant reefs. To preserve the unspoiled marine life, the Government has gazetted it as a marine park to protect around 60 species of marine life from any activities that can harm their natural habitats within 2 nautical miles around the island.Rich hues of wild vegetations are dappled throughout with the lush greens of the coconut palms and tropical jungles. There are about 7 8 small villages that are still populated by around 100 friendly dwellers who are mostly fishermen.Another myth was about a fisherman couple who transformed into mermaids. This legend is so popular among the local folks that they believed at one time, a pregnant fishermans wife was craving for a kind of seaweed, that is plentiful in the Mersing waters. After eating, she turned into a mermaid and the heartbroken husband became one too after eating the same seaweed. Until today, it is claimed that mermaids floating in couples can sometimes be spotted eating seaweed around the island. During low tide, tourists can see nibbling marks on the island rocks that proves the existence of the mammals.Rising some 2,000 feet above the sea level. One of the largest islands off the coast of Mersing. Surrounded by 15 scattered islands. Several long streches of finest beaches with fine, soft white sand fringe the island carefully hidden from the outside world. A place irresistable to those who seek tranquility admidst charm of a village setting. The area houses most exotic coral reefs and underwater flora as well as numerous chalet and restaurant. Besar island is accesible by boat from Mersing town (approximately 30 minutes).In the Mersing waters, there are at least 15 small and scattered islands and each is unique in its own way. All the while, tourists have only been accustomed to the popularity of Pulau Tioman in Pahang and Pulau Pemanggil in Johor which actually are situated within the same area.Here, you can find many species of giant cockle that live on the ocean floor and 6 of them can only be found around Mersing waters. A number of the surrounding islands such as Pulau Aur, Pulau Pemanggil, Pulau Tinggi and Pulau Rawa have been identified as new habitats for the new generation of the giant cockles that have a lifespan of 70 years, 1-metre long shell and can weigh as much as 200 kilograms. Tourists will be able to set their eyes on these lovely shelled-creatures while snorkeling in the breathtakingly picturesque underwater.Pulau Besar is surrounded by vistas so beautiful that even a number of foreign TV stations have flocked the island to savor the natural wonders and treasured them in films. In fact, a short time ago, a Hollywood film, Ocean Lifeguard, had chosen Pulau Besar as its main shooting location.This island got its former name, Pulau Babi Besar, (directly translated as Big Boars Island) from the numerous wild boars that roamed the island before man inhabited the place. Surprisingly, there is not a single boar on the island at present and thus, the reason for the change of name to Pulau Besar.

PORT DICKSON

More popularly known as PD, Port Dickson is synonymous with sun and fun on the beach. Situated a mere 32km from Seremban and60km from Kuala Lumpur, PD has long been a weekend retreat for many inland dwellers, especially those from the city seeking temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of a hectic and stressful life.Originally a town where charcoal was made and was once called Arang, it was later sought to be developed as a port. While it never did develop into a full-fledged port, PD's popular beaches attract thousands of weekend visitors from the cities.PD's main attraction is its 18km stretch of white sandy beaches that extend from Tanjung Gemuk in the north to Tanjung Tuan in the south. These are carefully protected by rows upon rows of casuarina palms, coconut trees, and elegant Bayan trees. Located near Cape Rachado (Tanjung Tuan), Blue Lagoon is the most famous picnic spot and is an excellent spot for the water sport enthusiast.PD usually comes alive in August each year during the "Pesta Port Dickson". This annual event draws in crowds from all over the country. This would be one great time to visit PD's beaches as there would be several activities and cultural events relating to the life of the locals.Accommodation should pose no problem for the visitor as this resort town has a place to stay for all. Accommodation can be found in the form of government chalets, hotels, and bungalows or even privately owned apartments that are rented out at reasonable rates. Food stalls can also be easily found along the beaches, as well as the town center. Being a seaside resort, PD's specialty would naturally be seafood.With frequent buses, commuter trains, and taxis plying between Kuala Lumpur and the resort, Port Dickson's appeal lies in its easy accessibility and the attractions of a beach getaway.

CAPE RACHADO (TANJUNG TUAN)Cape Rachado is renowned for its lighthouse that was reputedly built by the Portuguese in the 16th Century, which guides ships into the Straits of Malacca. This lighthouse that is built on a hillock overlooking the straits is until today still operational! On a clear day, one can see PD town and the outline of Sumatra across the Straits from this vantage point. Flocks of migrating sparrows, honey buzzards, swifts, hawks, and eagles stop over here between the months of September and March every year. Then there is a spot here where the legendary 15th Century Malay warrior of the Malacca Sultanate, Hang Tuah, was supposed to have set foot.

GENTING HIGHLAND

2,000 meters above sea level, Genting Highlands, a magnificent city on the hilltop, is but a mere 50km from Kuala Lumpur. It offers a cool respite from the hustle and bustle of the city capital. Crisp invigorating mountain air complemented by majestic scenery spreads out before your eyes. Lush green tropical rainforest shrouded in a veil of perpetual mist makes it hard to believe that you are just minutes away from the sweltering equatorial heat and the ever dusty city. Here, consistent temperatures between 16 and 23 degrees provide natural air conditioning.Genting Highlands Resort offers the bountiful harvest of nature together with a staggering potpourri of international standard facilities. Besides the cool air and scenic surroundings, this hilltop city also houses the country's one and only casino. However, one should not underestimate its value as this casino has been featured in many films produced by Hong Kong, Taiwan, and even Hollywood. Besides the casino, this hilltop resort also has a theme park of its own and an entertainment center.

PEDU LAKEPedu Golf & Lake Resort

Located approximately 5km from the Malaysian-Thai border, Pedu Lake is an ideal vacation spot for both young and old. A massive development plan has changed this 12km-long lake into a premier holiday resort, which is second to none in the world. Settled in the midst of the dense rainforest of Gunung Fakir Terbang and surrounded by an undulating terrain, this magnificent lake offers a serenity that is unmatched, a landscape that is beautiful beyond words, and a refreshingly cool environment. With its peaceful and tranquil environment, Pedu Lake is an ideal location for unwinding even under the midday sun. Just by reading your favorite novel under swaying coconut palm trees in the cool breezy mountain air can bring such simple pleasure.Pedu Lake has the ability to bring peace and quiet in one's life. Imagine getting away from traffic jams or air and noise pollution. The entire world is at your feet. Furthermore, the crystal clear waters offer an ideal venue for water sports' lovers. One can jet ski, canoe, water-ski, or even windsurf. Apart from water sports, one can also golf, fish, camp, watch birds, and jungle trek.For those interested in jungle trekking, it can be done by going into the inner depths of the jungle around Pedu Lake. One can discover and admire its well-protected flora and fauna. The lush jungle is home to a large population of wild animals, which includes elephants, deer, wildboar, leopards, birds, bats, flying foxes, and not forgetting the different types of insects. The jungle is also a sanctuary for a special breed of "albino snakes" although it takes a lot of patience and luck to come across one. The rich wildlife in Pedu Lake's jungle has prompted the Kedah Government to designate part of Pedu Lake and its surrounding areas as a wildlife sanctuary. This has opened a new dimension in eco-tourism, which is uniquely special to the Pedu Lake region. Hides and canopy walks have also been created to enable tourists and nature lovers to have a taste of adventure in the wilds.Another unique natural attraction offered is "swarm" hunting as the jungle is home to millions of giant honeybees called "Appis Dorsata". The honeybees have a particular tree in the jungle called the "Tualang Tree", which happens to be their favorite tree for setting up home. Hundreds of hives can sometimes be found on the tree. Watching these honeybees swarming back to their hives at sundown is a thrilling experience that is too good to be missed. However, it would be wise to engage in the services of special guides to go on this "swarm" hunting adventure, as well as to see the natives in the jungle collecting wild honey from the honeybees.Visitors should also not limit their adventures to daytime alone. When night falls and silence descends, one can hear the crackling calls of jungle insects, the occasional hooting of night owls, and the strange cries of wild animals. It is a world where the nocturnal animals dominate. Yet the moon high above the lake and the shimmering surface of the lake provides such peaceful and romantic feelings.For the more pampered tourists, there are two superb holiday resorts to cater to their needs. Pedu Golf and Lake Resort and the Desa Utara Pedu Lake are two international resorts, which have laid claim to the fringes of Pedu Lake. Both provide beautifully structured chalets for visitors' perusal. They also provide all the modern facilities and amenities that are normally associated with top-class international resorts, including an 18-hole golf course. The Kedah State Economic Planning Unit and Berjaya Pedu Lake Resort are also planning to develop more chalets in Pedu Lake.Pedu Lake has so much more to offer to us. Nature lovers have the entire jungle at their disposal to discover the hidden secrets of the tropical forests. Vacationers have the beauty all to themselves. One can never tire of this place.

TAMAN NEGARA

Sanctuary to hundreds of species of birds, butterflies, insects, and fish.

Spanning 4,343 sq. km and sprawled across the mountainous interiors of Kelantan, Pahang, and Terengganu is Taman Negara, Malaysia's premier national park. Formerly known as King George V National Park, the area was declared a national park by the three sultans of the above mentioned states as early as 1939 for the sole purpose of protecting and preserving the flora and fauna indigenous to this area.This is seen as a natural move as Taman Negara is thought to be one of earth's oldest rain forest, with a history that stretches back to 130 million years ago. Undisturbed for a millennia, it maintains a natural habitat for a variety of flora and fauna, many of which have become highly specialized and are inter-linked with other species in both parasitic and symbolic ways. Although Malaysia has promoted Taman Negara as a popular tourist destination, the government has, over the years, taken careful steps to ensure its continuous conservation.Lush riverine vegetation and trees that form a giant canopy above you plays a warm welcome to the start of a great adventure into an unknown and mysterious world that is reputably older than that of the Congo and Amazon.Within this area, around the central masif of Gunung Tahan (the Peninsula's highest peak at 2,187 meters), there are countless limestone hills covered in thick forest, fast running streams, and abundant wildlife. Mind you, the rain forest is not a quiet place. In some respects it is as noisy as any big city with a cacophony of insect noises, bird calls, and animal cries that goes on night and day. This makes it a particularly favorable destination for trekking as the park's biodiversity is matched by a good network of jungle trails and the availability of expert guides.The Park at a Glance

Size:4,343 sq. km.Highest Point :Gunung Tahan (2,187 meters).Flora Fauna :Over 10,000 species of plants, 350 species of birds. Local mammals include mouse deer, barking deer, tapirs, wild boars, elephants, leopards, tigers, and monkeys.Recreation :Bird watching, cave exploration, jungle trekking, white-water rafting, fishing, guided nature walks, mountain climbing, and more.Getting ThereJerantut, a town in Pahang, is the main entry point to the park.By Road :The journey take approximately 3 - 4 hours form Kuala Lumpur or Kuantan via private or public transport (e.g. taxi, bus, rented cars).By Rail :The train service run by Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) is available.By Air :A 45 minute flight is available form Kuala Lumpur. From Jerantut, the only way to the park is by river. The 3 - 3 1/2 hour ride upstream Sungai Tembeling is in itself an adventure.

Orang Asli SettlementsOne such settlement is Kampong Young where visitors can get better insight of Malaysia's friendly aboriginal people, the "Batek", who are a shy yet gentle race. Although fully aware of the country's fast paced developments, they continue to hunt and survive in the wilds.Bird WatchingBird watchers, prepare to feast your eyes! With over 350 species of birds, which include Kingfishers, Pheasarits, Drongos, Malkohas, Blue-throated bee-eaters, Broadbills, and the exotic Malayan Pied Hornbill, the park is naturally a bird watcher's haven. Commonly seen are hornbills. Fireback pheasants may be spotted along jungle trails while fishing eagles and kingfishers usually feed along the riverbanks. Sungai Tahan remains a favorite habitat of the masked finfoot. The keen bird watcher will surely not leave the park without spotting a few of these reputed species.Cave ExplorationCave exploring, also known as " spelunking", is definitely worth a try when you visit the park. Encounter spectacular rock formations and a great variety of life within the mystifying interiors of the numerous caves hare. Among the more popular caves are Gua Kepayang, Gua Daun Menari (Dancing Leaf Cave), and Gua Telinga (Ear Cave). Gua Telinga, being the most famous of them is carved through a limestone outcrop by a stream, which runs through the cave. Ancient drawings on the wall of the cave speak of a mysterious past. You will also find giant toads and bat-eating snakes who have lived in Malaysia's jungle since prehistoric times.White Water RaftingChallenging the rapids is a must for thrill-seekers! Travel upstream from Kuala Tahan on Sungai Tembeling and experience 45 minutes of sheer thrill and excitement as you and your boat-mates negotiate seven sets of swirling rapids. Hang on tight to your seat and be prepared to get drenched for this 9.1km ride of your life!AnglingLand your catch. Fishing enthusiasts would find Taman Negara an angler's haven with the many riversand streams that run through it. Make a trip to the upper reaches of the Tahan or Kenyam rivers. The latter is the most popular spot for fishing while the more placid waters of the pools at the lower reaches of the former are also known to be teeming with fishes. The "Kelah" (Sceleropages Formosus), a fast and agile fish that weighs as much as 20 lb., offers an irresistible challenge to even the experience angler as it has been known to put up a terrific fight when caught. The months of February, March, July and August prove to be the best times to fish.Wild Life ObservationThe myriad of wildlife at the park can be seen and photographed from the many observation hides that are available here. If primates are your cup of tea, be prepared for some stiff necks as you look out for them among tree tops. The long-tailed macaque inhabit the riverbanks while the leaf monkey may be spotted on upper branches of trees. Family groups of gibbons and siamang stick to the forest canopy from which their loud chatter may be heard. Found inhabiting the lowland are mammals, which include the Malayan gaur or seladang, sambar deer, barking deer, wild pigs, tapir, elephants, tigers, leopards, sun bears, and the Sumatran rhinoceros. However, sightings of these mammal species are quite rare due in part to the density of vegetation and the shy nature of these animals. Observe the wildlife as darkness descends around you. This is a nocturnal activity well worth the effort. There are 6 hides scattered around the park. Within the relative safety of these hides that overlook salt licks and clearings, visitors get a chance to observe the animals as they quench their thirst licking up water and soil for essential salts in their body.Jungle Trekking and Jungle WalksNothing beats a closer look at the 10,000 or more species of flora that can be found in the jungle paradise. The more active may prefer a tougher challenge of jungle trekking along the numerous trails in the park. Trekking along these trails may take as long as 9 days and require a certain level of fitness, but for some, it is a more rewarding experience of an authentic jungle adventure.Alternatively, for those who prefer less excitement, jungle walks amidst sheer tranquility may be more advisable. Opt for leisurely walks through the lowland forest along scenic jungle paths beautifully landscaped by Mother Nature. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the jungle as you cross clear bubbling streams beneath the shades of century old trees. A short walk of 1.5km (from the resort) brings you to the Canopy Walkway, a suspension bridge of strong ropes, cable, net, and wood. Installed about 30 meters high and stretching over 400 meters, this is the world's longest canopy walkway. From here, you get a closer look at life at the top of the world's oldest rainforest.Mountain ClimbingScale the Peninsula's highest peak. Gunung Tahan offers the heady excitement and challenge of mountain climbing to the adventurous. The trail leading up to the peak is 55km from the Taman Negara Rasort. The climb is strenuous and demands sound physical and mental fitness as the journey up and down the mountain takes and average of 9 days. Previous jungle trekking experience would, of course, be an added advantage although not a prerequisite.