Sibu Island

A group of Sibu island lies only 30 minutes from the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. The scenic cluster of islands is made up of Pulau Sibu Besar, Pulau Sibu Tengah, Pulau Sibu Hujung, Pulau Kukus and Pulau Tinggi, “Pulau” being the Malay word for island. These islands are rich in natural beauty and sea turtles crawl ashore here in July to lay their eggs. The panoramic sea views, the coral reefs and the white sandy beaches make Sibu a special place, where the only risk is to fall in love with the idyllic island life.

Sibu Island is a pleasant hideaway with its lush tropical vegetation, endless stretches of golden beaches and clear blue waters. The island is also dotted with numerous sea caves carved out of rocks. There are the numerous outdoor activities on this island while fishing trips being particularly popular. Scuba diving is also a good option as this area was designated a Marine Park in 1993 for the conservation of the marine life in the surrounding water.

Tourists can go for a hike through the jungle leading to unspoilt mangrove swamps or visit the kelong, or jetty, where anchovies are caught. Alternatively, head for the kampung, or village, to get a first-hand look at how coconuts are smoked to make copra.

You can catch a boat ride to Sibu Island from Tanjung Leman jetty, south of Mersing. Tanjung Leman is on the east coast of Malaysia, in the state of Johor. It is 2 hours northeast of Johor Bahru and 45 minutes south of Mersing. Sibu Island is about a 20- minute boat ride away from Tanjung Leman.