You don’t have to wait till Visit Terengganu 2017 to experience the east coast’s best beaches, islands and top-notch diving
Visit Terengganu 2017 will see the east coast state of Peninsula Malaysia vying for a big piece of the tourism pie. Despite its many charms and attractions, Terengganu has largely attracted divers, many of whom travel to the state to jump into the waters off its many islands like the better-known Redang and Perhentian. However, Terengganu is more than just diving, boasting unique attractions that are just waiting to be uncovered. Best of all, you don’t need to wait an entire year to enjoy them either.
Terengganu’s islands
Perhentian, Redang, Tenggol, Lang Tengah: divers and island lovers are virtually spoilt for choice in Terengganu as each of the many islands that pepper the coast carry with them their own unique appeal. The exotic twin islands of Perhentian are widely popular owing to its many budget-friendly properties and white sandy beaches while Redang is famously known for its breath-taking sunsets and peaceful surroundings. Each island is easily accessible via boat from various jetties around the state like Kuala Besut and Kuala Dungun.
Fish For Squid
Candat sotong or squid jigging is a popular pastime and tourist activity in Terengganu. Pulau Kapas and Pulau Gemia are hotspots for the activity and they’re easily accessible by a short speedboat ride. Taking place at night, squid fishing involves going out to the open sea and dropping hooks tied to nylon lines. Each boat is illuminated by florescent lamps, which draw the squid up to the surface. Both islands are also part of the gazetted Marine Park and boasts abundant marine life and coral formations.
Boat Building
One of the key attractions of the state has been the traditional boat makers that still ply their trade. They form an important linkage to Malaysia’s rich and vibrant heritage of arts and craft. The boat makers of Terengganu still build boats the traditional way with skills passed through generations of master builders. A popular attraction for visitors, watching these builders masterfully put together boats without the aid of machinery or plans are something to marvel at.
Turtle Watching
From May to September, the green turtles return to lay their eggs on the Teluk Mak Nik coastline. This has created a buzz amongst nature lovers, who throng the area to witness this miracle of wildlife. The activity though is highly regulated as to not stress out the animals and there are many volunteer programs put together by NGOs to help sustain this natural attraction as well.
Taman Tamadun Islam
Located on the island of Wan Man, the Islamic Heritage Park covers over 23 hectares and houses 21 replicas of buildings related to world Islamic history. Some of the key highlights of the park include the models of the Malaysian National Mosque, Palestine’s Dome of the Rock, Masjidil Haram in Saudi Arabia, Spain’s Alhambra Citadel and India’s Taj Mahal. In addition to taking visitors on an interactive exploration of the world’s main Islamic destinations, the park also houses the iconic Crystal Mosque, a prominent landmark of the state capital.
