Natinal Parks in Malaysia

National Parks

There is really no better place in the world to experience exotic flora and fauna in their pristine tropical environment! Malaysia has a range of National Parks from mangrove reserves and tropical rainforests to Marine Parks. Just a few degrees north of the equator, the lush rainforests and the warm oceans set the perfect backdrop to watch wildlife in their natural habitat. It is therefore not surprising that nearly 75% of Malaysia’s land area remains forested, with approximately 60% of that being virgin rainforest. A signatory to the Rio Summit in 1992, Malaysia has pledged to retain a minimum of 50% of its forests and tree cover in perpetuity as its contribution to the global concern for conservation. As one of the twelve mega-biologically diverse countries in the world, Malaysia is able to boast at least 15,000 species of flowering plants, 286 species of mammals, 150,000 species of invertebrates, and 4,000 species of fishes in addition to the countless micro-organisms. Not surprisingly, it is a point of pride for Malaysia that this astonishing level of biodiversity is found in Malaysia’s National Parks. Among the biggest and best-known tropical flora and fauna here are the Sumatran Rhinoceros, the Sun Bear, the Malayan Tiger, the Orangutan, Rainforest Tarantulas and the Proboscis Monkey. Borneo is especially well known for the world’s biggest flower, the Rafflesia. Aside from the diverse flora and fauna, Malaysia’s National Parks also offer a huge range of outdoor activities, from activities as challenging as white water rafting and rock climbing to pastimes as calm as bird watching and river cruising. Experienced outdoor professionals, who are well equipped with the latest gear, can guide you through all of these activities. If you are looking for rich and exotic outdoor experiences in balmy tropical weather, the time is now, the place is Malaysia.

Key Tips

Take note of the rainy season when planning excursions and always bring along rain gear. Although the weather can be unpredictable, the monsoon season falls from September to December on the West Coast of the Peninsula. There is a distinct monsoon on the East Coast from December to February, while the rainy season in Borneo takes place in the first quarter of the year.

National Park Attractions

Pulau Payar Marine Park This beautiful marine park features underwater wonders coupled with great facilities to get you closer to nature. Taman Negara Taman Negara (National Park) is the first and the oldest national park in the country and is filled to the brim with exciting eco-tourism activities. Kenong Rimba Park This 120 sq. km. forest park is a sprawling area of lowland forest rising to the limestone hills bordering Taman Negara. Niah National Park The most magnificent limestone caves are concealed within this sprawling jungle. Penang National Park Catch the Green turtles (Apr – Aug) and the Olive Ridley (Sept–Feb) at a turtle hatchery in Pantai Kerachut, in the smallest national park in Malaysia. Batang Ai National Park The park's vast rainforest is home to wildlife such as orang utans, gibbons and hornbills. It also contains a five-star hotel. Lambir Hill National Park Stunning sandstone hills and emerald green pools make this a picturesque getaway. Danum Valley The beautiful Danum Valley is a huge conservation area incredibly rich in flora and stunning views. Similajau National Park This 30km long coastal park is home to some of Sarawak's finest beaches. Gunung Gading National Park The chief attraction at Gunung Gading is the giant Rafflesia blossom. This is one of the best places in Borneo to see this rarity. Bako National Park Gazetted in 1957, Bako is Sarawak’s oldest national park, covering an area of 2,727 hectares at the tip of the Muara Tebas peninsula. Tanjung Piai National Park Tanjung Piai is an environmental sanctuary, made up of coastal mangroves and is home to unique mangrove dwellers. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park Comprising five beautiful islands with good facilities, beaches and snorkelling, just a 10-minute boat ride from the capital Kota Kinabalu. Tanjung Datu National Park Although small, this park protects both coral reefs and virgin rainforests - which lie just 100m from each othe

Diving in Malaysia

Diving

Malaysia is fast becoming one of the leading dive destinations of the world with one of the richest marine environments in the Indo-Pacific Basin. The incredible bio-diversity of marine life, coupled with beautiful islands, white sandy beaches and clear warm waters, keeps divers coming back time and time again. Top dive sites around Malaysia include diverse underwater geography such as sloping reefs, coral blocks, wall dives, deep dives, drift dives and wreck dives. A dip below the warm sea’s surface guarantees you an astounding experience, with a concentration of vibrant and exotic marine life rarely rivalled anywhere else in the world. From schooling Hammerhead Sharks, to huge schools of barracudas and various species of turtles, to the bizarre Frogfish and Ghost Pipefish, there is always something fascinating awaiting you. It's no exaggeration to say that almost every time a marine bio-diversity survey is conducted in Malaysia’s tropical seas, the species list increases! Dive centres in Malaysia are numerous, well equipped and certified by all the internationally recognised dive agencies like PADI, SSI and SSAC for maintaining their standards of safety and professionalism. Naturally, all scuba diving courses in Malaysian waters are also endorsed by these certifying agencies. After completing your scuba course, get outfitted with the latest scuba equipment as all international brands are available from dive centres in Malaysia. Almost all the islands in Malaysia cater to divers of all levels of experience - be it easy, shallow drift-diving, to advanced wreck-diving or technical diving. Located in the heart of the Indo-Pacific basin, the heart of the world's richest marine biodiversity area, Malaysia also offers pristine beaches and professional dive centres for the pleasure and safety of the advanced and novice diver. For a most memorable diving holiday, the time is now, the place is Malaysia.

Key Tips

If you plan to do some diving out here, you should try to book a package with an operator that would include diving, food and accommodation. It's a good way to save money. Also, the sea gets rough and murky during the east coast's monsoon (November - March), so try to time your visit outside of this period.

Diving Attractions

Layang Layang Island Unique reef topography out in the middle of the South China Sea near this island makes this a diver's dream come true. Pulau Redang Sheltered within the Pulau Redang Marine Park, the coral reefs here are rich in marine life. Mabul Island Luxury chalets on stilts and shallow reefs that offer world-class diving put this island resort in a class of its own. Lang Tengah Island Pulau Lang Tengah is a very small and beautiful island located between Perhentian Island and Redang Island. Pulau Tiga Marine Park A park consisting of three islands and the crystal-clear surrounding sea beckon divers from around the world. Pulau Rawa Famed for its white sand and coral reefs with neon-coloured fish, Pulau Rawa is also an easily accessible island. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park Comprising five beautiful islands with good facilities, beaches and snorkelling, just a 10-minute boat ride from the capital Kota Kinabalu. Pulau Kapas If you're looking for the perfect island getaway, then a visit to Pulau Kapas in Terengganu is a must. Tioman Island The turtle-shaped Pulau Tioman is the largest and most impressive of the east coast islands. Pulau Tenggol This tiny island, filled with rocky cliffs that extend down into the ocean, keep divers coming back. Pulau Aur Nestled within the Johor Marine Park Area, the deep waters around the area ensure good visibility and a large variety of marine life. Lankayan Island This tiny jungle-clad, tranquil island has earned a reputation as being one of the best dive sites in Asia. Pulau Perhentian Popular among Malaysian and international travellers alike, this blissful island is surrounded by clear waters rich in marine life. Sipadan Island This watery Garden of Eden is rightly billed as one of the world's greatest diving destinations. Pantai Bisikan Bayu (Beach of Whispering Breeze) Gentle breezes sweep in off the South China Sea along Kelantan's longest stretch of beach. Langkawi This cluster of 99 islands offers beautiful beaches, world-class infrastructure, ultra-cheap duty-free shopping and fascinating legends. Pulau Payar Marine Park This beautiful marine park features underwater wonders coupled with great facilities to get you closer to nature. Labuan Wreck Diving Several excellent wrecks offer intrigue for both novice and experienced divers.