PERLIS

Perlis Indera Kayangan, is the smallest state in Malaysia. The capital of Perlis is Kangar and the royal capital is Arau. Bordered by the Thai province of Satun in the north, Kedah in the south-east, and lapped by the gentle waters of the Straits of Melaka on its western coastline, Perlis exudes quaint, unspoilt beauty and old rustic charm.

The state economy is dominated by agriculture, with rice, sugar and fruits predominating. Forestry and fishery is also important, and the state is making efforts to attract small and medium scale manufacturing industries.

History

Perlis was a part of Kedah under the Thai Monarchy until the Kedah Sultan took control of it. It briefly reverted to Siamese rule during the war before being handed over to the British and then finally becoming part of Malaysia on Independence Day.

Getting there

By Air : There are no direct flight services to Perlis, but visitors can fly into Alor Setar, Kedah. From there, taxis are available to Kangar, the capital city of Perlis, which takes about 45 minutes.

By Road : Perlis is accessible by car from major points in the Peninsula. Express bus services are also available.

Attractions

Padang Besar

Situated at border of Perlis-Thailand north of Perlis. The place is popular for purchasing items from both countries. There are many duty-free shops and a large range of produce, souvenirs and artifacts on sale here.

Kuala Perlis

The quaint little town of Kuala Perlis is one of the entrance points to Langkawi Island. Watch the life that goes on in the fishing communities or try the amazing seafood.

Tasik Melati

Just 8 km north of Kangar lies this tranquil lake. People often come here to picnic, boat or stroll around the lake. More than 150 unique sand bar islands on the lake, which can be accessed by sampans. Elevated walkways are also found over the waters of the lake, providing vantage viewpoints and seatings for visitors.

Snake Farm

The Perlis snake farm houses an amazing array of snakes and other reptiles. The Snake Farm is a research facility set up to develop anti-venom for snakebites. Housing more than 20 species of snakes, as well as crocodiles and monitor lizards, it is the only snake farm in Malaysia. Visitors can catch the amazing King Cobra resting in their cages or take photographs with tame snakes.


Gua Kelam

Gua Kelam is a mining cave at the northern town - Kaki Bukit, about 20km from Kangar. Gua Kelam Cave is a 370 meter-long cave that is well-lit and easily accessible. The cave was believed to have formed from the erosion of an underground stream. Visitors can admire the unique rock formations or marvel at the fascinating life forms in the cave. This is a not-to-miss spot when you visit to Perlis.

Taman Herba

The Herb Gardens is located close to the Bukit Air Recreational Park. Opened in 1998, this ethno botanical museum now contains over 1,000 species of herbs, spices, and other medicinal plants of local and foreign origin. Visitors can see them, learn about their medical application and watch how they are cultivated in this park. If you wish to, you could even purchase them.

Hutan Lipur Bukit Air

The Bukit Air Recreational Park is located near the Perlis snake farm. Visitors can experience the sights and sounds of a tropical rainforest or bathe in cool streams that meander through the forest. An excellent location for picnics, the park has a camping ground, a car park and all the basic amenities.



Perlis State Museum

This museum is located between Kuala Perlis and Kangar. The museum traces the history of Kedah’s Sultanate, which had close links to the formation of Perlis. Some of the things you can find here include money, artifacts, weapons and ornaments from the old Malay era.

Perlis State Park

The Perlis State Park is located along the Thai-Malaysian border. It encompasses the Mata Ayer and Wang Mu forest reserves. The park is rich in vegetation, trees, extensive caves and jungle streams. This is also the only place in Malaysia where the stump-tailed macaque is found.






For more details, please contact:

Pejabat Tourism Malaysia Negeri Perlis
No 19, Jalan Pengkalan Indah, Taman Pengkalan Indah, Pengkalan Asam, 01000, Perlis
Phone: +604-978 1235 / 1213
Fax : +604-978 1143

PETRONAS TWIN TOWER (KLCC)

Introduction

The Petronas Twin Towers (also known as the Petronas Towers or Twin Towers), was the worlds tallest building, before being surpassed by the Taipei 101 (Financial Center) . Standing 1,483 ft (452 m) high, they were designed by the Argentinean-American architect Cesar Pelli. The whole complex was built on a former horse-racing track. One will be able to observe that the structure is made from steel and glass and is a stark constrast to many other high tower buildings in the city. The crown of the Kuala Lumpur contains a complex of office buildings, conference halls, a sprawling park and an upmarket shopping complex.

Getting To Petronas Twin Towers

The Petronas Twin Towers are in between Jalan Ampang and Jalan Raja Chulan.You can take the PUTRA LRT to KLCC station which is cheaper compared to getting a cab.

Tenants of the Petronas Twin Towers

Tower One is fully occupied by the Petronas Company and a number of its subsidiaries and associate companies. The office spaces in Tower Two are mostly available for lease to other companies. A number of companies have offices in Tower Two, including Accenture, Al Jazeera English, Carigali Hess Bloomberg, Boeing, IBM, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, McKinsey & Co, TCS, Krawler Networks, Microsoft,, Newfield Exploration and Reuters.

Attractions

Skybridge - The bridge is 170m above the ground and 58 m long, weighing 750 tons. The skybridge is open to all visitors, but free passes (limited to 1700 people per day) must be obtained on a first-come, first-served basis. The Skyway is closed on Mondays.

Suria KLCC - the most 'happening' shopping centre in Klang Valley. Suria KLCC has 6 levels of retail outlets, each with its own distinctive character and style.

Aquaria - located at the Concourse levels. A highly interactive world class aquatic exhibition, focusing on education and entertainment.

PETROSAINS -located on level 4 of Suria KLCC, the world class interactive science discovery centre of PETRONAS, science and technology is presented in a fun way.

The KLCC Park - the beautifully landscaped KLCC Park offers a calm and harmonious environment in the midst of the hustle and bustle of a busy and dynamic city.

Masjid Asy-Syakirin - also known as the 'Jewel in the Park'. The mosque can accommodate a congregation of approximately 6,000 people.

Other Amenities

The KLCC Park has been provided with various amenities such as:

-Toilets complete with modern fittings and facilities for the disabled and baby change.
-Male and female changing rooms annexed to the toilet near the Children's Pool.
-Drinking fountains with filtered water.
-Shelters and benches.

Mailing Address:

PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS VISIT OPERATIONS
Concourse Level (Lower Ground Floor),
PETRONAS Twin Towers
Kuala Lumpur City Centre
50088 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia.
E-mail: skybridge@petronas.com.my



PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS GIFT SHOP
Concourse Level,
PETRONAS Twin Towers
Kuala Lumpur City Centre
50088 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia.
Tel: (603) 2051-1320 or (603) 2051 1744
Fax: (603) 2051-1723
E-mail: pettgs@petronas.com.my

PENANG (Pearl Of The Orient)

State Anthem (Malay)


Selamat Tuhan kurniakan
Selamat Pulau Pinang
Negeriku yang mulia
Kutaat dan setia
Aman dan bahagia
Majulah jayalah
Negeriku yang kucinta
Bersatu dan bersama
Untuk negeri kita





Brief History

Penang (Pulau Pinang) needs little introduction to many visitors to Malaysia, having long been known as one of Southeast Asia's finest destinations. Penang is an island off the northern part of the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The name Penang comes from the Malay word Pinang, means the betel nut. The history of Penang began in 1786, when Captain Francis Light struck a deal with the Sultan of Kedah. He acquired Pulau Pinang (Penang Island) from the Sultan on behalf of the East India Company, which in return promised Kedah protection against its powerful neighbours. Today, Penang is fast, furious and alive with culture and people.




Penang Access :

By Air – The Penang International Airport is 16km from Georgetown. Cathay Pacific, Eva Air, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Thai International offer connecting flights.

By Rail – Butterworth is a major station on the north-south railway from Singapore to Bangkok. The ferry terminal to Penang island is within walking distance from the station.

By Driving – Penang is connected to the mainland and the North-South Expressway by Penang Bridge, one of the longest bridges in Asia.


By Ferry - Cross-channel ferry services, provided by the Penang Ferry Service, connect George Town and Butterworth.







Foods

Penang is a center of culture and, more importantly, street food. According to many people, Penang’s food stalls serve some of the world’s finest street fare. The market stalls and food carts are clean. It only takes several blocks to find food to meet anyone’s expectations and tastes. The greatest concentration of food stalls are along Penang Road and also down the streets which intersect it.




Nasi Kandar - an Indian and Muslim curry dish, is one of the heartiest to be found on Penang’s streets. It is a meal of steamed rice which can be plain or mildly flavored, and served with a variety of curries and side dishes. The most famous nasi kandar stalls in Penang are Line Clear and Kassim Restaurant.






Laksa Penang - that consists of noodles in a spicy sour soup. The dish is garnished with cucumber, lettuce, pineapple and onions.

Char Koay Teow - perennial favourite with locals and tourists alike. Flat white noodles are fried together with shrimps, bean sprouts and clams.

Ais Kachang - a mixture of sweet red beans, jelly and corn, heaped over by shaved ice with coloured syrup and a dash of evaporated milk.

Cendol - screwpine flavoured gelatine noodles served cold with shaved ice in palm sugar syrup and coconut milk.


Attractions

Beaches

Penang has attractive beaches that stretch for miles from Tanjong Bungah to Bungah to Batu Ferringhi right up to Telok Bahang. At Tanjong Bungah, the beaches are suitable for swimming.
At the beachfront in Batu Ferringhi several watersports operators provide sailing and para-sailing gear and speed-boating facilities. Telok Bahang is a picturesque stretch of traditional Malay homes with a pier made of wooden stakes. From here, visitors can hire a boat to take them to the unspoilt beaches of Muka Head and Pantai Kerachut (Monkey Beach).

Penang Hill

Penang Hill or affectingly known by locals as "Bukit Bendara", is one of the
only cool places to visit in Penang. A hill with elevation of about 833 m (2723 ft) has
proved that it is one of the main attractions not only to the foreigner but also locals.

The Penang National Park

The Penang National Park (Taman Negara Pulau Pinang) is one of the few natural
forested areas left on the island. It is also currently the world's smallest national
park.

Fort Cornwallis

Fort Cornwallis was one of the first European structures in Penang. After Captain Francis Light officially took possession of the island on August 11th 1786, development of Penang began from this point. Captain Light built a fort as a defense against the French, Kedah, and pirates.


The Snake Temple

The Snake Temple Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia and is perhaps the only temple of its kind in the world. The temple is filled with the smoke of burning incense and a variety of pit vipers. The vipers are believed to be rendered harmless by the sacred smoke, but as a safety precaution, the snakes have also been de-venomed but still have their fangs intact, visitors are warned against picking up the reptiles and placing them on their bodies for taking pictures. Local devotees believe that the temple's snake population has come there of its own accord.

Kapitan Keling Mosque


Named after an Indian Muslim merchant, the "Kapitan Keling" (headman) who was the head of his community in the early 1800s

Penang Bird Park

A five-minute drive from the Penang Bridge, this 2-hectare bird park is home to more than 800 birds of 300 species from all over the world. Be prepared to see the huge birds of prey, pelican and the gigantic cassowaries, emu, and ostriches, all housed in large aviaries in simulated natural surroundings.



Shopping Spot


• Lebuh Campbell: Chinese jewellers, Rolex watches, luggages, clothes, electrical items and Chinese medicines and herbs
• Jalan Mesjid Kapitan Keling: Indian jewellers, money changers and florists
• Chulia Street: Clothes, antiques, framed art and glass items
• Bishop Street: Imported clothes, carpets, antiques and banks
• Penang Road: The entire stretch of Penang Road is lined with shops selling clothes, shoes, imitation perfumes and edible favourites like nutmeg, pickled mangoes, banana chips, cookies and belacan.


Popular shopping malls and complexes are found in Jalan Penang, Jalan Gurney and Tanjong Tokong.



For more details, please contact:

Pejabat Tourism Malaysia Negeri Pulau Pinang, 56th Floor, KOMTAR, Penang 10000
Phone: +604 264 3494 / 263 4941 Fax: +604 262 3688
Email: mtpbpen@tourism.gov.my
















'Fortis Atque Fidelis'
Penang Free School (1990 - 1994)
(Jafrizul Jamhuri, Mazlin Othman, Jaidi Hisham, Farid, Munzir, Baharudin, Syed Asfawira)

TASIK KENYIR, TERENGGANU (ANGLER'S DREAM)

Lake Kenyir (Tasik kenyir) is the largest man-made lake in South East Asia. Sharing its border with Kelantan in the west and Pahang in the south, this immense lake also serves as another gateway to Taman Negara (National Park). When the area was flooded for the construction of the Hydroelectric Power Plant, what were once streams, hills and highlands are now submerged under water. However, the hilltops which stood above the water level were not submerged, thus creating about 340 man-made Islands. Tasik Kenyir is a popular destination for nature lovers as it is surrounded by lush tropical rain forests. The distance from Kuala Terengganu is 80km. Foreign visitor can choose either to landing at Kuala Lumpur International Airport or straight to Sultan Mahmud International Airport.

Kenyir Lake is also home to numerous species of freshwater fishes and exotic wildlife. With a water catchment area of 38000 hectares, the lake is naturally a heaven for freshwater fish. Whether you are new to fishing or an experienced angler, this lake is the perfect spot to get some freshwater fish. A recent study revealed that there are some 300 species of freshwater fish dwelling in the lake. The presence of dead trees around the lake serves as a perfect breeding ground for these fishes. Some of the species of fish that you can find here include:

· Kelah, also known as Malaysian Mahseer
· Lampam Sungai or barboides
· Toman or Snakehead
· Kawan or Friendly barb
· Kalui or Gaint Gouramy
· Kelisa or Green Arowana

Other Activities:

Water Sports : Jet-Skiing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Boating, Rafting

Camping & Jungle Trekking : Trekkers are advised engage a jungle guide

Other Attractions:

Waterfalls : Contain at least 14 waterfalls found & flow rapidly around the lake
(e.g: Sg Buweh, Saok, Lasir, Petang etc)

Herbs Park : Located in Pulau Sah Kecil
More than 200 type of traditional herbs
(e.g: Tongkat Ali, Kacip Fatimah, Misai Kucing etc)

Caves : Bewah & Taat provides the spectacular sights of towering limestone hills.
Located 35km or 90 minutes boat ride from Gawi Jetty

Elephant Sanctuary : Located along Simpang Pulai- Gua Musang-Tasik Kenyir Highway

Kelah Sanctuary : Located at Sg Petang
21km from Gawi Jetty or 40 minutes by speed boat

Resort / Chalet Contact No:

Remis Rakit
609-6812125
019-983-6125

Musang Kenyir Resort
609-6231888
019-9837886
019-9836088

LakeLand Resort
609-6262020

Lake Kenyir Resort & Spa
609-6668888

Kenyir Sanctuary Resort
609-8244360
019-9836105

Federal Government Rest House
603-88887127
019-2828586

Uncle John Resort
609-6883688
013-9026627
013-9604444

Petang Island Resort
609-6221276
609-8222176
013-2860681

Tanjung Mentong Resort
609-6236684
013-9149345

Source from: www.ketengah.gov




For more enquiries, please contact:

Tourist Information Centre
Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin,
20000 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu Darul Iman
Telephone No: 609-622 1553
Fax No: 609-622 1957

Pengkalan Gawi, Tasik Kenyir
Telephone No: 609-626 7788 / 666 8498
Fax No: 609-666 7657 / 666 8979


For more enquiries, please contact:

Tourist Information Centre
Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin,
20000 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu Darul Iman
Telephone No: 609-622 1553
Fax No: 609-622 1957

Pengkalan Gawi, Tasik Kenyir
Telephone No: 609-626 7788 / 666 8498
Fax No: 609-666 7657 / 666 8979

Mount Kinabalu, Sabah

In the history of Mount Kinabalu the name came about from the Kadazan words “aki nabalu” which means “the revered place of the dead.” This name echoes a local axiom that ancestor spirits linger on the summit. Every year local mountain guides carry out religious rites to assuage the spirits during Malaysia tours. The first person to ever make the ascent in the history of Mount Kinabalu was the British crown colony of Labuan’s Colonial Secretary. In 1851 Sir Hugh Low began his Mount Kinabalu climbing expedition and upon completion the peak he first mounted was named after him.

Towering 4,101 metres (13,455 ft) above the mysterious tropical jungles of North Borneo in Sabah, Malaysia, Mount Kinabalu is the majestic centerpiece of Kinabalu Park and is also the highest mountain in South-East Asia. The next two highest peaks being Mount Trus Madi (8,666 feet) and Mount Tambuyukon (8,462 feet) located 50 kilometers south and 20 kilometers north of Mt Kinabalu respectively. A total of six unique major topographical features occur with Kinabalu Park. These include peaks and plateaus, gullies, rivers, streams and waterfalls, hot springs, caves (Paka Caves and the tumbled bats cave at Poring) and granite slabs, a characteristic of the slopes of the summit. One of the reasons Mount Kinabalu mountain climbing is so popular is because climbers of all levels can get to the summit without carrying a backbreaking load of climbing gear during their Malaysia vacation.

The best time to go is from February through April which is the dry season and when the conditions are best. Between August and September there are dry periods also good for Mount Kinabalu mountain climbing during Malaysia holidays. The park is approximately 90km from Kota Kinabalu and the journey takes about 2 hours. Mini buses depart daily from Kota Kinabalu to Ranau, from 6.00am-3.00pm and stop at Kinabalu Park along the way. The fare is RM8.00 one way per person. Bus services regularity depends on season and demand. For transport from Kinabalu Park to Kota Kinabalu, mini buses pass
Kinabalu Park around 8.30am and 12noon - l pm daily. You'll need to stand by the side of the main road to wave them down. The fare to Kota Kinabalu is around RM8.00
Taxis can be chartered from Kota Kinabalu. Fares vary but can be gauged to an average of RM80.00 for four passengers per taxi. It's advisable to negotiate the taxi fare before departure. Groups can charter mini buses from Kota Kinabalu. Prices range from RM224.00 for non air-conditioned 24 seaters to RM300.00 for air-conditioned 28 seaters.
Groups up to 12 people can also charter Land Rovers from Kota Kinabalu. The Land Rovers and minibuses depart Kota Kinabalu for Kinabalu Park around 8.00 am and Kinabalu Park for Kota Kinabalu around 1.00 pm daily.

When planning the ascent, make sure to book well ahead. When you arrive at the park, you’ll have to pay the climbing fee permit, entrance fee and mountain guide fee. You must take a guide as there is no other option. Porters are available for an extra cost as is accommodation and food on the mountain. Other fees include your transportation to the gate where the climb starts, insurance and the certificate upon completion. It is recommended to visitors to spend three days and two nights on Mount Kinabalu to properly acclimatize. Make sure to check all rates thoroughly before committing.

Flora And Fauna:

One of the largest flowers in the world grows here. Its giant red blossom, the Rafflesia, named after Sir Stamford Raffles (who founded Singapore in 1819), can grow to over 170 cm in diameter . Rafflesia emits a foul smell, reminiscent of rotting meat. The stench attracts flies and insects, which the plant then feasts upon. Several bird varieties including the Mountain Bush Warbler, Kinabalu friendly Warbler, palefaced Bilbul and Mountain Blackeyes. More the 250 bird varieties have been recorded. Small mammals which inhabit the mountain include mountain squirrels, tree shrews and bats.

For more info, please contact:

Sabah Parks
Lot 3, Block K, Sinsuran Complex
P.O. Box 10626
88806 Kota Kinabalu
Sabah, Malaysia
Tel: 60-88 211881, 211652, 212719
Fax: 60-88 221001

National Park, Pahang

In the heart of the Titiwangsa Mountain Range, which makes up the central spine of Peninsular Malaysia, lies the country's most important protected area called Taman Negara (which means 'National Park'). Home to Malaysia’s friendly aborigines, the Orang Asli. A shy yet gentle race, they continue to live the nomadic way they’ve lived for centuries although fully aware of the country’s fastest-paced progress.

Taman Negara (National Park) straddles the borders of Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang in Peninsular Malaysia. A totally protected area of 4,343 sq km, Taman Negara is one of the world's oldest tropical rain forests. The diversity of its fauna and flora is a result of undisturbed evolution over 130 million years.

GETTING THERE:

By Road: From Kuala Lumpur, the road journey takes about three hours. Travel to Jerantut by way of Mentakab or Raub. From Jerantut, Kuala Tembeling is sixteen kilometers north. Follow signs from Kuala Tembeling to the jetty.

By Rail: Train services are available from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The train passes Kuala Tembeling. From Kuala Tembeling, there is a half-hour walk to the jetty.

Come discover the living treasure Mother Nature has to offer. Whether it’s shooting thrilling rapids, exploring spectacular caves, tackling a 20-pound fish, scaling up Peninsular Malaysia’s highest mountain, trekking through dense, tricky forest pathways or swimming in crystal clear pools, Malaysia’s National Park is a nature paradise you must experience. An adventure of a lifetime awaits you.




At Taman Negara, you’ll also get Peninsular Malaysia’s highest mountain, Gunung Tahan at 2,187 meters. It is indeed a challenging mountain with dense forest growth, swift-flowing rivers and undulating terrain. It would take approximately 9 days to reach the peak and back. For those with time constraint, Bukit Teresek is a good alternative. The 334-meter hill is located about 1.7 kilometers from the Taman Negara Resort. From the peak of Gunung Teresek, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking view of Gunung Tahan, the forest canopy and the valley below. Another favorite with visitors would be the canopy walkway located just 2 kilometers from the headquarters. The walkway is 500 meters in length and 30 meters above ground level. It gives visitors a great view of the beautiful wilderness from above.


Orang Asli guides can be engaged for excursions to specific areas in the Park, such as the various caves. A visit to the orang Asli settlement is also worthwhile








Guide Notes for Trekkers & Campers :

- Heavy duty gear is recommended for if you intend stay 2 or more days in the jungle. Also if you are on long treks, keep your back packs a light as possible and plan the items that you need to carry.

- Leeches is generally not a major problem but they can be a real nuisance if the weather is wet or the ground is soggy. Insect repellent is normally sprayed on the socks and shoes to keep them at bay.

- The staff manning the Department of Wildlife at Taman Negara Resort should be able provide you with first hand information on the trekking route that you intend to embark on.

- Things to bring - as a general guide - first aid kit, 1 medium/small towel, bathing suite, joggers/walking shoes, slippers/flip-slops, jumper/hat, cups & plates, toiletries, clothing, sleeping bag, insect repellent, comfortable back pack, lighter, water bottle, raincoat and torchlight

- When choosing what clothes to bring, consider their weight (dry or wet!). Avoid
jeans, jacket and other bulky apparel.

Pulau Sipadan, Sabah

Sipadan Island (Pulau Sipadan in Malay) lies off the east coast of Malaysian Borneo. Most travellers fly directly to Tawau with AirAsia, or via Kota Kinabalu with Malaysia Airlines. From Tawau, it’s an hour’s drive to Semporna and a further 45 minutes by boat to Sipadan.

Presently, the island is in the care of Wildlife Department, which has stationed several park rangers to oversee the state of nature of the island. To protect the world unique flora & fauna on the island as well as the underwater world the Malaysian Government has decided that from 2005 no more overnight facilities shall be on Sipadan itself. This means that all dive operators on Sipadan have to move; diving Sipadan will be conducted from other destinations, such as Mabul and Kapalai. It is likely that Sipadan will be designated a marine reserve under Sabah Parks, and there are plans for a World Heritage Site listing.

Although famed for its diving spots, visitors should not miss out on the island's amazing beaches. During low tide you can easily walk around the island in half an hour. Further up from the resort there is a stretch of lonely white beach. As the jungle ends directly at the beach, overhanging trees provide enough shade. You should only watch out for the coral pieces and the shells that are washed ashore and pervaded the beach. It is advisable to bring a pair of sandals along as pieces of corals and seashells are known to have been washed ashore.

During low tide only part of the beach near Pulau Sipadan Resort and the Borneo Divers is suitable for swimming and snorkeling. As the sea retreats, the diving boats from all three islands cannot land on Pulau Sipadan and you can only see the corals of the atoll. Then also the diving boats of the the three last resorts could not land at the beach. During high tide the whole atoll offers excellent snorkeling and swimming opportunities. You can see many fishes, dozens of turtles and if you are lucky, even sharks. Be careful of the strong currents.

Sipadan is well known for its unusually large numbers of green and hawksbill turtles which gather there to mate and nest. It is not unusual for a diver to see more than 20 turtles on each dive at Sipadan Island. Another unique feature is the "Turtle Tomb", underwater limestone cave with a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers that contain many skeletal remains of turtles that became disoriented and then drowned.

Barracuda Point is where a diver may experience the thrill of swimming amidst schooling barracuda and big-eye trevally, which gather in thousands forming spectacular tornado-like formations. With the possibility of seeing pelagic such as mantas, eagle rays and hammerhead sharks, each dive at Sipadan is a highly anticipated event.

The macro life at Sipadan is equally mesmerizing; garden eels, leaf scorpion fish, mantis shrimps, fire gobies and various pipefish are guaranteed at various dive sites. Sipadan also boasts a rich variety of corals; both soft and hard, among these Dendronephyta in delicate pastel colors and feather stars of all shades and hues. The most popular dive spot to view these at Sipadan Island is the Coral Gardens.

April through October is the best time to visit Sipadan Island. The rainy season is November to March. The water temperature ranges from 79 to 86 degrees (26C to 30C) year round.