Why the Perhentian Islands Are Southeast Asia’s Best-Kept Secret—And Why You Must Visit Now Before Everyone Finds Out!

The Perhentian Islands, located off the east coast of Malaysia, are a true tropical paradise, yet they remain one of Southeast Asia’s best-kept secrets. These islands are known for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and untouched natural beauty. With peaceful beaches, abundant marine life, and a relaxed vibe, the Perhentian Islands offer the perfect escape for those looking to experience the real beauty of Malaysia without the crowds. In this guide, we will explore why the Perhentian Islands should be at the top of your travel list, and how to make the most of your trip to this stunning destination.

Where Are the Perhentian Islands?

The Perhentian Islands are located in the South China Sea, just off the northeastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The islands are part of the Terengganu state and are known for their remarkable marine park, which is protected by Malaysia’s government to preserve the coral reefs and sea life. The two main islands, Perhentian Besar (Big Perhentian) and Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian), are the most popular for travellers.

While Perhentian Besar tends to be quieter and more suited to families or couples, Perhentian Kecil is a favourite for backpackers and those seeking a more vibrant, social atmosphere. The islands are easily accessible by boat from Kuala Besut on the mainland. This simplicity, combined with the lack of major roads and airports, makes the Perhentians feel like a true getaway — an oasis far from the noise and bustle of big cities.

Why Are the Perhentian Islands So Special?

The Perhentian Islands stand out for their stunning natural beauty, and there are several reasons why they are considered a hidden gem in Southeast Asia.

Pristine Beaches and Clear Waters

The Perhentian Islands are renowned for their soft, powdery white sands and turquoise waters. Whether you are lounging on Long Beach on Perhentian Kecil or enjoying the seclusion of Coral Bay on Perhentian Besar, you are sure to be captivated by the unspoiled beaches. The water is crystal clear, offering perfect conditions for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.

Vibrant Marine Life

The islands’ coral reefs are rich in marine life, making them a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving. Whether you are an experienced diver or a first-time snorkeller, the marine park is home to colourful fish, sea turtles, and rays, all visible right from the beaches. The Underwater World around the Perhentian Islands is as vibrant as it is diverse. For those looking for more adventure, diving trips are available to explore deeper waters and discover hidden reefs and caves.

Peaceful Atmosphere

Unlike other more crowded destinations in Southeast Asia, the Perhentian Islands offer a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere. There are no large resorts or noisy bars, making it the perfect escape for travellers who want to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Whether you’re sunbathing, walking through the jungle, or simply enjoying a quiet evening by the beach, the Perhentians provide an atmosphere of tranquillity that is hard to find in other parts of the region.

A Great Destination for Eco-Tourism

The islands are part of a marine park, meaning they are protected from overfishing and other environmental threats. Eco-tourism is actively promoted here, and efforts are made to preserve the natural surroundings. Sustainable tourism is the key focus for local resorts and activities, encouraging visitors to respect the land and sea.

Best Things to Do on the Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands offer a wide variety of activities for visitors, from water sports to exploring the jungle and enjoying the local culture. Here’s a breakdown of the best things to do on these tropical islands.

Snorkelling and Diving

Snorkelling is undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience the vibrant underwater world of the Perhentian Islands. There are several well-known snorkelling spots around the islands, including Shark Bay, where you can often spot blacktip reef sharks, and Turtle Bay, where you may swim with sea turtles. The waters are warm and shallow, making it perfect for snorkelling, even for beginners.

For divers, the Perhentians offer an incredible experience. The surrounding reefs are teeming with life, including reefs, schools of fish, moray eels, and sea turtles. The islands are home to a number of diving schools that offer PADI courses and guided dives to explore deeper waters. Some dive sites are particularly famous for their coral gardens, which are considered among the best in Southeast Asia.

Jungle Trekking

While the islands are known for their beaches and marine life, they also offer jungle treks through the lush rainforest that covers much of the islands. You can trek through the dense jungle to reach secluded beaches, enjoy stunning viewpoints, and spot some of the island’s wildlife, such as macaques, monitor lizards, and colourful birds. The trails are well-maintained and provide a great way to see the islands’ natural beauty up close.

Beach Hopping

There are several beautiful beaches on both Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar. The most popular one is Long Beach, known for its stunning sunsets, vibrant nightlife, and great snorkelling opportunities. On the other hand, Coral Bay offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe and is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

For a more secluded experience, you can visit Turtle Beach on Perhentian Besar, a quiet spot where you can spend hours swimming or sunbathing without the crowds.

Water Sports

Apart from snorkelling and diving, the Perhentian Islands are an excellent destination for other water sports, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours. The calm, clear waters make it easy to explore the coast by kayak or paddleboard, and there are plenty of places where you can rent equipment.

Enjoy the Local Food

When you’re not in the water, you can sample some of the delicious local Malaysian food available at the beachside restaurants and cafés. The Perhentian Islands are known for their fresh seafood, so make sure to try grilled fish, shrimp, or fish curry. You can also enjoy local dishes like nasi lemak (coconut rice) or mee goreng (fried noodles). Most restaurants on the islands have laid-back, casual atmospheres, making it easy to relax and enjoy the food while watching the sunset.

When is the Best Time to Visit the Perhentian Islands?

The best time to visit the Perhentian Islands is during the dry season, which runs from March to October. The weather is warm, the seas are calm, and the visibility for snorkelling and diving is excellent. During this period, the islands are open for tourism, and many of the local hotels and resorts are fully operational.

From November to February, the islands experience the monsoon season, with heavy rains and rough seas. During this time, most resorts close, and it is not recommended to visit unless you are looking for a quieter, off-season experience.

Where to Stay on the Perhentian Islands

Accommodation on the Perhentian Islands ranges from budget-friendly beach huts to more luxurious resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay:

Perhentian Tuna Bay Island Resort

Located on Perhentian Kecil, this family-friendly resort offers comfortable beachfront chalets, perfect for those who want to be close to the water. The resort is popular for its snorkelling trips and offers excellent customer service.

Bubu Long Beach Resort

Situated on Perhentian Kecil, this resort is known for its affordable pricing and proximity to Long Beach. It’s a great choice for young travellers or backpackers.

Bubbles Dive Resort

A favourite for divers, this resort offers diving courses and guided dives, along with comfortable bungalows. It is located near Long Beach, making it convenient for snorkellers as well.

Why the Perhentian Islands Are a Must-Visit Destination

The Perhentian Islands are a hidden gem in Southeast Asia that offers everything a traveller could want: stunning beaches, clear waters, amazing marine life, and a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to snorkel, dive, or simply relax on the beach, the Perhentians offer the perfect tropical getaway. With their vibrant coral reefs, untouched landscapes, and welcoming vibe, the Perhentian Islands are the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature.

If you’re looking for a tropical paradise where you can truly unwind and enjoy some of the best marine life in the world, then the Perhentian Islands should be on your travel list.

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From Port Klang To Phuket: The Ultimate Cosplay Adventure At Sea Starts Now

For the first time in the country, StarCruises, together with ACG Festiverse and AniMania Festival, will celebrate Malaysia’s very first onboard cosplay competition, named CosCruise: Cosplay Championship at Sea. The event will be held during the Star Voyager’s 5-day cruise, and will be held between December 2 – 6, 2026. The event is set to celebrate cosplay and creative cultures at the cruise, and also to promote the diverse fandoms. From Port Klang, the cruise is set to sail to destinations like Singapore and Phuket, and will allow people to showcase and present their cosplays.

For StarCruises, events like these are first of their kind. Their guests will also receive the chance to see the crafts of cosplayers compete for the title of CosCruise Champion at Sea, as they view the Southeast Asia cosplayers. The cruise is also set to be an extraordinary experience with a prize of 2,000 RM to the winner.

An All-New Experience for Cosplay Competitions

StarCrusies, which has been part of the luxury cruise industry for several years, has diversified its business by organizing the CosCruise competition, which is aimed at bringing together Southeast Asia’s cosplayers and showcasing their talents on a luxury cruise. StarCruises has a reputation for organizing high-quality events, which is why the company’s entry into the cosplay cruise competition is a first of its kind for Southeast Asia and for StarCruises.

In Michael Goh’s words, the president of StarDream Cruises, “We hope that every participant walks away from the event with a remarkable experience.” He also noted that the event is a celebration, and not just a competition, of creativity and the potential impact of culture and imagination. He also looks forward to the cosplayers and the audience joining him on the Star Voyager for an exciting journey and experience while on the cruise.

The event is structured so that participants compete live on board the Star Voyager, with the winner taking home the Grand Prize. The cosplayers selected to participate in the event will receive an all-expenses-paid cruise and the opportunity to perform on stage in front of an audience and a panel of judges.

CosCruise Competition Dates and Itinerary Cruise CosCruise will take place during a four-night round-trip from Port Klang. The Star Voyager will visit Phuket and Singapore on its way, and guests are free to explore the cities and enjoy the event on the seas. It is the first \n\nFor those who wish to cruise before the event, we will sail Star Voyager on regular scheduled cruises beginning in December 2025. Specifically, we will begin 3-night and 4-night sails from December 19, 2025, to February 2, 2026. Our 3-night cruises are round-trip from Port Klang to Bintan and Singapore. For the 4-night cruise, guests will sail from Port Klang to Phuket (also stopping in Singapore). Travelers on these sails will join the cruise community, enjoy the luxurious amenities on the Star Voyager, and make the most of their trip with onboard activities.

A Stage to Showcase Regional Talent

CosCruise is expected to garner many entries from various cosplay communities in Malaysia and the surrounding areas. To promote inclusion, StarCruises will allow entrants to submit applications starting December 12, 2025, through January 12, 2026. The applications will be evaluated to different levels of creativity and craftsmanship, and the best will be promoted to the cruise event. The names of successful entrants will be published on the event’s official website on January 19, 2026.

The experienced cosplayers will be the first to take part in a cruise dedicated to the celebration of cosplay. With the Workshop and Grand Prize of RM2,000, the event will position itself as a major cosplay competition, while also promoting Malaysia’s creative scene.

A Fun Celebration of Fandoms and Fantasy

Outside of the cosplay competition, CosCruise is an experience focused on celebrating cosplay in all of its forms. Every participant and attendee will have the opportunity to bond over shared interests and passions and find themselves in a realm where the imaginary and the real collide. Since it is an international event, it will introduce Malaysian audiences to an array of different cosplay cultures and styles, providing the event with an entertaining, educational, and cultural component.

In addition, all guests and participants will be well accommodated on the Star Voyager cruise, which is an extravagant cruise ship. CosCruise is more than just a competition, as it will provide an experience of a lifetime. With world-class dining, an array of onboard entertainment, and cosplay, it will be a travel experience like no other.

Conclusion: An Incredible Adventure

StarCruises and the Southeast Asia cosplay community have begun a new chapter with the launch of CosCruise. It combines the excitement of an international cruise with cosplay competitions where contestants showcase their creativity. Given that the cosplay community is deeply rooted in many different cultures, the cruise will serve as an international platform for cultural exchange. CosCruise will be a game-changing experience that will transcend the borders of cosplay and cruise travel.

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Agrotourism Roadmap: Charting a New Era for Sustainable, Experiential Rural Tourism and Local Economic Growth

For too long, rural areas in many parts of the world have been viewed merely as agricultural hubs—essential for food production but overlooked as destinations for leisure and travel. However, a quiet but profound shift is underway, recognizing that the authentic landscapes, traditional farming practices, and close-knit communities of the countryside are, in fact, powerful tourist assets. This shift is codified in a new Agrotourism Brochure and Roadmap, which charts a strategic, sustainable path for rural tourism development. This is not simply about visiting a farm; it’s about creating an immersive, educational, and deeply human travel experience that benefits everyone involved, from the farmer to the traveler.

The Roadmap’s Core Philosophy: Authenticity and Experience

The new roadmap is built on a core philosophy that prioritizes authenticity and experiential travel. It moves beyond basic sightseeing, encouraging visitors to participate actively in the agricultural lifecycle. Key components of this strategy likely include:

Farm-to-Table Immersion: Developing opportunities for visitors to harvest their own produce, participate in cooking classes using local ingredients, and dine directly on the farm. This closes the gap between the food source and the consumer, creating a memorable, educational experience.

Cultural Fusion: Integrating local indigenous culture and traditional agricultural practices. Agrotourism sites become venues for showcasing unique festivals, craft-making techniques, and local folklore tied to the land, ensuring cultural preservation goes hand-in-hand with economic growth.

Educational Focus: Positioning farms as living classrooms. Tours focus on sustainable farming techniques, organic practices, and the ecological importance of local biodiversity, appealing to the growing market of eco-conscious and intellectually curious travelers.

By offering this depth of engagement, agrotourism appeals to a higher-value, discerning traveler who seeks meaningful interaction over superficial luxury, ensuring the sustainability of the business model.

Empowering the Grassroots: Economic Diversification

The most significant impact of this agrotourism roadmap is its power to fuel local economic diversification and community empowerment. Rural economies are often vulnerable to fluctuating commodity prices and external market forces. Tourism provides a crucial buffer, offering farmers and their families a supplementary, stable income stream that is not dependent on crop yields alone.

The roadmap strategically encourages rural communities to become micro-entrepreneurs. Farmers are incentivized to build small, traditional homestays, offer guided tours, and sell value-added products (like jams, honey, or artisanal soaps) directly to visitors. This keeps the tourism revenue within the local community, fostering local pride and discouraging the mass migration of youth to urban centers. Agrotourism provides a compelling reason for the next generation to return to the land, viewing their agricultural heritage not as a burden, but as a source of modern, sustainable income.

Strategic Pillars: Quality and Connectivity

To ensure the success of this roadmap, two strategic pillars must be addressed: Quality Standards and Connectivity.

• Quality and Safety: The brochure likely outlines a system for classifying and certifying agrotourism sites to ensure they meet basic standards for visitor safety, hygiene, and service quality. Maintaining quality ensures positive word-of-mouth marketing and justifies higher price points.
• Infrastructure and Digital Connectivity: Rural sites often suffer from poor road access and limited internet. The roadmap must prioritize investment in basic infrastructure upgrades and digital connectivity. Good connectivity is essential not just for visitor comfort, but for operators to manage bookings, market their services globally, and manage online payments efficiently.

These necessary investments turn a collection of isolated farms into a coherent, marketable tourism network capable of competing with established destinations.

The Human Story: Reconnecting with the Land

For the traveler, the magic of agrotourism lies in its ability to reconnect them with the fundamental source of life: the land. It offers a genuine respite from the digital world, allowing them to participate in the rhythms of nature. The humanized element of this travel is found in the simple, yet profound, interactions with the local host families—sharing a meal, learning a language, or simply listening to stories passed down over generations.

The new agrotourism roadmap is a celebration of rural identity. It gives value and visibility to the hardworking people who feed the nation. It transforms the farmer from a hidden producer into a proud cultural ambassador. As this roadmap is rolled out, it promises to redefine the landscape of rural travel, making it not just a viable economic option, but a cherished, authentic destination for travelers seeking depth, sustainability, and a real taste of local life.

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Which investors are writing the most checks to Malaysia-based startups?

Standard Chartered Malaysia would act as the issuer, while Capital A may pilot possible wholesale use cases.

Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru Linked by Modern Electric Train as Malaysia Ushers in a New Era of Efficient Long-Distance Rail Travel

Malaysia has embarked on a transformative journey in modern rail transport with the commencement of its long-awaited electric train service linking Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru. This new service marks a major milestone in the nation’s transportation infrastructure, providing travellers with a faster, more comfortable, and reliable alternative for long-distance travel along the west coast corridor.

A Landmark Achievement in Malaysia’s Rail Expansion

The launch of the southern electric train service is the culmination of years of extensive planning and engineering. The train’s arrival at key southern stations signifies the completion of the 192-kilometre Gemas–Johor Bahru electrified double-track project, a critical component of Malaysia’s west coast rail modernization initiative. This expansion not only strengthens the national rail network but also sets new standards for passenger convenience and operational efficiency.

Overcoming Delays and Engineering Challenges

Originally slated for completion in 2021, the southern extension faced significant delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic and land acquisition complexities. The construction, which began in 2017, required meticulous coordination across multiple engineering and logistical fronts. Its eventual readiness represents a noteworthy achievement in national infrastructure development, showcasing Malaysia’s commitment to advancing rail mobility despite unforeseen challenges.

State-of-the-Art Travel Experience

The new electric train, comprising six coaches, offers seating for 312 passengers, including five standard coaches and a dedicated business-class carriage. Modern amenities have been thoughtfully integrated to enhance the travel experience, featuring plug points at every seat, multiple restrooms, a bistro for light refreshments, and a prayer room. Business-class passengers enjoy wider seating, complimentary meals, personal entertainment screens with internet access, and private restroom facilities, combining luxury with convenience for long-distance journeys.

Significant Reduction in Travel Time

The southern ETS line dramatically shortens travel time between Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru to approximately 4.5 hours, presenting a compelling alternative to the conventional five-to-seven-hour drive by road. This time efficiency is especially valuable during peak travel periods, providing greater flexibility for commuters, tourists, and cross-border travellers.

Expanded Services and Connectivity

From December 12, selected services between KL Sentral and Kluang have been extended to JB Sentral, offering direct connections for passengers travelling to southern destinations. Initially, four daily departures have been scheduled, including two from KL Sentral and two from JB Sentral. Adjustments to the timetable are planned for January 1, 2026, further enhancing the line’s accessibility and convenience for daily and leisure travellers alike.

Economic Opportunities and Tourism Growth

The southern rail expansion is expected to deliver a strong economic impact by facilitating smoother regional mobility. Improved access to Johor and other southern destinations is projected to stimulate tourism, encourage cross-border travel from Singapore, and support local businesses. The new service provides a platform for increased economic activity, linking major urban centres and encouraging regional development.

Launch Promotions Drive Public Interest

To celebrate the inauguration of the southern ETS line, one-way fares start at an affordable rate and can be booked via the official mobile app, station kiosks, and the rail operator’s website. A promotional discount of 30 percent was offered during the first month of operation, and early uptake by passengers indicates strong public enthusiasm for the new service. The promotion highlighted the widespread demand for modern, efficient rail travel in the country.

Shaping the Future of Rail Travel in Malaysia

The introduction of the high-speed electric train between Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru represents a transformative step in Malaysia’s transportation landscape. By combining faster travel times, enhanced passenger comfort, and expanded connectivity, the service benefits both domestic and regional travellers. As the southern rail corridor becomes fully operational, the country can expect more seamless movement across key destinations, greater economic integration, and a strengthened position in regional transport networks.

The launch of this electric train service demonstrates Malaysia’s commitment to modernizing its rail infrastructure, fostering sustainable mobility, and enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers across the nation.

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