How much do you know about Malaysia islands?

“Pulau” is what Malaysians normally call an island. Malaysia has as many as 878 islands according to National Department of Survey and Mapping, and they are no stranger to tourists! However, depending on the location, some of them are habitable and passable, whereas some are yet not explored.

The popular islands in Malaysia include Penang, Langkawi and Pangkor Island on the west side; while Perhentian Island, Redang Island and Tioman Island are in the east. In comparison, the islands on east coast gathered more tourism visits due to the excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities.

Although most of Malaysia islands are in the Borneo region, it does not always have to be a long trip to enjoy an island getaway. In fact, there are some scenic islands that are easily accessible via plane or road.

Without further ado, let’s dive into (puns intended) the 5 must-visit islands in Malaysia for the upcoming year!

1.    Lang Tengah Island / Pulau Lang Tengah

The smallest island in Terengganu State, Lang Tengah Island got its name from a combination of the eagle’s habitat and its central location between Pulau Perhentian and Pulau Redang. The island is known for its laid back and peaceful atmosphere due to its small size and limited number of resorts. The crystal clear water and white sandy beach is nothing short of a painter’s work. There was even a famous movie filmed in Lang Tengah Island!

• Visiting Season:

April to September

• Transportation:

By plane: Take domestic flight Kuala Terengganu, which is the nearest airport to Lang Tengah Island. From Kuala Terengganu, you can catch a boat to Lang Tengah Island. The boat ride from Kuala Terengganu to Lang Tengah Island takes about 30 mins to one hour.

By road and water: Another option is to drive or take a bus to Kuala Terengganu. Then you can catch a boat to Lang Tengah Island.

2.    Tioman Island / Pulau Tioman

A small volcanic island known as a tropical rainforest paradise; Tioman Island is a rather well-developed commercial destination that is located 30 km off the east coast of Pahang. It has been a traveler’s favorite for years, particularly for locals and Singaporean tourists.

Besides the obvious beautiful ocean and beaches, Tioman Island is also well-known for its splendid underwater world. The island offers various water activities for visitors to participate and explore marine life. Strange and beautiful corals are easily spotted in the water of Tioman Island.

• Visiting Season

Late February to October

• Transportation

By road: Drive or take a bus Mersing, which is the main town on the mainland near Tioman Island. From Mersing, you can catch a ferry to the island.

By plane: You can also fly from Kuala Lumpur to Tioman Island. There are several airlines that operate flights to Tioman Island, including AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines. The flight takes about one hour.

3.    Langkawi Island / Pulau Langkawi

Langkawi Island, the largest island in Malaysia. The name is derived from the reddish-brown eagle, thus the iconic building Eagle Square in Langkawi. Besides the famous Langkawi Sky Bridge and Langkawi Underwater World aquarium, you can also experience fun water activities on the island.

A boat ride is at your disposal, simply get a boat ticket then the beautiful scenery around the island is all yours. If you are lucky, you can even witness dolphins jumping in the sea from the boat!

• Visiting Season

December to March

• Transportation

By plane: The fastest and most convenient way to get to Langkawi is by plane. There are several airlines that operate flights from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi, including AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines. The flight takes about one hour.

By road and water: Another option is to drive or take a bus to Kuala Perlis, which is a port town on the mainland near Langkawi. From Kuala Perlis, you can catch a ferry to Langkawi. The ferry ride takes about one hour.

4.    Layang-Layang Island / Pulau Layang-Layang

There’s a gem laying on the opposite of Borneo. Layang-layang island is the sapphire in the sea. Why so? The island’s location has resulted in the water and coral reefs being pollution-free. Due to that, it is also known as one of the world’s top ten diving destinations.

By diving into 30-60 meters water depth, you could see hammerhead sharks, dolphins, manta rays, and various rare large marine creatures that are spectacular! Layang-layang island is a must-visit for any diving-enthusiast!

• Visiting Season

March to October

• Transportation

By plane: Domestic flights from Kuala Lumpur to Layang-Layang Island are provided by AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines.

By road and water: If you are based in the east Malaysia, you could drive to Kota Kinabalu. From there, you can catch a ferry to Layang-Layang Island which takes about six hours.

5.    Mataking Island / Pulau Mataking

An exclusive luxury island resort located in Sandakan, Sabah, Mataking Island Resort offers stunning ocean views and a tropical atmosphere that is loved by foreign tourists and couples. There are activities such as snorkeling, canoeing, and bonfires on the island. Besides that, a turtle hatchery and a peacock conservation area are built to allow deeper understanding of the natural ecosystem. What more to ask for a holiday full of knowledge and fun?

The Mataking Island Resort also provides comfortable ocean view rooms, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of the ocean as soon as you open your eyes.

• Visiting Season

April to June

• Transportation

By plane: Take domestic flight to Tawau, which is the nearest airport to Mataking Island. From Tawau, you can catch a boat to Mataking Island.

By road and water: Another option is to drive or take a bus to Tawau. From Tawau, you can catch a boat to Mataking Island.

Are you amazed by the beautiful Malaysia islands yet?

Each island speaks in its very own unique characteristics, although all will indulge you with beautiful beaches, secluded bays, splendid underwater world and even more island activities!

If you’re looking for a perfect vacation destination, any Malaysia’s island would be the right choice!

Ready to visit Lang Tengah Island?

Hop on to Summer Bay Resort, Lang Tengah Island!

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