The Perhentian Islands (Pulau Perhentian in Malay) lie approximately 10 nautical miles (19 km) offshore the coast of northeastern Malaysia in the state of Terengganu, approximately 40 miles (64 km) south of the Thai border
The two main islands are Perhentian Besar ("Big Perhentian") and Perhentian Kecil ("Small Perhentian"). The Perhentians belong to Pulau Redang National Marine Park, which means that fishing, collecting coral and littering are strictly prohibited. People here generally speak Kelantanese Malay.
The Malay name Perhentian is translated as “place to stop” and this is exactly what these two islands were for traders travelling between Malaysia and Bangkok in years gone by. These islands are still a gorgeous place to stop and rest today, albeit for tourists disconnecting from the stress and routine of everyday life and not for weary seafaring traders.
The islands remain relatively untouched and the only permanent inhabitants live in a small fishing village on Perhentian Kecil. Apart from footpaths that cut through the jungle, there are no roads on the islands. The only way to get around is by walking through the jungle or taking a sea taxi. If you tread carefully, you may even encounter some of the islands’ shy wildlife on the way, such as monitor lizards, fruit bats, squirrels or even the elusive mouse deer. Simple chalets and some moderately luxurious resorts line the picturesque beaches along with restaurants, dive centres and boat operators advertising their services with hand-painted signs.
Our project site is approximately 1 hour by speed boat from Kuala Besut, the nearest jetty on Peninsular Malaysia. Kuala Besut is approximately an hour (50km) overland from the Kota Bharu airport. (http://www.perhentian.com.my/)
See our volunteering or educationprogrammes at Perhentian Island.
The historical town of Kota Bharu, the state capital of Kelantan is worth visiting with museums and batik markets dotting the area. Don’t miss the local food of Nasi Ulam, rice and spices served with a huge buffet of leaves and ferns from the Malaysian rainforests. Travelling south, the state of Terengganu also has lots of nature and culture to offer.
| The Great Orangutan Project and Great Marine Project are made up of several programmes:
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