DIVING IN MALAYSIA
DIVING IN MALAYSIA
QUICK FACTS
In the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, islands like Redang, Perhentian, Lang Tengah, Tenggol and Tioman are suitable for new divers but also attracts experienced divers. There are many dive operators to choose from and stretches of healthy coral reef to explore as well as some pinnacles and shipwrecks.
In East Malaysia, diving is more exciting. You can head to Miri in the state of Sarawak to dive at the Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park. Better yet, go straight to Sabah to access world-class diving at Sipadan Island, Layang-Layang Island and macro dives at Mabul Island. Layang-Layang Island is an area for deep dives of up to 130ft (40m) so make sure you have the right certifications. As for Sipadan Island, make sure to dive with operators with access to diving permits and book your trip in advance to ensure that you secure a permit as there are only 120 permits available per day.
RECOMMENDED TRAINING
WHEN TO GO
RAIN AND TEMPERATURE
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WATER TEMPERATURE
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DIVE RESORTS IN MALAYSIA
LIVEABOARDS IN MALAYSIA
BEST DIVE SITES IN MALAYSIA
WHAT TO SEE
Diving at islands off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia is rewarding. These islands are frequented by several turtle species including the green sea turtle, hawksbill sea turtle, and if you are very lucky, you might see a leatherback sea turtle.
Besides turtles, expect to find blacktip sharks, leopard sharks and large schools of yellowtail snapper. At Tenggol Island, whale shark sightings are possible during July to August. Macro lovers will have plenty to see in this area, as there are many species of nudibranch, scorpionfish, pipefish, octopus and eels littered around the healthy reefs.
In East Malaysia, Sipadan Island’s steep walls are always bustling with activity. You will see many whitetip sharks and green sea turtles during your dives. A highlight is a dive site called Barracuda Point where a huge school of resident barracuda are often seen swimming in a vortex at the drop-off.
At Layang-Layang Island, the months of April and May are a good time to catch sight of schooling scalloped hammerhead sharks in the depths. For critter hunting, Mabul Island has a treasure trove of critters like nudibranch, stonefish, scorpionfish, filefish, cuttlefish and also the deadly blue-ringed octopus.
CALENDAR
COUNTRY
Warm and welcoming, Malaysia is a popular tourist destination. Travelers who like metropolitan cities, old colonial architecture and a multitude of culinary delights will enjoy Kuala Lumpur, Penang Island and Malacca in Peninsular Malaysia. Outdoor enthusiasts will find Taman Negara in the state of Pahang, as well as the wild jungles, caves and rivers of Sarawak and Sabah in East Malaysia an absolute delight.
Beach and ocean lovers will be spoilt for choice. The east coast of Peninsular Malaysia has many idyllic islands with white sand beaches and healthy coral reefs to explore. In East Malaysia, divers can make a beeline to the state of Sabah. Just off Sabah lies Sipadan Island, a world renowned diving destination and the only oceanic island in Malaysia. Besides that, there is Layang-Layang Island which is famous for its congregations of scalloped hammerhead sharks.