Just off the coast of Perak in Peninsular Malaysia lies Pangkor, an island of secluded beaches, clear waters and quaint fishing villages. Its serenity belies its colourful past as an island stopover for weary seafarers and brave explorers on their journey up the Straits of Malacca and as a fort for the Dutch Army who ruled the local Malays on the island during the 16th century.

Today, Pangkor Island is the ideal holiday getaway for foreign and local tourists alike who come for the sunshine, sea and seafood.

There are several noteworthy beaches on Pangkor Island. The most popular are Pasir Bogak Beach, Nipah Bay and Puteri Dewi Beach located on the west coast of the island. Accommodation choices at these beaches are plenty ranging from simple, rustic A-frame huts to cosy chalets and comfortable rooms with air-conditioning.

Visitors to the island can engage in a variety of watersports like snorkelling, sailing and fishing. For landbound activities, take a historic stroll to see the ruins of the Dutch Fort at Kampung Teluk Gedung. The fort, built in 1680 by the first Europeans in Perak to protect vital tin supplies, was occupied by the Dutch until 1748. But only the foundations of the fort and stone carvings remain in the once mighty garrison. Visitors can also trek along the Pangkor Forest Reserve to view tropical flora and fauna such as wild orchids, colourful birds, giant hornbills and monkeys.Visit the quaint fishing villages scattered on the east of the island to get fresh and dried seafood as well as souvenirs while observing the local lifestyle.

Just southwest of Pangkor Island lies the privately-owned Pangkor Laut Island with an internationally-acclaimed resort built on it. The Pangkor Laut Resort only takes up a fraction of the 300-acre island and is surrounded by a two million-year-old rainforest and clear blue waters. It provides luxurious accommodation in the style of traditional Malay villas with sea, garden, beach or rainforest views where guests will be spoilt with beautiful beaches, privacy and idyllic surroundings.

Contact: Normasila Musa malaysiainfo@aol.com +1 (213) 689-9702 For more information log on to www.pangkor.com.my. To know more about Pangkor Laut Resort, go to www.pangkorlautresort.com.

Source: Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia