Bidong Island, Secluded marine sanctuary in Terengganu, Malaysia.
Bidong Island spans 260 hectares in the South China Sea with natural beaches and dense tropical vegetation covering much of its terrain. Shallow coral areas and healthy marine ecosystems surround the coastline, making it suitable for water-based exploration.
From 1978 to 1991, the island served as a refuge for up to 40,000 Vietnamese fleeing war and upheaval in their home country. This period left a lasting mark on the island and remains central to understanding its past.
The Marine Research Station of Universiti Malaysia Terengganu conducts ongoing studies here while honoring the memory of communities who once sheltered on its shores. Both aspects remain visible to visitors exploring the island today.
Boats regularly depart from nearby Merang to reach the island, with the best conditions for water activities occurring from March through October during the dry season. Weather outside these months can be unpredictable, and boat services may be suspended.
The underwater site Blue Garden hosts numerous blue anemones that retract their tentacles as dusk falls, creating natural light displays in the surrounding waters. This uncommon phenomenon proves particularly rewarding for snorkelers and divers to observe.
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