Malaysia :: Sembilan Islands

Located around 25km off the coast of Pulau Pangkor are the Sembilan islands (the term Sembilan means 'nine islands' and is the derivative of the name Similan for the famous islands in Thailand) . Visibility isnt great here (average 3 to 9 meters) but there is a wide selection of marine life to keep divers occupied. Coral is in good condition, all the way down to 40 meters in some parts and fish life consists of scopionfish, pufferfish, parrotfish, barracuda and seahorses. The islands consist of Pulau Agas, Pulau Payong, Pulau Nipis, Pulau Rumbia, Pulau Lalang, Pulau Saga, Pulau Buluh, Black Rock and White Rock. White Rock is a popular site with its lighthouse and steep walls dropping down to 40 meters. The channels between the islands offer good coral and often big shoals of fish.

Pulau Jarak
Around 60km off Pangkor Island is the small uninhabited island of Jarak. Diving is popular during November to March when the east coast is off season. There is a submerged reef at 25 meters here where currents can be strong and marine life is good.

Pulau Pangkor
While there are a couple of diving sites around the holiday island of Pangkor it is more suited for snorkelling or free diving. The island has some stunning beaches and bays with crystal clear waters and powder white sand.