10 Must-Know Travel Tips for Foreigners Visiting Pulau Perhentian in Malaysia

Knowing travel tips is extremely important for foreigners visiting Pulau Perhentian in Malaysia. This beautiful island in Malaysia is a popular tourist destination, offering stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. However, being a foreigner, it is crucial to have knowledge of local customs, traditions, and regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

In this article, we will be sharing essential tips such as local transportation options, the best time to visit, appropriate attire, and local cuisine to enhance your travel experience! Nevertheless, these tips are shared to help to avoid any cultural misunderstandings and ensure respectful behavior towards the local community.

So, before embarking on a journey to Pulau Perhentian, let’s equip yourselves with necessary travel tips to make the most of your visit!

(Credit: TripAdvisor)

#1 Visa and Entry Requirements in Malaysia

Before visiting, ensure you’re aware of Malaysia’s visa regulations, which may vary depending on your nationality.

#2 Malaysia Currency

The official currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (RM). While some resorts and dive shops might accept credit cards, many smaller businesses only accept cash. Make sure to bring sufficient cash with you or withdraw from the mainland before heading to the islands. Do note that there’s no bank on Pulau Perhentian Besar!

#3 Language

Malay is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

#4 Weather

Pulau Perhentian has a tropical climate, where it’s typically divided into dry season and monsoon season. The best time to visit is between every year’s March and November, which is also known as the dry season. The monsoon season usually takes place from November to February. During this time, the weather can disrupt ferry services and resulting many accommodations stopped operating throughout this period.

#5 Health and Safety on Island

Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance.

Be cautious about strong ocean currents when swimming or snorkeling.

Sun protection is crucial. Use sunblock, wear a hat, and hydrate regularly.

Tap water isn’t safe to drink. Always drink bottled water.

There’s no hospital on the island. There are small clinics that attend to minor medical issues. However, serious medical emergencies may require evacuation. Kindly pack your medicines with you if necessary.

#6 Marine Conservation

The Perhentian islands are known for diving and snorkeling. In the meantime you’re enjoying these activities offered by the beautiful ocean, always respect marine life. Explore underwater responsibly can simply begin by not touching or harassing underwater creatures. Nevertheless, if you’re diving, ensure your dive center is reputable and follow safe diving practices.

Other than that, do keep it mind to:
Not touching or stepping on coral reefs.
Not feeding marine life.
Use reef-safe sunscreens, as certain sunblock ingredients can harm coral.

#7 Connectivity on Pulau Perhentian

Internet and mobile phone signals can be spotty once you left the mainland. If you need regular connectivity, consider buying a local SIM card from a provider known to have decent coverage in the area. Some local convenience store on the island may provide SIM card options, don’t shy away from asking!

#8 Local Customs and Respect

Internet and mobile phone signals can be spotty once you left the mainland. If you need regular connectivity, consider buying a local SIM card from a provider known to have decent coverage in the area. Some local convenience store on the island may provide SIM card options, don’t shy away from asking!

#8 Local Customs and Respect

As a visitor to the island, we are all obliged to respect local customs, traditions, and religious practices. Should confusion arise, always seek clarification with respectful tone to avoid discord and misunderstanding. Besides that, it is a great practice to learn about the local culture before traveling abroad!

#9 Transport

There are no cars on the islands. To get around, you can walk, use boat taxis, or rent a kayak. Whereas for the transportation connecting the island and mainland is often arranged by the local resorts or hotels. Otherwise you can always check the jetty schedule to plan out your trip.

#10 Protect the Island for Future Generations

Last but not least, as with many natural paradises, it’s essential to respect the environment. Learn about the local environment, its flora, fauna, and any rules or regulations in place to protect it. Understanding the importance of preservation will help you make conscious choices.

Have a safe travel to Malaysia and a great time on Pulau Perhentian! 

Even during your visit to Malaysia’s Pulau Perhentian, you can also contribute to the long-term preservation and sustainability of natural paradises.

Visit Tuna Bay Island Resort at Perhentian Island!

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