The water on Tenggol Island is crystal clear. — Photos: ABBI KANTHASAMY
There's something about Tenggol Island that feels like a secret. This small, tear-shaped gem off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia doesn’t shout for your attention like its glitzier neighbours. It whispers. A soft call of powdery sands, turquoise waters, and an underwater world so rich and vibrant, it feels like a waking dream.
Getting here isn’t easy – it’s a boat ride from Kuala Dungun, a sleepy fishing town in Terengganu. Tenggol’s relative obscurity is its greatest strength. This is not a destination for travellers seeking infinity pools or Instagrammable beach bars. It’s a place for the curious, the adventurous, and the ones who still believe that the best experiences aren’t wrapped in shiny packages.
The main attraction? Beneath the crystalline surface lies a world of wonder. Tenggol is home to some of the most pristine coral reefs in South-East Asia. Divers come here to explore its 25 dive sites, ranging from gentle coral gardens perfect for beginners to challenging underwater pinnacles and deep walls that thrill seasoned pros.
But the crown jewel of Tenggol’s marine treasures is an 800-year-old brain coral, one of the largest of its kind in the world. Sitting like an ancient sentinel of the sea, this massive coral formation is a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and time. Swimming around it feels like brushing against history – an encounter with something that has quietly existed through centuries of human turmoil and change.
Tenggol’s waters are also a playground for whale sharks during their migration season from August to October. Seeing these gentle giants gliding in the water is a humbling experience. It reminds you just how small we are in the grand scheme of things.
Picture-perfect beaches
On land, Tenggol is an unpretentious beauty. Its beaches are the kind you dream about – a stretch of soft white sand framed by lush jungle and clear blue waters. There are no loud crowds here, just the rustling of palm leaves and the gentle crash of waves.
Accommodations on the island are basic at best. Think small chalets and simple resorts with the bare necessities. No five-star luxury here, but that’s not the point. Tenggol is about stripping away the noise and reconnecting with the essentials.
For those who seek solitude, mornings on Tenggol are magical. The rising sun bathes the island in golden light, and the jungle comes alive with the sounds of birds and cicadas.
Evenings bring a canopy of stars, unspoiled by the light pollution of the mainland.
In true Malaysian fashion, Tenggol’s food is a reflection of its surroundings. Here, seafood reigns supreme. After a long day of diving or snorkelling, there’s nothing better than feasting on fresh fish grilled to perfection, served with sambal belacan – a fiery chili paste that wakes up the senses.
The island’s chefs keep things simple, letting the freshness of the catch speak for itself. Think butter prawns, squid stir-fried with garlic, and crab cooked in rich, spicy sauces. Meals here aren’t fancy, but they’re honest, delicious, and deeply satisfying.
Why Tenggol matters
Historically, Tenggol was a refuge for fishermen seeking shelter during storms. It was never meant to be inhabited, and in many ways, it still feels that way. The island has retained its wild, untouched character, a stark contrast to the polished tourism hotspots that dominate much of South-East Asia.
Geographically, Tenggol is part of the Terengganu Marine Park, a protected area dedicated to conserving its unique ecosystem. The island itself is small – just 3km long and 2km wide – but its impact on those who visit is immeasurable.
In a world where everything is designed for convenience, Tenggol Island is a reminder of what we lose when things become too easy. There are no crowds here, no loud music, no overpriced cocktails. Instead, there’s quiet. There’s nature. There’s a sense of awe and wonder that is increasingly rare in our hyperconnected lives.
Tenggol doesn’t cater to everyone, and it doesn’t try to. But for those who seek it out, this little island offers something far more valuable than luxury or convenience – it offers authenticity.
So, pack your fins, your sense of adventure, and leave your expectations at the jetty. Tenggol Island is waiting, and trust me, it’s worth the journey.
The views expressed here are entirely the writer’s own.Abbi Kanthasamy blends his expertise as an entrepreneur with his passion for photography and travel. For more of his work, visit www.abbiphotography.com.
Tenggol Island in Dungung, Terengganu
The water on Tenggol Island is crystal clear. — Photos: ABBI KANTHASAMY
The best thing to do on the island is nothing, so just enjoy the peace and quiet.
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