Website on 15 best beaches

PETALING JAYA: Tourists can now make better choices on which beaches to go for their vacation when they visit www.101bestbeaches.com/malaysia.

The website lists 15 of the best beaches in Malaysia, according to famous beach critic and conservationist Brad Farmer.

A statement from Tourism Malaysia said among those featured on the site, which was launched on April 10, were Pangkor Island, in Perak; Batu Feringghi Beach, Penang; Coral Bay and Pasir Panjang Beach, Terengganu; Juara Beach, Pahang; Desaru Beach, Johor; Mabul Island and Mantanani Islands in Sabah; and Damai Beach in Sarawak.

“This is the first time Malaysia’s beaches are being assessed and examined first-hand by a qualified and internationally renowned beach expert, who rated the beaches on a variety of criteria, such as budget, scenic views, activities, ease of travel, conservation efforts, and the pristine condition,” said the statement.

Farmer, who has written bestselling books on beaches for over 30 years, is a former senate adviser on coastal issues in Australia.

In conjunction with the Malaysia Year of Festivals 2015, the website aims to help attract more travellers to visit Malaysia’s beaches and islands this year.

Last year, there were 27.4 million tourists, while this year, the Government is targeting 29.4 million tourist arrivals with RM89bil in tourist receipts.