About Tioman Island
Tioman Island is the largest of 64 volcanic islands located in the South China Sea. Officially part of Pahang, the largest state in peninsular Malaysia, Tioman Island lies about 40 miles off the east coast of the peninsula.
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Language, Religion and Currency
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There are only two roads on the entire island, though there are several villages around the coastline. The island has religious freedom, though it does have the official religion of Islam. The official language is Bahasa Malaysia, but English is usually spoken as well. Shoes are usually removed before entering homes, and sometimes before entering shops and restaurants. The Malaysian currency, the Ringgit (RM) and the sen, are used. One hundred sen equal one RM, and about five RM are equal to one euro, about $1.50.
Climate
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The island holds true to form with its tropical climate. It experiences a monsoon season yearly between November and March, and even from April through October the humidity is still high. The temperature is consistently warm, staying between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This sunny, moist climate makes the island very green and full of vegetation, including tropical jungles, which cover about 29,650 acres of land.
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Plant and Animal Life
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Tioman's mountainous jungle is home to many protected species of animals and birds, and is also known for its waterfalls and beautiful exotic flowers, such as the orchid. Tioman boasts plenty of lower lands, as well, including many beaches. The water around the island includes many tropical fish and other animals, with two species of marine turtles. The seawater is very clear, with visibility of up to 100 feet deep, meaning divers and other watergoers can witness the colorful "underwater gardens" of coral, fish and anemones that live in the ocean.
Legend
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The island has legendary origins. The tale is that a dragon princess was flying to Singapore to meet her prince. Tired by the journey, she stopped to rest in the waters off the coast. Enchanted by its beauty, the dragon princess found she loved the place so much she could not leave. Some legends say that the princess actually used her magic to become the island --other versions suggest that the island was already there, and the dragon princess merely made it her home and vowed to keep it beautiful forever.
Tourism
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The island has charm for more modern visitors as well. The island is duty free, not least among its draws. It is a popular tourist spot, both from mainland Malaysia and elsewhere around the world. Its paradisaical qualities are such that it was one of the islands used to portray the magical island of Bali Ha'i in the 1958 film version of "South Pacific." The vegetation, climate and tropical wildlife draw a variety of people, from divers to nature lovers to families simply seeking a relaxing vacation.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Harbor at a Tioman Village
