Perhentian Islands

The name Perhentian comes from the Malay word for a stopping place, and Tourism Malaysia notes that the islands were once a resting point for fishermen and traders sailing between Siam and Terengganu. Under British rule they appeared on maps as the Station Islands. For centuries the only permanent settlement was a small fishing village on Perhentian Kecil, which still exists today.

Tourism has since grown steadily, from simple beach chalets to larger resorts and dive centres. The surrounding waters are protected as part of Malaysia's marine park network, which restricts fishing close to shore, and the forests of the islands serve as water catchment. Green and hawksbill turtles nest on the beaches, and conservation work, including a Department of Fisheries hatchery, aims to protect them. The islands have become one of Terengganu's busiest destinations, with around 300,000 visitors expected by mid-2025 according to the state government.

The Perhentians sit in Besut district in conservative Terengganu, and the fishing village on Perhentian Kecil is a traditional Malay Muslim community with its own mosque. Halal food is the norm, and alcohol is limited to a few resorts and bars. Swimwear is accepted on resort beaches, but cover up when walking through the village. Many resort and boat staff come from the mainland and leave when the islands close for the monsoon.