Malaysian Tioman Island - At the Decision Point

Tekek is a small village, almost centrally located onattract more tourists, Tioman was given a free port
the west shore of Tioman. Due to its central location,status. This had attracted more investment. A
and its natural shelter from the rough open sea, itcontroversial marina was built intended to draw more
was rightfully chosen as the entry point to the island.tourist and it has caused heavy siltation affecting the
It has the only immigration terminals for the island,coral reef and other marine life.
serving the incoming as well as the out-going trafficsBeaches at Tekek are considered average, by Pulau
to Mersing, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.Tioman's standard. I think this is because of its
There are a couple of ways for tourists to reachlocation, some sections of the beach had to resort
Tioman. If you come from Kuala Lumpur, you canto retaining walls stop further erosion especially during
take a flight from Subang Airport. Subang Airport isthe monsoon seasons. However the southern part of
the old airport located about ten km from the cityTekek offers beautiful beaches near the Babura
center. The flight is operated by Berjaya Air, theSeaview Resort and Samudra Swiss Cottage. The
same group that operates the Berjaya Resort inwater is crystal-clear.
Tioman. Alternatively, you can take the six hour busFurther south, there are a number of lookout points
ride to Mersing followed by another 3 hours ferry toperched on top of a hill along the asphalt road that
Tioman. Unfortunately, the ferry service is notleads to Berjaya Tioman Beach, Golf & Spa Resort.
punctual, as it depends on the tide. At low tide theThe view can be considered attractive as you can
ferry will not be able to dock due to the shallowsee the contrast between the open sea and the lush
water.green forest. There is an interior road leading Juara,
If you are coming from Singapore, you have moreon the eastern side of the island. If you like, you can
choice. You can take Berjaya Air flight from Seletartrek across the tropical green to the side of the
Airport or you can catch a ferry from Tanah Merahisland. The journey will normally take about two
Terminal. It will take you direct to Tekek in Tiomanhours. Then you can take a boat ride back to Tekek.
Island. The cheapest mean is of course by bus toDespite the recent development, Tekek can still
Mersing and followed by the ferry ride.maintain the natural beauty and attraction. We hope
The Development of Tekek Tioman is under thethe authority realize that people come to the island
state of Pahang. Many, including the local would haveto enjoy its natural beauty and serenity, not for the
though that it is under Johor, as the access point tocomfort of the modern amenities.
the island is from Mersing, in Johor. In an effort to