You can be a citizen scientist while on holiday in the Perhentian Islands!
Conservation and community groups in the Perhentian Islands run several marine conservation initiatives. These seek to improve management of the Marine Park, as well as support marine research in Perhentian.
For tourists who are interested in giving back to nature, the Perhentian Islands don’t only host voluntourism projects. You can also participate in conservation projects and community activities. Some of the Green Fins certified dive centres may also have initiatives. See our Sustainable Perhentian map for where to find conservation projects.
The northeast monsoon brings heavy rainfall and high winds to the islands from November to February. However, Tioman’s southerly location and large size mitigates the effects of the monsoon. Although most tourism businesses close in the monsoon season, Tioman can receive larger boats at its ferry terminal. So it is still possible to visit in the low season.
The northeast monsoon brings heavy rainfall and high winds to the islands, closing down tourism from November to February. In the opposite southwest monsoon, the weather turns sunny and relatively dry. The skies are clearest near the peak of the season, good not only for beach activities but also for stargazing.
The best time to visit Perhentian for peak weather is between July and September. However, the islands will be crowded at this time. Come in the shoulder season to avoid the crowds. Note that Malaysian public and school holidays will also affect tourist arrivals.
Marine parks attract a lot of tourists because they are typically areas of outstanding biodiversity and natural beauty. However, the primary purpose of a Marine Park is to protect a portion of the marine ecosystem. Therefore, some activities normally associated with tourism are prohibited in a Marine Park.
