The Perhentian Islands have long been popular among backpackers due to its beautiful beaches, turquoise blue waters, and the hippie vibes on Long Beach. Its popularity has since increased even further. Today, the islands draw budget holidaymakers from around the world, as well as its own mainland.
Although this has significantly improved the livelihoods of the local community, it has also led to negative consequences. Irresponsible and unsustainable tourism increase pressure on Perhentian's marine ecosystems. Coupled with global warming causing an increasing frequency of coral bleaching events, the health of reefs around the islands are declining.
You can support the island's transition from conventional to sustainable tourism by making eco-friendly choices when you come to the Perhentian Islands on holiday. This shows that tourists want businesses to provide these choices, and that sustainable business is good business.
ENVIRONMENTAL VOLUNTEERING IN PERHENTIAN
If you're looking for environmental volunteering options in Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands is a fantastic option. The Perhentians host Malaysia's first marine conservation volunteering project, founded by Ecoteer. Since the Perhentian Turtle Project began in 2015, two more volunteer-driven initiatives have been added. One project relates to education of island children, and the other relates to conservation research and stewardship. These projects offer plenty of time in the water and the experience of local village life, while contributing to marine habitat regeneration.
Find out more about marine conservation volunteering in the Perhentian Islands through the projects below. Why not choose a volunteering holiday, and see Perhentian from a different angle?
VOLUNTEERING ON HOLIDAY 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 as a regular tourist at resorts. Some of the Green Fins certified dive centres may also have initiatives. See our Sustainable Perhentian map for where to find such initiatives.
Click on the icons on the map for more information. Open more map layers by clicking the drawer icon next to the map title.
Contact us here if you want to suggest corrections or additions to the map. Thank you for contributing!
CONSERVATION PROJECTS HOSTED IN RESORTS
Projects include a turtle hatchery in Bubbles Resort, and a coral nursery at Alunan resort. Visit them while on your holiday to learn more, and support the projects.
BEACH CLEANUPS
Apart from the regular beach cleanups by the Ecoteer volunteering projects, there may be big clean-up events organised in Perhentian as well. Tourists can participate in these, and experience the local gotong royong spirit.
REEF CLEANUPS
Some Green Fins certified dive centres in the Perhentian islands carry out reef cleanup dives. You may be able to join these as a tourist, and learn how to remove marine debris.
