Besar Island, Johor

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Besar Island
Native name:
Pulau Besar formerly known as Pulau Babi Besar
Besar Island.jpg
Besar Island, Johor
Interactive map of Besar Island
Geography
Location South China Sea
Coordinates 2°26′30″N103°59′00″E / 2.44167°N 103.98333°E / 2.44167; 103.98333
ArchipelagoBabi Islands
Area4.77 km2 (1.84 sq mi)
Highest elevation258 m (846 ft)
Administration
State Flag of Johor.svg Johor
District Flag of Mersing, Johor.svg Mersing
Mukim Babi Islands
Demographics
Population184 (2020)
Languages Malaysian Malay, Johor-Riau Malay
Ethnic groups Malays
Additional information
Time zone
Postal code86800

Besar Island (Malay : Pulau Besar), also known as Babi Besar Island (Malay : Pulau Babi Besar) [1] is an island in Mersing District, Johor, Malaysia.

Contents

Name

A word of mouth legend tells of a fisherman's wife who was pregnant and craved for seaweed to eat. Upon eating the seaweed, she turned into a mermaid. Her husband was extremely angered by this, and screamed "babi! babi! babi!" ("pig! pig! pig!"; here used as an insult or curse), and called the island "pulau babi" ("pig island") from then on. [2]

Geology

The island, which is surrounded by Rawa, Sibu and Tinggi Island, is characterised by quiet, clean beaches of powdery white sand and crystal-clear azure waters. [3] To preserve the unspoiled marine life, the Government has gazetted it as a marine park to protect around 60 species of marine life from any activities that can harm their natural habitats within 2 nautical miles (3.7 km) around the island.

The island's highest point rises some 845 feet (258 m) above the sea level. Rich hues of wild vegetation are dappled throughout with the lush greens of the coconut palms and tropical jungles.

Administrative divisions

The island is divided into 6 villages, which are:

1. Atap Zing Village Atap Zing Village, located near the northern side of the island, is a peaceful settlement known for its simple zinc-roofed houses (hence the name “Atap Zing”). The village reflects the minimalist coastal lifestyle where residents live close to nature.

🐟 Main livelihood: Fishing and small-scale farming
🌅 Highlight: Stunning sunrise views over the South China Sea
🏡 Vibe: Quiet, rustic, and authentic

2. Batu Hitam Village
Batu Hitam Village (literally “Black Rock Village”) lies on the central part of the island’s coastline. The name comes from the unique black rocks scattered along parts of its beach.
This village is known for its strong fishing heritage and scenic seaside huts. Visitors can enjoy clear waters, snorkelling spots, and friendly interactions with local families.
🪸 Highlight: Rocky beach landscape and coral gardens offshore
🐠 Activities: Snorkelling, photography, beach exploration
👪 Population: Small but close-knit Malay community

3. Busong Village
Busong Village is one of the older settlements on the island, surrounded by lush greenery. Many locals here continue traditional net-weaving and boat-building, skills passed down through generations.

⚓ Main activities: Fishing, carpentry, and small trade
🌳 Experience: Observe local craftsmanship and wooden boat repairs
🐚 Nearby spots: Hidden mangroves and shallow lagoons ideal for nature walks

4. Teluk Bakau Village
Located along a crescent-shaped bay, Teluk Bakau Village is often admired for its crystal-clear waters and coconut groves. It’s a popular stop for island trekkers and local homestays.
🏖️ Highlight: Long sandy beach, calm waters for swimming
🐢 Nature: Occasional turtle sightings during nesting season
🛶 Recommended: Kayak rides along the bay or sunrise beach walks

5. Teluk Kampa Village
Teluk Kampa Village is situated near the southern coastline and offers one of the most scenic sunset views on Pulau Besar. It’s less populated, giving visitors a tranquil environment perfect for reflection and relaxation.
🌇 Highlight: Peaceful seaside evenings and soft golden sand
🌿 Experience: Learn about traditional drying of fish (ikan kering)
🏝️ Atmosphere: Calm, intimate, and untouched

6. Teluk Penagat Village
Teluk Penagat Village lies near the western end of the island and is known for its vibrant community life and cultural gatherings. It serves as a link between the local residents and visiting researchers studying island ecology and heritage.

🎣 Main activity: Deep-sea fishing
💬 Community: Friendly residents often welcome visitors with local stories
📸 Highlight: Colorful wooden boats and seaside jetty
[4]

Transportation

Besar Island jetty Besar Island Jetty.jpg
Besar Island jetty

The island is accessible by boat from Mersing Town in Johor mainland.

See also

References

  1. ↑ South China Sea. ProStar Publications. 2004. ISBN   978-1-57785-652-8.
  2. ↑ Zainul, Tihah (16 February 2019). "Kisah Lagenda Pulau Babi Besar dan Misteri Ikan Duyung di Johor". I Am Lejen. Retrieved 31 August 2023.
  3. ↑ "Aseania Resort Pulau Besar". Pulaubesar.net. Archived from the original on 12 September 2012. Retrieved 13 November 2013.
  4. ↑ "Besar Island Villages". MyTrip to Malaysia Pulau Besar.
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