Tun Sakaran Marine Park
Introduction
Tun Sakaran Marine Park (TSMP), also known as Semporna Islands Park, is a marine sanctuary located off the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia. Established in 2004, it encompasses 350 square kilometers of pristine waters and 10 square kilometers of land, making it Sabah’s largest marine park The park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, featuring vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and the unique Bajau Laut (Sea Gypsies) communities who reside in stilt houses and houseboats within the park
Address
Tun Sakaran Marine Park
Kompleks Taman-Taman Sabah
Jalan Bubul Batu 1½
Peti Surat 163
91308 Semporna
Sabah, Malaysia
Tel: +60 89 782014
Fax: +60 89 782037
sabahparks.org.my
Key Facts Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | East coast of Sabah, Malaysia |
| Established | 2004 |
| UNESCO Recognition | Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2014 |
| Area | 350 km² (340 km² sea, 10 km² land) |
| Highest Point | Bohey Dulang Peak (607 meters) |
| Flora & Fauna | Over 255 coral species, 500+ fish species, giant clams, sea turtles, etc. |
| Key Attractions | Bohey Dulang Island, Sibuan Island, Mantabuan Island, Bajau Laut culture |
| Popular Activities | Snorkeling, scuba diving, island hopping, hiking, cultural visits |
| Operating Hours | Daily: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Official Website | Sabah Parks |
Entry Ticket Fees
| Visitor Type | Fee (MYR) |
|---|---|
| Local Adults (MyKad) | 10 |
| Local Children (MyKad) | 5 |
| Foreign Adults | 30 |
| Foreign Children | 15 |
| Guided Tour (Optional) | 10 |
| Bohey Dulang Hike Fee | Included in park fee We Seek Travel |
Key Highlights
- Bohey Dulang Peak: A 607-meter hike offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands and turquoise lagoons.
- Bajau Laut Culture: Experience the unique lifestyle of the Sea Gypsies, who have lived in the park for generations.
- Diverse Marine Life: Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with over 500 fish species and 255 coral species.
- Island Variety: Visit eight islands, each offering unique landscapes and ecosystems.
- Pristine Reefs: Dive or snorkel at renowned sites like Church Reef and Kapikan Reef.
Things to Do
- Snorkeling & Scuba Diving: Discover diverse marine life at various dive sites.
- Island Hopping: Visit islands like Bohey Dulang, Sibuan, and Mantabuan.
- Hiking: Trek to Bohey Dulang Peak for breathtaking views.
- Cultural Visits: Learn about the Bajau Laut communities and their traditions.
- Bird Watching: Spot various bird species in the park’s diverse habitats.
Best Time to Visit
- High Season (Dry Season): March to October; ideal for diving, snorkeling, and hiking with clear skies and calm seas.
- Low Season (Rainy Season): November to February; expect occasional rains and rough seas, which may affect outdoor activities.
How to Reach
- From Semporna: Take a 15-minute speedboat ride from Semporna Jetty to Bohey Dulang Island
- From Mabul Island: Approximately 1 hour by boat.
- From Mataking Island: Around 20 minutes by boat.
Guided tours are available and can be booked through local operators.
Accommodation Options
Within the Park: No large resorts; day trips are recommended.
Nearby Towns:
- Semporna: Offers a range of accommodations from budget to mid-range.
- Mabul Island: Home to luxury resorts and dive centers.
- Mataking Island: Known for upscale resorts and diving facilities.
Travel Tips
- Permits: Obtain a permit from Sabah Parks for activities like hiking and diving.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for hiking; rentals are available locally.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Avoid touching corals, refrain from feeding wildlife, and dispose of trash responsibly.
- Photography: Capture the natural beauty, but be respectful of local communities and their privacy.
Nearby Attractions
- Sipadan Island: World-renowned diving destination, approximately 1 hour by boat from Semporna.
- Mabul Island: Famous for muck diving and vibrant coral reefs, about 30 minutes by boat.
- Mataking Island: Offers luxury resorts and excellent snorkeling opportunities, around 1 hour by boat.
Conclusion
Tun Sakaran Marine Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers. With its diverse marine life, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, it offers an unforgettable experience for all visitors. Whether you’re diving into vibrant reefs, hiking to scenic viewpoints, or immersing yourself in the unique Bajau Laut culture, TSMP promises a journey of discovery and wonder.
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