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Marine Park & Conservation
Set within Johor’s Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, Pulau Besar enchants visitors with turquoise seas, soft beaches and a peaceful island atmosphere perfect for relaxation and nature lovers.
A Protected Marine Paradise
Pulau Besar lies within the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, a spectacular marine protected area off the southeastern coast of Johor. This park forms part of the Seribuat Archipelago, a cluster of idyllic islands stretching from Pulau Tinggi to Pulau Sibu, where clear turquoise waters meet ancient volcanic landscapes and unspoilt coral gardens.
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Designated as a marine park zone extending two nautical miles from the lowest sea level datum, the area was established to protect and conserve Malaysia’s rich marine biodiversity. Today, waters surrounding 42 islands nationwide have been gazetted as Marine Parks under the Fisheries Act 1985, ensuring that coral reefs, seagrass beds and marine ecosystems are preserved for future generations.
The Sultan Iskandar Marine Park
Nestled near the coastal town of Mersing, the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park encompasses five main island clusters including Pulau Besar, Pulau Tinggi, Pulau Rawa, Pulau Sibu and Pulau Pemanggil. Once home to traditional Malay fishing villages and the occasional pirate hideout, these islands now blend local charm with modern hospitality, offering everything from cosy beach chalets to boutique resorts.
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Beneath the waves lies a vibrant underwater world alive with tropical fish, sea turtles, soft corals and sea fans. For divers and snorkellers, the area offers a living kaleidoscope of colour, while those staying on land can enjoy kayaking, beachcombing or simply relaxing by the water’s edge.
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Adding to its natural intrigue, Sibu Island, which is part of the same marine park, is home to volcanic rock formations estimated to be around 248 million years old, linking the region’s geological past to its present-day beauty. These features collectively form part of the Mersing Geopark and highlight Johor’s commitment to sustainable eco-tourism.
Responsible Exploration
The Marine Park exists not only for recreation but also for education and conservation. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy its beauty responsibly by following eco-friendly practices such as avoiding contact with coral reefs or marine life, using reef-safe sunscreen, reducing single-use plastic waste and following all resort and park authority guidelines.
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Such small actions help preserve the delicate marine ecosystems that make Pulau Besar so special.
Activities Allowed
Within the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, visitors can enjoy a range of low-impact and environmentally responsible activities such as diving, snorkelling, underwater photography, kayaking and paddle boarding.
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These activities allow guests to appreciate the park’s beauty while ensuring that no harm comes to the coral reefs or surrounding habitats.
Activities Prohibited
To protect the park’s biodiversity, any activity that could damage coral reefs or marine life is strictly prohibited and punishable under the Fisheries Act 1985. These include taking, capturing or disturbing any marine resources whether living or dead, using fishing gear or engaging in any form of fishing, anchoring boats in coral reef areas, stepping on or touching coral reefs, operating high-powered watercraft, disposing or depositing pollutants, building or placing any structure in the marine park waters, and conducting diving or snorkelling activities within boat lanes.
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Every visitor’s cooperation helps maintain the health and beauty of the marine environment for future generations.
Why Conservation Matters
The Sultan Iskandar Marine Park is more than a tourist attraction. It is a living sanctuary that supports countless marine species, coastal ecosystems and local livelihoods. Protecting this natural treasure ensures that Pulau Besar and its neighbouring islands continue to thrive as some of Malaysia’s most breathtaking island destinations.
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When you swim above the coral gardens, glide through crystal waters or watch the sunset over Pulau Besar’s palm-fringed shore, remember that you are part of its continuing story of preservation and respect for nature.
Conservation Charge and Fee Rates
Visitors entering Malaysia’s Marine Parks are required to pay a Conservation Charge, in line with the Fees Act 1951 and the Fees (Marine Parks Malaysia) Order 2017. The funds collected are channelled into the Marine Parks and Marine Reserves Trust Fund, which supports the protection, maintenance and enhancement of Marine Parks, ensuring continued visitor comfort and sustainability of the marine ecosystem.
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Payments can be made at the Mersing Jetty before departing for the island. Exemptions apply to residents who live permanently on islands within designated Marine Park areas.
Other Fee Rates
Additional charges may apply for specific activities and purposes within the Marine Park. These fees are regulated by the Department of Fisheries Malaysia to ensure all activities are conducted responsibly and in support of conservation efforts.