International
Bohey Dulang
Pearl Island, as known as Bohey Dulang Island and Sleeping Beauty Island, is a calm volcanic island not far from Semporna. The island is also a Japanese pearl culture station. Plenty of hotels in front of the island's majestic views from its highest peak. It is also a popular spot for enthusiasts of hiking, birdwatching, jungle trekking and scuba diving.
Bohey Dulang is one of the eight beautiful islands which make up Tun Sakaran Park, a marine park a few miles from the Malaysian coast of Borneo. This island is located in the state of Sabah and spans about 313 hectares. Along with the other seven islands, the Bohey Dulang creates one of the most spectacular lagoons in the Celebes Sea. It is recognized as a real paradise, a unique seabed surrounded by lush vegetation populated by a vast variety of birds and animals.
Before planning your escape here, here’s everything you need to know about Bohey Dulang.
1. It’s a paradise for bird lovers
Bohey Dulang was originally gazetted as a bird sanctuary in 1933, before being recognized as a state park along with its neighboring islands in 2004 by Sabah Parks. Remember to pack in your birdwatching gear – the island is rich in biodiversity and home to a wide variety of species such as pied hornbills, partridges, owls, fruit doves and more.
2. Explore Tun Sakaran Marine Parka
Located off the coast of Semporna, Tun Sakaran Marine Park is the largest marine park in Sabah that covers 340 square kilometers of the protected area. The park features eight beautiful islands that boast remarkable sceneries and a diverse marine ecosystem. Arrive in paradise as you embark on this journey that will take you to the wonders of the park. The tour will begin in the morning when you will meet your guide at a guest house in Semporna. After that, the guide will conduct a short orientation and safety briefing. You will also be handed complete snorkeling equipment before leaving for your first destination. Once the actual tour begins, you’ll be taken to the majestic islands around Tun Sakaran Marine Park. Swim among the abundant and diverse marine life, as you snorkel in three different spots. Enjoy a filling and delicious packed lunch that you will eat while adoring the surrounding landscape.
3. It’s possible to explore the entire island on foot
A ridge encircles the entire perimeter of the island. It is possible to cover it on foot if you follow the beach trail and mangroves – note that this will be a rocky climb, though. Expect to see plenty of plant species, such as the rare orchid that’s native to the area, along the way.
Prepare to be greeted by a host of tropical flora and fauna during the arduous but rewarding hiking trail to the top of Bohey Dulang Peak. Majestic views of the sapphire blue lagoon await those who make it through the hour long climb.
How to Get There: Bohey Dulang can be reached by organized tour via one of the many local operators. It takes just 45 minutes by boat from Semporna. If you want to visit it, you will need to register, usually included in the price of the trek, but it is always good to ask in advance. Tun Sakaran Park has been defined as the most beautiful atoll in the world, a must-see destination for anyone interested in discovering Malaysia.