Abby heads off to the wilds of Borneo with a small group of friends from Malaysia to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gunung (Mount) Mulu National Park in the East Malaysian state of Sarawak. Travelling on a tight budget the group chooses to stay in a small but comfortable guesthouse on the perimeter of the park.
Pulau Kukup is one the largest uninhabited mangroves in the world. It is also the only one situated in Johor waters.
Pulau Kukup is one the largest uninhabited mangroves in the world. It is also the only one situated in Johor waters.
Today, Pulau Kukup has received international recognition as the island has been granted the status of a 'Wetland of International Importance' (RAMSAR site) by the Geneva-based Ramsar Convention Bureau.
A local folklore tells a tale of Pulau Kukup, an abode for five celestial princesess. One day, one of the princess fell in love with a sailor and they eloped. A curse was set upon the island of Kukup and it was submerged by sea.
The island later resurfaced, but it was covered in mangroves. Many have tried to settle on this island, but without success. Some say this is because the island is inhabited by spirits.
Pulau Kukup is today the home of countless species of wildlife. Among these are the playful monkeys, the quiet mudskipper or the nosy wild boar.
Enjoy the beauty of the national park, and be immersed in a delightful natural ecosystem, right here in Johor!
Key
Tips
Dress in light comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Be prepared to climb into and alight from a boat.
How
to get there
Public transport A regular taxi service is available between Pontian bus station, in the town centre, to Kukup.
Car From Johor Bahru, take the Jalan Skudai Highway and head for Pontian/ Pontian Kechil. Follow the signage to Kukup.
Car From Kuala Lumpur/ North, take the North-South Highway and exit at the Simpang Renggam toll (after Machap). Then take the left turn and head for Pontian/Benut. Thereafter, follow the signboards to Kukup.
Who
to contact
Pulau Kukup Johor National Park,
Lot 139, Mukim, Air Masin,
82300 Kukup, Pontian, Johor.
Tel: 607 - 696 9355
Fax: 607- 696 9366
or alternatively contact Tourism Malaysia Johor Office at +607-222 3590 / 3591 or Email to mtpbjhb@tourism.gov.my
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