Jet ski rides across Malacca Straits to Pulau Besar latest attraction for state

SHAH ALAM - A new attraction has been added to the list in Melaka as tourists can now jet ski to Pulau Besar from the mainland.

Based on a report by English daily The Star, Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Melaka chapter chairman Goh Hock Gin said the ride starting from Kota Laksamana to the island located 15 kilometres away from the mainland will take about 30 minutes.

"This is a unique water sports attraction that MATTA is helping to promote during our fair on Friday (Oct 6) at a shopping mall here (Melaka).

"I was told there would be a guide for novices riding the jet skis to the island to ensure their safety," he was quoted saying in an interview with the English newspaper.

Goh also said MATTA has also advised the jet ski operator to adhere to the taboos and local customs linked to the island known for its ancient tombs, shrines and mausoleums, when bringing tourists there.

"MATTA is helping to promote the jet ski adventure and the onus is on the operator to ensure other aspects are adhered to, including the dos and don'ts when on the island," he said.

God said packages such as the sunshine cruise tour and island hopping will also be introduced during the fair on that day (Oct 6) with special discounts.

He said the island hopping activity will focus on the eco-tourism segment of Visit Melaka Year 2024.

"Pulau Undan, Pulau Nangka and Pulau Dodol are covered under the eco-tourism tour package," he said adding that the cluster of three islands, had been marked as the first national marine park in the state.

Besides that, he said MATTA will encourage eco-tourism activities such as diving and snorkelling at the islands.

"The Fisheries Department on 81 species of hard corals and 19 species of colourful soft corals of the Gorgonian type in the area, was a boost for the local tourism industry," he said.