𝐌𝐚𝐛𝐮𝐥 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 - 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐚

Mabul gained its own recognition as one of the best muck-diving (a term used to describe limited visibility dives at shallow sites with usually sandy bottoms) sites in the world. Located at just about 35 minutes of a jetty ride away from Semporna, Mabul Islands is known to be one of the best muck diving sites across the world, your first take on the island is going to be the amazement of how close the corals are to the shore. While the other islands of Semporna are isolated and one may find the much-needed space, Mabul has over 2000 residents, and yet the island has managed to maintain its peace, quiet and natural aspects. From corals that are available to you at your foot to the milky way galaxy that is known to light up Mabul’s sky at night and provides a scenic backdrop that is visible from most parts of the island, this island is nothing short of heaven on earth. Located in Sabah, Mabul Island is the first Malaysian state to witness the golden rays of the sun every morning at about 5.45 am, and hence when here, this is an absolute must no miss phenomenon. What adds to the experience is that since the entire island is extremely conscious of its pollution control, the milky way and the sunrises are way clearer and more visible. Other fun activities that one might consider would be sea kayaking and the coral dives that are to die for. Explore Mabul in a Molokini transparent kayak to reach pristine stretches of sandy beaches, waterfront picnic areas and secret hideouts unreachable by foot. If you happen to find yourself on the Mabul Island in the months of April, be sure to attend their annual Regatta Lepa Festival, which takes place at Semporna. The entire festival is colourful to its soul and depicts the customs and traditions of the locals and is spread over three to four days with people pouring in from across the world to witness the festival. Some of the must witness activities of this festival include tug-of-war, small dugout boat race, and the duck catching competition.