A Beautiful Harmony
Stunning Dive into Malaysia's Underwater World
Get ready to dive into Malaysia's underwater realm! Did you know that Malaysia is home to some of the most magnificent and unique marine life, such as sea turtles and coral reefs? These stunning creatures have enchanted the hearts of people for centuries, and still amaze us today with their exceptional abilities and interesting histories.
Leatherback Sea Turtles
Leatherback Turtles, known for their unique shell made of thin, tough, and rubbery skin that’s strengthened by thousands of tiny bones, are the largest sea turtles on the planet. They were named “Leatherback” due to the leathery texture of their shell which helps them withstand the cold water and pressure of deep dives. These turtles have been around for more than 100 million years and are now considered a critically endangered species.
Did you know that Leatherback Turtles in Malaysia primarily nest on the mainland beaches of Terengganu, along a 15 km stretch of beach centered in Rantau Abang? This makes Terengganu a popular destination for tourists who want to witness the incredible sight of baby turtles hatching and making their way to the ocean.
The Leatherback Turtles in Malaysia are capable of diving to a depth of 1,200 meters in search of food? They also play an important role in controlling the population of jellyfish, making them not only fascinating, but also important members of the ocean ecosystem.
Olive Ridley Sea Turtle
Another fascinating species of turtle in Malaysia is the Olive Ridley Turtle, known for their olive green shell and its small size. They are omnivores and feed on a variety of sea creatures, including shrimp, crabs, snails, and jellyfish. These turtles are also known to lay their eggs in massive synchronized nests, called Arribadas, where thousands of female turtles come together to lay their eggs.
Green Turtles
And what’s so special about the Green Turtles, also known as the Penyu Agar?
They are the only herbivores among the different species of turtles found in Malaysia and can grow up to 180kg in weight and 120cm in length, making them some of the largest sea turtle species in the world.
Coral Reefs: The Rainforests of the Sea
Coral Reefs, which are not only beautiful but also crucial to an important aspect of the ocean's biodiversity and livelihood for many Malaysians. Sadly, due to threats such as coastal development damage and the impact of climate change, Coral Reef conservation is an increasingly pressing issue. Despite this, the beauty and importance of these ecosystems cannot be overstated and continues to captivate the hearts of many people.