Rare ‘Split Sea’ Returns to Pangkor, Thousands Cross Sandy Path to Giam Island
LUMUT: A rare natural phenomenon at Teluk Nipah on Pangkor Island has once again drawn large crowds, as a low-tide “split sea” formed a sandy pathway linking the beach to Pulau Giam.
The phenomenon allowed visitors to walk nearly 400 metres across the seabed for about one and a half hours, creating a festive atmosphere along one of Pangkor’s most popular beaches.
Manjung Municipal Council Duty Free Island Management Unit director Anas Malek Ishak said more than 3,000 visitors were recorded during the event, which is expected to last for three consecutive days.
He said local authorities had taken proactive measures by coordinating closely with various enforcement and safety agencies to ensure public safety.
Among the agencies involved were the Royal Malaysia Police, the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia, the Malaysia Civil Defence Force, and the Department of Fisheries Malaysia.
Anas reminded visitors to remain cautious, as the exposed sandbank is home to marine life such as sea cucumbers, corals, squid, and small fish.
Rescue personnel would signal with whistles once the tide began to rise, instructing visitors to return to shore immediately.
Tight Safety Control and Continuous Monitoring
Pangkor Fire and Rescue Station chief Mohd Saiful Bahri Abdul Talib said 10 personnel and three rescue assets were deployed throughout the event as precautionary measures.
He explained that crossings were only permitted when water levels were between 0.3 and 0.4 metres and that visitors would be asked to return as noon approached due to rapidly rising tides.
Meanwhile, Pangkor Police Station chief Muhamad Faizol Kamaluddin said 17 officers, including tourist police, were stationed at the beach area to maintain order and safety.
Parents were advised to supervise their children closely, while visitors were reminded to safeguard their belongings.
Unique Experience Boosts Tourism Appeal
The phenomenon also attracted international tourists. Swiss visitor Alf Zeigler said he was excited to witness the split sea with his family for the first time.
He described the experience of walking across the seabed while observing marine habitats as truly memorable.
A teacher from Taiping, D Syimala, said she had long hoped to experience the phenomenon but was previously unable to due to work commitments.
She expressed satisfaction after successfully reaching Giam Island despite initial nervousness.
Tourism observers believe the recurring split sea phenomenon serves as a natural attraction that enhances Pangkor’s profile as a unique coastal destination, driving visitor numbers and contributing positively to the local economy.
-wilayah.com.my
