Pulau Labuan (Labuan Island)

Located about 14km off the southern part of Labuan island, is the Labuan Marine Park, which is comprised of three islands - Rusukan Besar, Rusukan Kecil and the largest of the three, Kuraman Island. Reputed to be a world-class fishing destination, the famed, clear blue waters surrounding these three islands makes it a perfect place for snorkelling and swimming.

Wreck diving is one of the star attractions of Labuan as a holiday destination. And then there's Labuan's 4 and 5-star rated shipwreck dive which is said to be some of the best in Malaysia. Featuring wrecks from World War II, these wrecks are located at an average depth of about 20m.

One of four wrecks you can dive off Labuan is the Australian wreck, the SS De Klerk that was built in the 1890?  in Amsterdam. It sank in 1949 after hitting a mine. It's 85 metres long, lying about 22m below the surface.

About 24km southwest of Rusukan Kecil lies the infamous American Wreck, formerly the USS Salute that was built in Seattle in 1943.

The Cement Wreck, West of Kuraman island, a former 92m freighter named Tung Hwang, stands upright and is covered with soft and hard corals. Its cargo hold and docks are accessible to divers.

Don't miss the dive to the Blue Wreck which is just northwest of the Kuraman island. Blue Water is the Mabini Padre, a Phillipine fishing trawler which sank in 1981 as a result of fire on board, but is otherwise intact structure, and one of the favourite subject for underwater photographers.

Kuraman also has two beautiful white beaches, perfect for picniking and sun-bathing. The island is surrounded by hard corals, the most conspicuous species of the coral reef is the Acropora tubinaria. The corals are found in water 8 - 13m deep. Visitors can choose camp out at these quiet, unspoilt islands provided they ensure the cleanliness and pristine condition here is not compromised upon their departure back to Labuan. The hike around the small forest on Rusukan Kecil can be an interesting experience as well, with rare butterflies and bird species to admire

As a weekend getaway, Papan Island offers tourists multiple pleasures. Only five minutes boat ride from Labuan, Papan Island is the most developed island, with beautiful landscaping and an old colonial lighthouse. Other than its blessed blue waters and underwater treasures, this tiny island also has attractions such as the Mini Agriculture Park which houses an interesting collection of plant life from the region. Favourite activities on this island includes trekking, picnics and of course, swimming and snorkelling. Papan Island is a popular weekend getaway for visitors from Brunei as well as locals who go there for trekking, picnics and snorkelling. Although there are chalets for rent, camping sites are more commonly found and used here. For more information on Labuan, please contact the Labuan Tourism Action Council, Tel: 6087-408600.

Undoubtedly a world-class fishing destination. The island, its blue water and sea treasures, is truly captivating to all. It has for centuries enthralled visitors with her charming beauty, idyllic bays, pristine beaches, and vibrant tropical forests.

Hence it comes as no surprise that she has been a welcome stopover for adventurers in the old days.

The main island offers fantastic stretches of white powdery sands and numerous coves that guarantee privacy and tranquility. The smaller island beckons those with an interest in observing rustic fishing villages.