English (英语) |

Marang fishing village can be seen from the bridge crossing over Sungai (River) Marang. At the end of the bridge having crossed from the southside (i.e. from direction of Rantau Abang) is a little dirt road leading into a fishing village where the fishermen park their boats and where they unload their catch. For the keen photographer, this is a fine place to capture some of that classic 'men-at-work' series. But if you want to catch the boat to Pulau Kapas (Cotton Island), then get yourself to Marang village. Again if you're crossing the bridge from the south, about 100m from the end of the bridge turn right into a narrow road. The village is situated at the mouth of the river.

The first time I visited Marang in 1991, it was bustling with travellers drawn by the tranquil setting of this Malay fishing village and the relaxed, friendly attitude of the local people. The street was lined with wooden shops and a few well-run guesthouses. Travellers would stop over at Marang village for a night or so and hop onto a fishing boat to be taken to Pulau Kapas. Then things began to change, the quaint wooden houses and shops were torn down to make way for modern concrete structures, a new jetty was built and walkways were constructed.

mending fishtraps called bubu

Although, all that was done in good faith for the safety of the visitors and the locals - much of the ambience disappeared with the ramshackle wooden houses. However, things are again changing for the folks here. Having realised their mistake and also the tragic loss of a steady and profitable income, the local community is committed to bringing back the old ways. There are plenty of village activities to sink yourself into but please remember that the local folk are not used to wayward behaviour and dressing.

Marang has seen a lot of changes due to the influx of tourists in the earlier years. The general idea of many resort owners and tour operators is to pack in as many people during the peak season as possible. So much said about this, there usually are some sacrifices made.

However, one of the few but most significant eco-friendly resorts in Malaysia, was Marang Resort & Safari. Marang Safaris & Resort, unfortunately, will not be opening its doors anytime soon. It was closed in April 2002 and rumours of a change of owners and a new management ,to date that has not materialised.

All said, Marang has some lovely beaches so try other resorts in the area if you still so choose to stay here.

Just be careful on the beach. The waves are usually very strong and there are undertows in certain parts of the beach. Be very careful with the children.

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