Malaysia’s east coast district of Rompin has a bunch of surprises up its sleeve
for travellers. For us, the attraction was its Sailfishery but the diving at Tioman
Island exceeded expectations as well. We found the locals super friendly, the
local food amazing and found some really impressive sustainability projects
operating on the island of Tioman. If you want to catch a Sailfish, then this is
easily the best place in the world to do it.
Culture
Remember that you are in a predominantly Muslim country and there are a
few basic things you can do to respect their culture. Always remove your
shoes before entering a house or place of worship. If you do visit a
mosque remember to cover up – women should cover their heads, shoulders
and legs, men should also cover their legs. Most mosques provide robes and
scarves if you ask.
Always ask permission before taking photographs at places of worship and
avoid using the forefinger to point, instead use the thumb with the four fingers
folded under. Public shows of affection are a no no so avoid touching anyone
of the opposite sex in public. Finally, use your right hand to eat, pass things
and touch people never your left.
Fishing
The district of Rompin has to be the Sailfish capital of the world. You can
catch a dozen fish in a day here during the peak of the season and this is a
catch and release fishery so don’t expect to weigh in fish. When it comes to
diving Tioman Island is world class with extraordinary biodiversity particularly
with regard to corals.
