Pulau Pangkor is an island off the
coast of Perak in north-west
peninsular Malaysia, reached by ferry
either from the old jetty or from Marina Island jetty both located in Lumut (a small coastal town that links to Ipoh through Sitiawan). It has a land
area of only 8 square kilometers, and a population of approximately 25,000
islanders. It is promoted as a low-key tourist destination by the Malaysian
government, but fishing, seafood and other fishing-related products remain
major industries.Historically, Pangkor was a refuge for local
fishermen, merchants and pirates. In the 17th century, the Dutch built a fort in an effort to control
the Perak tin trade. In 1874, it was the location of a historic treaty between
the British government and a contender for the
Perak throne (The Pangkor
Treaty), which began the British colonial domination of the Malay
Peninsula.Pangkor is famous for its fine beaches and a mix of low
budget to 5 star accommodations. Teluk Nipah and Coral Bay on the north west of
the island is extremely popular with travellers from Europe. The quality of
sand in the Pasir Bogak Beach is far superior to that elsewhere on the island.
The sand is golden brown, quite similar to most leading prime beaches. There
are a few resorts in Teluk Nipah or Nipah Bay.