PANGKOR: The phenomenon of receding seawater from Pulau Pangkor to Pulau Giam along a 400m stretch has attracted hundreds of tourists who do not want to miss the opportunity to enjoy its wonders and beauty.
It allows people to walk from the beach along a sandbank starting at about 11am as water depth reaches its lowest at only 0.2m.
Although it only lasts for an hour before the tide returns to normal and reaches four metres, that has not stopped visitors from recording and taking Instagram-worthy moments along the stretch.
Nor Fidah Roslan, 44, came with five family members from Senawang, Negri Sembilan, to Perak for medical purposes but did not want to miss out on the opportunity to experience the phenomenon for themselves.
“Before this, we had only heard about it and now, we are here. It is totally worth the experience!” she said when met by Bernama.
Another visitor, Norita Rusli, 48, who made a stop in Pangkor from Gopeng, also shared her excitement.
“Because the water has started to rise to the level of the thighs, we were instructed to return to the land for fear of something untoward happening. Even so, I am still happy for my wish has been fulfilled,” she said.
Part-time photographer Abdullah Mohamad, 36, did not forgo the chance to take pictures and videos of the phenomenon to show family members back home in Kampung Sungai Rokam, Ipoh.
“This area is closely monitored by a rescue team to ensure the safety of the people. As visitors, we will comply with their instructions because they are more familiar with the surroundings than most of us,” he said.
Pangkor fire station chief Shah Al Haffiz Mohd Redzuan said his team had been on alert since Jan 31 by conducting surveillance throughout the phenomenon.
“Every visitor who wants to cross the sea will be monitored not only by the fire brigade but also the water rescue team, including the Civil Defence Force, ‘beach boys’ from the Pangkor Recreation Association, Rela members and police on duty.
“Members of the public will be instructed to turn back as soon as the water level starts to rise.
“But there are a few visitors who are still stubborn, claiming to be good swimmers and want to enjoy the fun,” he said.