KUALA TERENGGANU, March 2 — The recent phenomenon of high waves and strong winds that occurred in Terengganu has not affected the operations of 13 resorts and chalets in Pulau Redang and Pulau Lang Tengah.
Several operators of the resorts and chalets, when contacted by Bernama, said they resumed operations yesterday (March 1) as per the original schedule.
Redang Pelangi Resort manager Ee Lin Foo said many prospective guests had called to enquire about the latest situation on the resort island after learning that Terengganu had been hit by floods since Friday (Feb 25).
“However, they were satisfied when we reassured them that the boat ride to Pulau Redang was safe,” he said when contacted by Bernama today.
The tourism industry in resort islands in Terengganu had been closed to visitors since the onset of the Northeast Monsoon in November and began reopening in stages from yesterday (March 1).
Coral Redang Island Resort manager Marvin Cheah said many still think the tourism sector on the island has not reopened as they have not obtained the right information from reliable sources.
“They are worried after watching video clips which have gone viral on social media about the situation being risky and dangerous due to the big waves whereas this (incident) did not happen in Pulau Redang.
“As for the resort management, we are always in touch with visitors who have made reservations so that they understand the real situation here and are not influenced by false information being spread on social media,” he said.
Meanwhile, Summer Bay Resort executive chairman Chong Fah Ming said the resort was operating as normal with various exciting activities being offered at Pulau Lang Tengah, including hill climbing and extreme sports activities like via ferrata courses set against the backdrop of the South China Sea.
(Via ferrata means “iron route” in Italian. It is a special track on the surface of a hill, mountain, or cave using complete safety equipment for climbers to reach the summit more easily.)
“Despite the rain, these activities can still be done as we have many experienced trainers who assist visitors engaging in extreme sports.
“For now, snorkelling activities can also be undertaken as the weather in Pulau Redang and Pulau Lang Tengah is good. Each visitor will be briefed on current weather changes as their safety is our priority,” he added.
Sources: BERNAMA