Pangkor Vacations, Pangkor Vacation Reviews, Tourism Guide

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Pangkor Island, an island located off the shores of Lumut town, is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Perak state. It has a land area of only 8 square kilometers, and a population of approximately 25,000 islanders. It is heavily promoted as a low-key tourist destination by the Malaysia government, but fishing and fish products remain major industries.

The name Pangkor actually originates from the Thai word 'Pang Ko' meaning 'Beautiful Island'. This is a very apt description for this island in the sun. The people of Pangkor are mostly fishermen (who catch mainly cuttlefish and anchovy) and local traders who live in a chain of villages that thread along the eastern shores facing the mainland.

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 a contender to the Perak throne and the British government (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 among western backpackers.