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"With long sandy beaches, geological formations and rainforest treks, Similajau, just 20km northeast of Bintulu offers a host of activities from trekking to birdwatching and coastal and river cruises."
Similajau National Park situated in Bintulu Division (about 30 kilometre from the town) provides recreational ground for the people within the central region of Sarawak. It has one of the most beautiful coastal areas in Malaysia with miles of unspoiled white and golden sand and rocky beaches facing the South China Sea.
First gazetted on 1 December 1976 and published to public on 20 April 1978. It covers the area of 7,064 hectares of virgin forest, starting from Sungai Likau in the south and as far as 30 kilometre stretch to Similajau River to the north. Another 1,932 hectares of areas was extended to the park on 17 February 2000 this made the total area to 8,996 hectares. Even though it’s a small area of strip land running from North-South direction, approximately 30 kilometre, but it is rich in flora and fauna that provided nature lovers with rich experience and activities.
The flora consist of three main types namely; beach, kerangas and mixed dipterocarp forest, which provide home to various species of plants, trees and wildlife. Among the well-known plants found here are the Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longisolia) and Bintangor trees (Barringtonia Asiatica). The terrestrial fauna of the park boasts 24 recorded species of mammals, such as gibbons, banded langurs and long-tailed macaque.
The Park records the presence of 185 species of birds, which include hornbills and migratory water birds like Storm’s Stork. A very noteworthy reptile found here is the Saltwater Crocodile. Lucky visitors may be able to sight dolphins out amongst the waves. Occasionally, green turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Visitors are advised that turtles are totally protected animals and that it is an offence to disturb them or their eggs.
Last viewed - May 17, 2008
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