Pulau Kukup (Johor) National Park was established in 1997 to protect one of the largest mangrove islands in the world. This unique island that spans 647 ha is an important refuge for many mangrove-associated plants and animals; a number of which are considered to be rare or threatened species. It is as well consider as Malaysia’s largest mangrove island covering an area of about 800 acres, with up to 647 hectares of mangroves.
After the implementation of series of mangrove conservation programs, Pulau Kukup has been transformed into one of Johor’s national parks and serves as world’s wetland reserve. Visitors can visit the national park by taking a short ferry ride from the Kukup town's jetty.
Facilities
The park offers various visitor friendly facilities and navigational path throughout. From boardwalks, viewing platforms and informative signages, these facilities make it the perfect place to observe and uncover the web of life within this unique interface between land and sea.
The wooden platform welcomes visitors with its unique arc design, making it an Instragram worthy spot to begin their photo taking journey.
One of the things that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Pulau Kukup National Park is climbing to the top of the 5-storey suspension bridge, where you can have an absolutely panoramic view of the park.
Visitors can also have an in-depth exploration of the mangroves by walking through the 600 meters long bridge—Arboretum. Aside from having a breathtaking view, you can also breathe fresh air as you enjoy seeing the swamp crab, fish and more.
Mangrove and Wildlife
This mangrove park is home to a few rare animals like fish, shrimp, crabs, shellfish, insects, and more. As well as wild animals like lizard, river otter, wild boar, leaf monkey and numerous species of birds.
The park is an important stopover site for migratory waterbirds undertaking the perilous journey along the East Asian – Australasian Flyway (EAAF). The 807 ha of mudflats that surround the park are productive feeding grounds for these birds during low tide, whereas the mangroves provide a safe place for them to roost.
That also means there will be a lot of monkeys freely roaming in the forest and on the platform. While it is fascinating to take photos of the animals up close, beware of your personal belonging while you are near them.
The park is also important for the local human population living on the Kukup mainland. Its mangroves are a fish nursery that supports the local fishing industry, whereas its mudflats are rich with shellfish that provide a source of food and income. Overlooking the Straits of Melaka, one of the busiest shipping routes in the world, the island shields the coastal villages from the full force of wind and waves. In January 2003, the park was designated by the Ramsar Convention as a Wetland of International Importance, or Ramsar Site.
Admission
The ferry fees from jetty to island is RM 6 two ways per adult, and the entrance fees to the island is RM 5 per adult.
