THE ISLE OF THE SLEEPING DRAGON
Tioman Island, located 32 kilometres off the eastern
peninsula’s coast, is more than a charming sun- drenched retreat. It possesses
an enchanting local legend that claims the island as the manifestation of a
forlorn dragon princess.
Locals believed, a long time ago, South China Sea was home
to a family of mighty dragons. The dragon princess had just gotten and the
newlyweds decided to explore the southern part of the sea. As the dragon couple
frolicked and swam gleefully southward, the dragon princess realized she had
lost her silk bridal shawl. She sought the permission of her husband to recover
the shawl. The dragon prince was reluctant to let her go because turning back
on an intended journey was a bad omen. But, she did lose her precious bridal
shawl and she promised him that she would return soon.
Swiftly she traced back her route, northbound.
Unfortunately, it took her sometime before she found her silk bridal shawl.
Ecstatic, she swam speedily towards her awaiting prince. Alas, when she reached
the spot, her prince was gone. Surprised, the princess continued to swim all
over in search of her husband. Exhausted and lonely, she stopped. As tears of
sorrow fell, she held her silk bridal shawl tightly and pledged to wait for her
beloved husband at the very spot. Centuries had past but she waited
unrelentingly until she grew weak.
A sprite took pity on her and cast a
sleeping spell where she now remains, frozen in eternity as a beautiful island
with a unique landscape. The granite twin peaks of Tioman Island, popularity
known as Chula Naga ( Dragon’s Horns),seem to verify this touching tale and the
ragged mountain terrain at the back of these twin peaks portrays the profile of
a sleeping dragon.
Tioman Island is perhaps the best sanctuary to retreat and
rejuvenate. It has now become the island getaway for nearby city slickers and
holidaying families from all over. Enjoy the cool refreshing breeze and the
soothing waves or take a stroll and enjoy the sunset along some of the famous
beaches near the following villages: tekek, Air batang, Genting , salang and
Juara. These wonderful golden beaches subside to clear blue waters complete
with colourful corals, ideal for swimming, snorkeling and diving. Other
interesting sites in Tioman include waterfalls nestled in the verdant hill at
Mukut.
No comments:
Post a Comment