What's wrong with Perhentian Islands?

For many Malaysians, they'll think of Perhentian Islands as one of the ideal spots to go for vacation. Sandy beaches, interesting people to meet, a few places with good corals. Wait, just a few? Yeap, that's true as according to the statistics released by Reef Check Malaysia, in 2007, Perhentian has a coral cover of 34% as compared to 50% coral cover at Tioman and Redang. So what seems to be among the causes that has harness the underwater forest?

One simple answer: humans. Last Saturday, Leong Siok Hui wrote in Lifestyle section of The Star newspaper about what are the issue on waste management in Perhentian Islands. As a collaboration with WildAsia, the articles written in the Rethink Travel segment raised concerns about despite the two islands' beauty (Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil), there seems to be a mess that has been brought upon by the following:
i) improper waste management;
ii) bad practise of tourism; and
iii) unsustainable development.
Not that I want to point finger at anyone, but the issues are very challenging that many resort owners, dive centre operators and villagers of Perhentian island would face. I mean what's an island life would be if the environment is not as pretty as it used to be?

To read more on the issue, please do some time reading on the following articles:

• Trouble in Paradise
• Doing Their Part
• What the Experts Say
• What the Authorities Say