Diving into Sipadan: A World-Class Underwater Ecosystem

Sipadan is Malaysia’s only oceanic island, rising 2,000 feet from the sea floor. Located in the Celebes Sea near Borneo, it is one of the most pristine marine environments in the world. The island’s waters are home to over 400 species of fish and hundreds of coral species, making it one of the top dive locations on the planet. Due to its fragile ecosystem, strict conservation measures are in place. Only 175 divers are allowed per day, and there are no accommodations on the island to minimize human impact. Divers must arrange permits in advance and stay on nearby islands. Among the highlights of Sipadan’s underwater world are massive schools of bumphead parrotfish, green sea turtles, and resting white-tip sharks.