On 18 August 2023, a group of 32 members of NRY CREWS, the staff sport & social club of NRY Architects, embarked on a three-day, two-night outdoor adventure trip to Terengganu. The itinerary was packed with activities, including snorkelling, trekking, houseboating, and visiting a kelah sanctuary.

Thursday Night – Setting Sail:

The group departed from Kuala Lumpur on Thursday night and arrived in Marang, Terengganu, early the next morning. After a quick breakfast, they took a speedboat to Kapas Island, a beautiful island with crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches.

Friday – Kapas Island Beckons:

Once on the island, the group checked into their campsite and had a light tea. Then, they set off on a snorkelling adventure. The waters around Kapas Island are home to a variety of marine life, including colourful fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles. The group spent the morning exploring the underwater world, snapping photos and enjoying the beauty of the sea.

After snorkelling, the group had lunch at the campsite. Then, they began their trek through the jungle to Teluk Berakit Besar, a secluded beach with stunning views of the South China Sea. The trek was not too difficult, and the group took their time, enjoying the lush greenery and the occasional glimpse of wildlife.

When they reached Teluk Berakit Besar, the group was blown away by the beauty of the beach. The white sand was soft and powdery, and the water was crystal-clear. The group spent the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, and taking photos.

Friday Evening – Terengganu’s Cultural Gems:

In the late afternoon, the group headed back to the campsite to freshen up before dinner. They then took a boat back to Marang town.  En route to Kuala Terengganu, as they approached the picturesque Masjid Terapung, they stopped for solat Jama’ and proceeded to Pasar Payang, known for its vibrant local culture. This was a quick shopping stop, an opportunity to immerse ourselves in Terengganu’s rich heritage. Their journey continued to Pantai Mengabang Telipot for dinner, where they paused at the Drawbridge for a group photo session. The first day culminated with a delicious dinner at Warung Pok Nong.

Friday Night – The Night Unfolds:

Following dinner, they checked in at Tanjung Vista hotel and enjoyed some free time to explore the city. Whether strolling through the new ‘night market’ at Payang Walk, exploring KTCC Mall, or taking a leisurely walk along Batu Buruk Beach, Terengganu’s vibrant nightlife provided a perfect backdrop for our memorable evening.

Saturday – Houseboat Adventure in Kenyir:

On Saturday morning, the group checked out of their hotel and departed for Pengkalan Gawi, Kenyir, where they boarded their houseboat. The houseboat cruise was a unique and unforgettable experience. The group sailed through the beautiful Kenyir Lake, surrounded by lush green hills and forests.

Along the way, the group stopped at Taman Herba, a beautiful island with a variety of herbal plants. They also stopped at Lasir Waterfall, where they could swim and enjoy the refreshing water. In the evening, the group arrived at Pulau Pertang, where their houseboat was stationed for the night.

Saturday Evening – A Night on the Water:

After dinner, the group enjoyed some karaoke and games on the houseboat. They also had the opportunity to do some fishing and swimming.

Sunday – A Date with Nature at Kelah Sanctuary:

On Sunday morning, the group had breakfast on the houseboat and then cruised to Kelah Sanctuary. Kelah is a type of freshwater fish that is native to Malaysia and Southeast Asia. The Kelah Sanctuary is a protected area where visitors can see kelah in their natural habitat.

The group walked a short distance to a viewing platform where they could see the kelah swimming in the river. They also learned about the kelah and the importance of protecting this endangered species.

After visiting the Kelah Sanctuary, the group cruised back to Pengkalan Gawi, where they boarded their bus and departed for Kuala Lumpur.

In Summary:

Our outdoor adventure with the NRY CREWS in Terengganu was nothing short of magical. From the pristine beaches of Kapas Island to the tranquil waters of Kenyir and the lush sanctuaries of Kelah, this trip was a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and bonding with friends.

As they returned to the hustle and bustle of everyday life, all of them were carried with the memories of Terengganu’s beauty and the camaraderie forged during this remarkable journey. Terengganu had offered them a glimpse of paradise, a respite from the routine, and an opportunity to connect with nature and each other. They departed with hearts full of gratitude and a promise to return to this enchanting destination one day.