The Story of Bidong Island: A History of Vietnamese Refugees
Background of Bidong Island
Bidong Island was originally quiet and uninhabited. The island has an area of 203 hectares and is separated by the South China Sea, with the journey from the mainland taking about 30 minutes. Most of the island consists of hilly highlands, while only 12 hectares is undulating flat land. Such terrain makes this island a favorite destination for fishermen to shelter from the monsoon winds.
Bidong Island is a hidden gem located off the coast of Terengganu, Malaysia. At the beginning, I did not think that this island holds so many stories of history and amazing natural beauty. In this post, I will share my personal experience of visiting Bidong Island, from exploring its touching history to its enchanting natural beauty.
Travel to
Island
Bidding
My journey starts from Kuala Terengganu, where I took a speedboat to Bidong Island. The trip took about 45 minutes, and along the way, I was able to enjoy the wide and clear view of the sea. Arriving at the island, I was greeted with a clean white sandy beach and turquoise sea water. I began my exploration of history by visiting some monuments and the remains of buildings that once housed the refugees.
In the middle of the island, there is a monument erected in honor of the refugees. The monument is decorated with carvings and inscriptions that tell of their suffering and hope
I also visited some structures that are still standing, such as schools, hospitals, and refugee shelters. Looking at these remains, I can imagine how difficult their life was here, but also full of spirit to survive.
After immersing myself in the history of Bidong Island, my second day was spent enjoying the natural beauty that this island has to offer.
The waters around Bidong Island are very rich in marine life. I had the opportunity to dive and snorkel to see the beauty of coral reefs and colorful tropical fish. This experience is truly amazing and gives incredible peace.
I also took the opportunity to walk in the tropical forest that surrounds the island. The fresh air and refreshing green scenery made me feel like I was in a different world.
Bidong Island
Bidong Island became a refuge for Vietnamese refugees from 1978 until around 2005. At its peak, the island accommodated up to 40,000 refugees. During its operation, approximately 250,000 refugees have passed through the doors of hope in this camp.
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In the meantime, the harmony of Pulau Bidong began to be undermined after the fall of the Democratic Republic of South Vietnam which is supported by America to Communist Government of North Vietnam in 1975. This event led to the emergence of a group known as Vietnamese Drifters (OHV), which repeatedly invaded the coastline of Peninsular Malaysia, especially in Terengganu Darul Iman.
Drifters
Vietnam
1975
This uninvited arrival received support from foreign countries, especially the United States, which urged the Malaysian Government to provide good treatment to Vietnamese Drifters (OHVs). On the basis of universal humanitarianism, the Malaysian government took a wise step by providing special settlements to facilitate security control and the distribution of aid.
Pulau Bidong experienced major changes after becoming a refugee camp. The land was confiscated to build a facility for the Vietnamese Air Force (OHV) personnel and refugees. Fishermen are prohibited from approaching the island within 200 yards (182.88 meters), even for shelter. The once harmonious and free island is now a forbidden island, including for the natives.
Escape Story Vietnam
1978
For 16 years, Bidong Island accommodated 252,390 Vietnamese refugees, making it internationally famous. The Malaysian government received a lot of praise for their good treatment of these refugees. During the OHV occupation, Bidong was known as Mini Saigon because of the population density and the lively activity.
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Bidong Island was closed and handed back to the Terengganu Government on November 30, 1991, leaving many memories. However, many historical remains have been destroyed due to non-serious actions and too many meetings. The island is still visited by former Vietnamese refugees or their relatives who come to visit the graves and appreciate their former refuge. It is appropriate that this island is developed with a concept Histo-Tourism, combines historical tourism and natural beauty.
Island Bidding
2024
Bidong Island not only offers beautiful scenery but also holds a touching history. Every corner of this island tells a story about the courage and perseverance of the refugees who once lived here. Visiting Bidong Island gave me a new perspective on life and made me appreciate more the peace and beauty we enjoy today.
