Pulau Jerejak was known as the Alcatraz of Malaysia because of Jerejak Prison. This 362ha island is rich with historical events, flora and fauna.
Picture courtesy of travelrich.com.tw
The founder of Penang, Francis Light arrived at Pulau Jerejak in 1786 before heading to Penang and brought immigrats from other parts of Asia. As a precautionary measure step, these immigrants were sent to Jerejak before they were accepted in Penang. Thus the history of Pulau Jerejak begins...
Jerejak Detention Camp
From the Penang Island jetty, visitors will see the old Jerejak jetty and Quarantine Administration building which were built in 1911. Immigrants were brought to this Quarantine Center for health inspection before they were sent to Penang.
Between 1969 to 1993, the Quarantine Center was converted into a maximum-security prison to house criminals, thus earning the name 'The Alcatraz of Malaysia'. Presently, there are only 2 prison blocks left; the rest have all been destroyed over time. Visitors can view the prison walls filled with writings by the inmates, expressing their feelings and thoughts.
How to get there?
You can rent a bicycle and follow the
rough laterite trail of about 3km to the prison area.
Bunkers
Further up the Balqis trail on the eastern part of the island, visitors will be able to see 4 wells protruding above the ground. Underneath these wells, there are 8 huge bunkers measuring 15 feet wide x 30 feet length with a depth of 30 feet. Originally these bunkers were used to store water for passing ships, however there were rumors that during the war, the British army used these bunkers to store ammunition.
Viewing from the top of the well, you will see that the bunkers are now filled with water with overgrown roots.
How to get there?
Approximately another 1km walk after the end of the
Balqis trail.
Tuberculosis / Leprosy Hospital
The Tuberculosis / Leprosy Hospital was also located on the eastern part of the island. It was built in 1930 by the British Empire to accommodate 150 patients at a time. Although the hospital has been damaged over a period of time, part of the building still exists.
There are 2 blocks of 12 individual cells which were used to quarantine the most critical patients suffering from this disease. However, after Jerejak Island was converted to place criminals, these cells were used to house the most wanted criminals in Malaysia. Each cell measures about 8 feet x 8 feet with a small window to allow daylight in. There was no electricity in the cells, thus the inmates had to endure pitch black darkness at night in the thick jungle. The warden's house (which is the only building in that area that had electricity) is about 20 feet away.
How to get there?
Approximately another 500 meters walk after the end of the
Balqis trail.
Click here to read more on Trails of Pulau Jerejak.Interesting Facts
Pulau Jerejak is located 1.5 nautical miles from the island of Penang off the west coast of Malaysia.
Once a hospital for tuberculosis and leprosy patients and then a prison housing some of Malaysia's most wanted criminals; Pulau Jerejak has certainly seen its share of hardship and pain, but now the sounds of the past have died away and the island has taken on a fresh look, reverting back to its original splendour.
Pulau Jerejak offers endless opportunities to observe tropical flora and fauna and to
study nature in its own backyard. The walking trail is a relaxing way to explore the surrounding areas and enjoy the sights in the jungle.
The island homes some interesting wildlife such as the white Bellied Sea Eagle, Long Tailed Macaques and the reptile species such as Common Fence Lizard and Green Crested Lizard. With hills and relatively untouched jungle, completing a trail that gives a sense of satisfaction.
Click here to read more on Trails of Pulau Jerejak.Friendly Tips:
1. Dressed in light clothing
2. Put on comfortable walking shoes
3. Wear a hat in non-bright color
4. Keep to dedicated walking paths
5. Listen to the guide's instructions
Source and pictures from Jerejak Resort & Spa, Penang.
Tel: +6 04-658 7111 / Fax: +6 04-659 7700
Email: reservation@jerejakresort.com