A beach vista of Tropical paradise

The water is crystal clear as far down as 100 feet providing a spectacular view of prolific coral gardens fringing the coast.

Malaysia, which relies on Tioman's fragile beauty for eco-tourism, is now finding ways to replenish and preserve the coral sites.

Leading the charge is celebrated underwater photographer Daniel D'Orville, 42. Under his company Call Strategic Creative Sdn Bhd, D'Orville created Aquascape, a reef rejuvenation method similar to how landscape architects re-sculpt the land they work on.

Installing Aquascape involves several stages of research, deployment, as well as careful monitoring of results, reports the Star.

First, a survey is carried out at the nominated sites to test the suitability of the water conditions and quality of light (corals rely on the sun's warmth to thrive).

Then pre-constructed units (made from cement-friendly material) are positioned on the sea bed of the site. Coral fragments are transplanted on to the newly-installed unit. This encourages the coral to thrive on the unit and attract marine life. The unit is monitored and maintained to ensure it develops into a thriving reef.

Tioman, off Pahang, has become the first test case for Aquascape. The transplanting operation coincided with World Environment Day on June 5.

Coral life off Tioman Island in Malaysia

Tioman Island is mainly populated by friendly villagers, by people who know how to enjoy life in an unhurried manner. When you're amongst them, you'll feel as if your burdens are lifted off and the worries of your everyday life seem a thousand miles away. Tioman made its first movie debut in the movie "South Pacific". In the movie, it was known as "Bali Hai". This beautiful island is considered one of the world's ten most beautiful islands. There are steep slopes with lush green vegetation and there are also colorful burst of orchids and other tropical flowers on the island.

Each year, this popular tourist spot draws thousands of people to its awesome beauty and sandy white beaches. Sun lovers will worship the land and will be able to enjoy hours just languishing on the pearly beach whilst those who love collecting seashells will have a whale of a time gathering a myriad varieties of these lovely sea creatures found along its palm-fringed beaches. Several popular beaches include the ones around the villages of Tekek, Genting and Salang. For the romanticists, do take a stroll on one of these beaches during sunset to experience that enchanting moment; it'll take your breath away!

The best time for diving is between the months of May and October. The water then is known to be at its prime. It is advisable to bring along an underwater camera where you'll surely get some of the best shots of your lifetime. Many are contented to be swimming amongst the colorful water garden, drinking in the sights. Some of the popular diving spots are along the shallow reefs at Salang beach and the neighboring Tulai and Renggis stretches.

For more information call Tourism Malaysia 1-888-689-6872