I visited Malaysia several times on business...
I visited Malaysia several times on business and I wanted to take my wife with me from the second occasion. Due to hectic business travel it is very difficult to bring my wife along, so we decided to go on our own vacation. My Malaysian colleagues recommended Tioman Island so we searched the internet for accomodation on Tioman. Shortly after that Japamala resort turned out to be THE CHOICE.
We reserved and paid it some 9 months in advance and made all other arrangements around it. As the time was coming we felt more and more excited.
Once arrived, wow! Cool! Great! No mobile coverage! No phone in the room! More staff than guests. Anything anytime anywhere. Perfect weather. Hi and low tide with loads of tropical fish. Waterfall trip fantastic! Jungle tour to Joara Beach wonderful. Great dinner in the pavilion. Very friendly and supportive staff. You need to figure out what you want to do, the staff will help you, but they will not steer you in any direction nor try to sell you anything. Very good selection of massages, we tried two of them. Worth it.
I cannot really think of anything negative related to Japamala. We felt great and wish to return as soon as we can. The only caveat is distance from Europe, hence price of the travel.
Unfortunately, inhabited parts of the island tend to be untidy which should be changed to keep tourists coming. Luckily, Japamala is a real gem.