Sungai Peradin, Malaysia

Sungai Peradin is a rather unpopular area flanked by mangrove forests close to Pontion in the state of Johor in Malaysia. The village here is called Kampung Belokok and lies about 5 km off the main road. The village is a hidden treasure with a colourful past.

It is believed that the Sungai Peradin area was once a German community which worked the land and traded their agricultural produce using the river. There are remnants of building columns, rail tracks and concrete slabs that resemble a jetty, which are some of the evidences that support the existence of the German community in this area. The nearby German village of Kampung Jerman further supports the contention.

Kampung Belokok today is a destination famous for its fresh sea food, mangrove swamp and river cruises. Local as well as internation tourists from far flung areas come here to enjoy the beauty of the mangrove forest and its inhabitants. Popular inhabitants here are the herds of monkeys, said to be over 400 which can also be very amusing. You must watch them especially when they move in unison to cross the river or dive from tree branches.

There are two charcoal kilns here which visitors which help visitors to understand and learn how charcoal is made using the mangrove tree as a resource for wood. 'Attap' or thatched roof-making is another rare traditional craft that should not be missed.