Juara Turtle Project

Juara Turtle Project is a community-based sea turtle conservation and education centre located at Kampung Juara on the east coast of Tioman Island in Rompin District, Pahang, Malaysia. Established to protect nesting green and hawksbill turtles, it operates a hatchery, monitors and relocates vulnerable nests, and runs education programmes for visitors and volunteers. It is notable for its conservation work, beachfront location on Juara Beach, and role in community engagement and sustainable tourism on Tioman Island.

Visitors can expect a small beachfront conservation centre with an information area, educational displays about sea turtle biology and threats, and a protected hatchery where eggs are incubated. The setting is on Juara Beach, a sandy bay backed by forest. Staff provide guided talks and explain nest monitoring, hatchery operations and release procedures. During nesting season visitors may learn about night patrols and, if timing aligns, observe hatchling releases under staff supervision. The experience is educational and low-impact, focused on observation and learning.

Established in 2006 as a community-led initiative at Kampung Juara to address declining sea turtle nesting numbers due to poaching and predation. The project created a hatchery and systematic nest monitoring and relocation programme, later expanding to include education, outreach and volunteer participation for long-term protection of turtles on Tioman Island.

Represents community-based marine conservation on Tioman Island, engaging local residents, volunteers and visitors in protecting natural heritage. It promotes awareness of sea turtle ecology, responsible tourism and sustainable coastal livelihoods linked to Juara village.