Junk Island

Off the southern coast of Singapore, a mysterious island sits like a forgotten secret. Pulau Jong, also known as Junk Island, rises from the sea, shrouded in an air of intrigue. Pulau Jong is a small, conical island, a mere 6,000 square meters. It’s located about six kilometers from Singapore’s southern coast. The island remains uninhabited, undeveloped, and largely inaccessible, adding to its mystique. One version of how Pulau Jong got its peculiar name involves a Chinese junk under attack by Malay pirates. As the pirates closed in, the junk’s captain let out a terrifying yell. This yell was so powerful, it startled a sea spirit who, in a fit of pique, transformed the entire junk into the island we see today. Pulau Jong is ringed by a protective reef and steep cliffs, making landing a difficult feat. While kayaks can navigate the surrounding waters, the island’s interior remains largely unexplored. One daring individual, with permission from the Singaporean government, swam ashore in 2014. He documented his findings, revealing an island seemingly devoid of any mammals. Insects, spiders, and the occasional bird appeared to be the sole inhabitants. A later birdwatching group spotted large-billed crows in the trees, adding another layer to the island’s ecological puzzle. Pulau Jong continues to beckon with its untouched wilderness. It remains a captivating reminder of the mysteries hidden just beyond the bustling shores of Singapore.