Cahaya Bulan (Moon Light) Beach — Attraction in Negeri Sembilan

WITH SO MANY RESTRICTIONS, UNCLEAR RATES, ATTITUDE ISSUES, AND LACK OF ACCOUNTABILITY, IS PORT DICKSON ACTIVELY CHASING AWAY VISITORS AND TOURISTS⁉️❗️

As someone from Negeri Sembilan, I’ve always felt a sense of familiarity with Port Dickson. I don’t expect it to be like Marang or any coastal town along the east coast—Marang is simply too pretty by comparison. Port Dickson is lucky that people can still swim in it, and even luckier that it’s close enough to Kuala Lumpur to remain relevant. Historically, it was even part of Selangor. Let’s be honest—this is the Straits of Malacca. The water isn’t blue, and the beaches aren’t pristine. But what has increasingly become a concern is not just the murky water or the lack of consistent hygiene, but also the way this once-favourite destination is being handled.

Over the past few years, Port Dickson has been drowning in restrictions, enforcement issues, and public dissatisfaction. From paid parking with unclear rates to rude and aggressive enforcement officers, the atmosphere no longer feels welcoming. Many visitors, myself included, have witnessed or experienced enforcement that borders on bullying - something I’ve never encountered at other beaches in Malaysia.

There’s now a full ban on camping and picnic setups. If you’re new to PD, just buy the expensive chips and untasty food around the area just to be safe. I’m saying this as a local who deliberately avoids going to PD just to avoid unnecessary stress and tension. Personal tents and portable shades are not allowed. Even simple meals using portable stoves or BBQ sets are prohibited. You can sit on a mat and eat food you brought, but no open flames, bonfires, or cooking of any kind. Offenders may face fines of up to RM1,000.

Then there’s Pantai Cahaya Bulan - a spot that could have been scenic and calm, but now feels neglected. There’s another glaring issue - the broken pedestrian bridge at Pantai Cahaya Bulan. Built to offer visitors a scenic crossing and a picturesque viewpoint over the lagoon, the bridge was meant to enhance the beach experience and connect different parts of the coastline in a calm, safe way. It could have been a lovely photo spot or even a highlight for casual walkers and families. But since late 2024, the bridge has been closed due to severe deterioration of its wooden planks. It now sits abandoned, fenced off, and slowly falling apart. This isn’t just about safety - it’s about neglect. A feature that could’ve elevated the beach into something memorable is instead left to rot. I wonder how MPPD could simply let the bridge rot. Aren’t they even looking at this place - or are they vacationing in Maldives and forgot to come back?

Now I wonder, how is Negeri Sembilan earning from tourism to generate income and build facilities? And who exactly are the tourists they are looking for?

Pictures: Before the bridge was...

Chahaya Bulan (Moonlight) Beach is a stunning destination known for its incredible natural beauty. One of its highlights is the Pantai Cahaya Negeri Bridge, a charming wooden bridge that stretches over the sea, offering breathtaking views of the ocean's powerful waves on both sides.

A short walk across the bridge leads you to a small mangrove forest, perfect for a quick nature escape and exploration.

The beach itself is clean and inviting—great for a relaxing swim. Along the shore, there are plenty of spots to sit, unwind, and enjoy the mesmerizing view of the sea meeting the sky.

Best of all, it's conveniently located near Kuala Lumpur, making it an ideal spot for a spontaneous...

We wanted to have a short getaway at the seaside and was recommended Pantai Cahaya Bulan a.k.a. the Moon Light Beach in Port Dickson.

I have frequented PD countless times, and this was the first time I got to this spot! It's a perfect picnic spot with facilities (shower and toilet) nearby.

P.s. If you don't wish to take a dip in the waters, this would be a perfect setting to get lost in a book (or two!), whilst enjoying the sea breeze and the...