What Is It

Sipadan Island is a globally renowned marine park in Sabah. To protect its rich ecosystem, the government enforces a strict daily limit on divers, requiring a valid Sipadan Diving Permit issued by Sabah Parks.

Daily Permit Limits & Rules

  • Daily Quota: Only 250 permits are issued per day across all licensed dive resorts.
  • Diver Level: Divers must hold at least an Advanced Open Water (AOW) certification due to deep waters and strong currents.

    • Required Fees

  • Sipadan Marine Park Conservation Fee:
    • - Malaysian Diver: RM250/day. - Foreign Diver: RM500/day.
  • Note: These fees are for the permit only and exclude dive equipment rental and boat transport costs.

    • Step-by-Step Procedure

    1. Book Dive Resort: Book accommodation and dive packages with a licensed resort in Mabul, Kapalai, or Semporna that holds a Sabah Parks permit quota allocation. 2. Submit Credentials: Send your passport/MyKad copy and Advanced Open Water certification card to the dive operator. 3. Permit Allocation: The resort allocates and registers your name for the permit slot on your designated diving day. 4. Diving Day: Keep your physical ID/Passport ready. Show it at the Sipadan security check post before entering the island.

    Cost & Processing Time

  • Cost: Permit conservation fee is RM250 (Malaysians) / RM500 (Foreigners) per day.
  • Processing Time: Must book 2 to 3 months in advance to guarantee a permit slot.

    • Where to Apply

  • Licensed Dive Operators: Authorized dive resorts in Semporna/Mabul holding permit allocations from Sabah Parks.