The Shorebird Festival 2025 is set to take place on 29 & 30 November 2025, at the coastal site of Teluk Air Tawar–Kuala Muda in Penang, Malaysia.
This two-day event invites bird-watchers, nature-lovers, photography enthusiasts and families to immerse themselves in wetlands, birds in flight, and mangrove ecosystems. The festival raises awareness of shorebird conservation, showcases photo-opportunities and nurtures community eco-tourism.
What the Shorebird Festival 2025 is about
This event is organised by the Shorebirds Peninsular Malaysia Project and invites bird-watchers, nature lovers, photographers and families to immerse themselves in the world of shorebirds and coastal biodiversity. The goals:
-
To raise awareness of the ecological role of shorebirds in coastal ecosystems.
-
To promote community-based environmental learning and interactive nature activities.
-
To strengthen collaboration among schools, local communities, and conservation agencies.
What’s on the schedule for the Shorebird Festival 2025
Here are some of the key activities you can expect:
-
A Shorebird Photo Race — outdoor photography competition capturing migratory and resident shorebirds in their natural mudflat and mangrove habitats.
-
A dedicated Photography Workshop (in collaboration with Canon) for nature-photography enthusiasts, aiming to sharpen their skills.
- A special Sungai Tembus Photography Contest to showcase the scenic beauty of the area.
-
The “Ecologist Junior” programme — hands-on learning sessions tailored to school-aged participants.
-
A forum focused on “Permata Bahar Eko-Pelancongan Berasaskan Komuniti” (Community-Based Eco-Tourism) in Teluk Air Tawar–Kuala Muda.
To join the contest or photo race, please visit the Shorebirds Festival page, where the entry forms are available.
Why you should attend
-
It’s a rare opportunity to explore coastal ecosystems around Penang, particularly the mudflats and tidal flats of Teluk Air Tawar, which serve as stopover sites for migratory shorebirds.
-
If you’re into photography, this is tailor-made for you: scenic settings, migratory species, and specially organised competitions/workshops.
-
For families and students, the interactive programmes make for educational, fun, and meaningful outings.
-
For your business- or brand-oriented interests (e.g., for your wellness/photography brand), it’s also a networking opportunity with conservation agencies, nature-tourism operators, and photography communities.
Practical details
-
Dates: 29 & 30, November 2025.
-
Venue: Unit Nelayan Sungai Tembus, Penaga (near Teluk Air Tawar – Kuala Muda, Penang)
-
Contact / Enquiries: Tel: 019-431 3671 or email shorebirds.pm@gmail.com
- Website: Shorebirds Malaysia
-
Participation: Some activities, such as photo races or workshops, may require pre-registration; be sure to check the official site for registration details.
-
What to bring: Comfortable outdoor gear, binoculars or telephoto lens (if doing bird photography), sun-protection (hat, sunscreen), water & snacks. If you’re coming with students or as a group, we recommend arriving early.
-
Travel tip: Since the venue is somewhat removed from major urban centres, plan your transportation (car/taxi) and consider arriving early to avoid traffic and ensure good lighting for early-morning bird activity.
Conclusion
The Shorebird Festival 2025 in Penang promises to be more than just a weekend event. It is a celebration of nature, migration, and the shared commitment to protecting Malaysia’s coastal heritage.
Suppose you are a passionate bird photographer, a nature lover, or simply curious about eco tourism in Penang. In that case, this festival offers unforgettable encounters with thousands of migratory shorebirds and the people dedicated to conserving their habitats.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Teluk Air Tawar Kuala Muda, it is the perfect opportunity to learn, capture, and connect. Mark your calendar for 29 and 30 November 2025, and be part of a growing movement that unites conservation, community, and creativity along Penang’s northern shores.