The name was changed to Duyong, a Malay word that means 'mermaid', after the residents of the island were allegedly reported to see two mermaids landing on its shore.

Duyong Old Fort is an old Malay palace featuring a unique architecture influenced by Western and Egyptian Islamic elements.

Due to its geographical shape and the locational significance in terms of religious scholarship, Duyong Island has been referred to as the tongue of Terengganu.

[6] Duyong Island is also known for its traditional boatmaking and boat repairing industry, which has existed since before independence.

[7] In its heyday, the boatmakers of Duyong Island received orders from a number of countries, although this industry is now declining.