Cham Islands consist of a group of near-shore islands in Tan Hiep commune, Hoi An city, Quang Nam province, which are located about 15 km off the Cua Dai coast, with a total population of over 3,000 people. Among the islands, Cham island is the biggest one with a natural area of about 13 km2, surrounded by 08 small bow-shaped islands. This area has a long-established history and culture, with a particularly rich natural ecosystem under strict preservation which is very potential for tourist and marine economy development. Moreover, it is also an important outpost for national defence and security in the common defence posture of Quang Nam province and the central region. Besides, this land is also associated with the history of Hoi An ancient town – the famous commercial port and destination of the "ceramic, silk, aromatherapy road" on sea many centuries ago where many relics of Sa Huynh, Cham Pa, Dai Viet cultures are still preserved... with centuries old architectural works, such as: Hai Tang Pagoda (nearly 300 years old), Ancient Well, Ong Ngu Tomb, etc.

In terms of topographical tectonics, Cham Islands is an extension to the southeast of Bach Ma - Hai Van - Son Tra granite range, formed hundreds of millions of years ago. Its terrain is mainly hilly with very rich and diverse fauna and flora, and many rare woods. The islands are surrounded by fine, golden sand beaches, interspersed with large granite blocks, creating a unique landscape. The marine ecosystem in Cham Islands is highly appreciated by scientists and strictly protected. It is one of the seas with the most diverse and rich natural ecosystems in our country including about 135 coral species, 500 species of seaweed and seagrass, 202 species of fish, 04 species of lobster and 84 species of mollusk. In addition, this is also home to swiftlets, mostly found in To Vo cave and Kho cave. Their nests are of high nutrition, bringing a stable source of income for people on the Island. With rich and diverse flora and fauna and centuries-old historical relics, in October 2003, Cham Island Nature Reserve was established. In 2009, Cham Island was recognised by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. This is an important legal basis for the local Party committees, authorities and people to step up the preservation, protection and sustainable development of the unique historical values and natural ecosystems here.

Currently, Cham Islands are being invested in all aspects by Quang Nam province and Hoi An city to become a "highlight" for tourism development in the Central region and the whole country. Here, visitors can visit the "Culture, nature and people of Cham Islands - a treasure from the seabed" exhibition; dive to see colourful corals and fishes at Bai Bac, Hon Dai; cross the sea to visit Bai Huong fishing village; swim in Bai Ong or Bai Chong; do a variety of sports, such as: windsurfing, paragliding, kayaking, kite flying, rowing, ...and enjoy fresh seafood, such as abalone, squid, fish, lobster, etc.

Although difficulties and challenges remain, with the pride of a revolutionary locality, dynamism, creativity, aspiration for development, available potentials and advantages, and with appropriate guidelines, the Party Committee, authorities and people of Tan Hiep commune, Hoi An city are determined to make Cham Islands increasingly rich in economy, strong in defence and security, and beautiful in natural landscape, contributing to firmly protecting the country's sovereignty over sacred seas and  islands.

CAO VUONG