Song Tu Tay – a peaceful island

Song Tu Tay Island is the northernmost island of the Truong Sa (Spratly) Archipelago, in Song Tu Tay Island Commune, Truong Sa Island District, Khanh Hoa Province. Looking from afar, the island looks like a miniature forest in the middle of the ocean. The green trees combined with the blue sea creates a peaceful space.
Women and children on Song Tu Tay Island.
Women and children on Song Tu Tay Island.

The oval-shaped island measures about 700m long and 400m wide and is 4-6m above sea level. The ecological environment on the island is favourable for raising cows, pigs and chickens and growing many types of vegetables in all four seasons.

Soldiers and people on Song Tu Tay Island receive Tet gifts sent from the mainland.

Soldiers and people on Song Tu Tay Island receive Tet gifts sent from the mainland.

Song Tu Tay Island has witnessed many changes over the past 43 years of liberation. A hydro-meteorological station is located on the island to provide weather data for the mainland. The island’s dock is capable of accommodating hundreds of large fishing ships and is also a safe harbour for fishermen.

Song Tu Tay Island now has a fishery logistics service station which provides repair services, oil, and fresh water for fishing ships. A wind and solar energy system has been in operation since 2010, contributing to enhancing the lives of the locals and soldiers on the island.

Soldiers and people on the island make ‘banh chung’ (square sticky rice cake) to welcome Tet.

Soldiers and people on the island make ‘banh chung’ (square sticky rice cake) to welcome Tet.

Several construction works were built to serve the people on the island: a communal house, a memorial site dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao, Song Tu Tay Temple, a primary school, and others.

Song Tu Tay Temple is a spiritual destination where islanders pray for peace and happiness.

Song Tu Tay Temple is a spiritual destination where islanders pray for peace and happiness.

During their break time, soldiers are singing songs of their praise and love for the country.

During their break time, soldiers are singing songs of their praise and love for the country.

Many entertainment activities are held on the occasion. This photo depicts a stick pushing competition.

Many entertainment activities are held on the occasion. This photo depicts a stick pushing competition.

People participate in a sack race competition.

People participate in a sack race competition.

Soldiers and the family of Nguyen Thi My Hao prepare a fruit tray to welcome Tet.

Soldiers and the family of Nguyen Thi My Hao prepare a fruit tray to welcome Tet.

People on the island happily receive kumquat trees sent from Van Giang District, Hung Yen Province.

People on the island happily receive kumquat trees sent from Van Giang District, Hung Yen Province.

Nguyen Thi Chau Uc and her son visit the local temple to pray for a peaceful and prosperous new year.

Nguyen Thi Chau Uc and her son visit the local temple to pray for a peaceful and prosperous new year.

NDO/Photo: NINH CO - DONG HA