Malaysia is known for its hospitality of multi-racial, multi-faith and multi-cultural people. The diversity of Malaysia is well reflected in the uniqueness of its local cuisine, art, culture and traditions.
Blessed with an abundance of natural wonders, Malaysia is also a well-known ecotourism destination. Home to thousands of species of flora and fauna and some of the oldest rainforests, Malaysia has been recognized as one of the world’s 12 mega biodiversity hotspots. The country’s lush rainforests and rugged terrain make it one of the best places for an eco-adventure.
Well-known ecotourism destinations in Malaysia include Mulu National Park, Sepilok Orang-Utan Sanctuary, Endau-Rompin National Park, Pahang National Park and Rantau Abang Turtle Hatchery. There is also a wide range of eco-tourism available, such as jungle trekking, rafting, bird watching and river cruises.
Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is a bustling metropolis with unique landmarks, the KL Tower and the Petronas Twin Towers (the world’s tallest twin towers). KL Forest Eco Park – a natural rainforest – is not only in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, but the administrative capital of Putrajaya also offers impressive architecture and bridges.
Other destinations in Malaysia such as Melaka, Penang, Langkawi, Sabah and Sarawak each have their own charm. The historic cities of Melaka and Georgetown are rich in UNESCO World Heritage sites, not to mention Kinabalu Park, Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site.
Discover new activities in Langkawi, Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO Global Geopark, a tropical island paradise with incredible scenery. Jumping on the Langkawi Cable Car – the world’s steepest cable car – brings you an elevated experience 708 meters above sea level. Located on the west coast of the island, this SkyCab ride with Panorama Langkawi covers a total distance of 2.2 kilometers, connecting the base station at the foot of the Machinchang Range to the summit station at the top.
In addition to this, you can take a spine-chilling walk to the 125-meter Sky Bridge, the world’s longest free-span and curved bridge. Alternatively, explore the Kubang Badak BioGeoTrail in Langkawi, the island’s newest ecotourism destination, which was awarded the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Gold Awards 2021 in the Heritage category.
In Kuching, Sarawak, you can experience and understand what makes Kuching a UNESCO City of Creative Gastronomy. Sarawak also hosts several world-class events throughout the year, such as the Rainforest World Music Festival, the Borneo Cultural Festival, the Borneo Jazz Festival and the Borneo International Kite Festival. Others include extreme sports such as Spartan Race, Kuching Marathon, Sarawak Adventure Challenge and International Dragonboat Race.
Malaysia’s stunning islands and beaches offer ideal sun, sea and sand holidays, with some of the world-class dive sites located off the coast of Terengganu and Sabah offering stunning underwater scenery. The island of Sipadan is known as one of the best diving destinations in the world.
In addition, Malaysia’s newest attractions include the recently opened Genting SkyWorld, an open-air theme park in the highlands, and the magnificent Merdeka 118 Tower in Kuala Lumpur, currently the second tallest building in the world. On the other hand, Desaru Coast in Johor Bahru, selected by TIME magazine as one of the 100 Greatest Places in the World 2021, offers world-class and ultra-luxurious hotels, including two world-class golf courses and the region’s largest adventure water park.
There are many reasons for travelers to choose Malaysia as a holiday destination, from its beautiful natural wonders, vibrant culture, friendly people and reputation as a safe and family-friendly destination to its value for money experiences. In addition, Malaysia has excellent healthcare facilities with the latest technology and medical expertise and international accreditation. English is widely spoken and Malaysia offers a winning combination of affordable and relaxing holidays.
Here are ten things to do in Malaysia:
1. Experience the magic of Malaysia’s idyllic islands and golden beaches
Bordering Thailand to the north and Singapore to the south, Malaysia also extends over the northern level of Borneo, forming the states of Sabah and Sarawak. With 4,800 kilometers of coastline, Malaysia boasts some of the most beautiful islands and beaches. Surrounded by the Straits of Malacca, the Andaman Sea, the South China Sea, the Sulu Sea and the Celebes Sea, the country has a number of natural treasures resting in tranquil bays and coves. Beneath the aquamarine waters is a fascinating world of corals and marine life waiting to be discovered. Beautiful islands like Langkawi, Perhentian, Mabul, Sipadan, Redang, Tioman and Bohey Dulang are some of the breathtaking places for scuba diving and snorkeling. Other beautiful beaches include Cherating, Teluk Chempedak and Port Dickson.
2. Explore local food in Malaysia
Eating out in Malaysia is a true gastronomic adventure. The selection is so vast, from spicy Malay food to endless Chinese dishes,
exotic Indian dishes as well as Nyonya Peranakan fusion food. Popular Malaysian dishes include satay, nasi lemak, rendang, roti canai, murtabak, teh tarik, laksa, chicken rice and fried noodles. Western cuisine is also available, and many cities are home to international fast food chains, not to mention thousands of roadside stalls and food bazaars. Seafood is a big attraction in Kuala Perlis, Sabah and Labuan, with plenty of fresh fish, prawns, crabs, lobsters, squid and shellfish. In addition, you can experience local cuisine at four restaurants in Penang and Kuala Lumpur that have been awarded one MICHELIN star for high quality cooking in the recently published MICHELIN Guide Kuala Lumpur and Penang 2023.
3. Enjoy the beauty of Penang Island
Penang is a vibrant state with its capital, George Town, which has the rare distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a melting pot of cultures with strong Eastern and Western influences.
Penang is also famous for its street food. Whether it’s Assam laksa, nasi kandar, char kuey teow, cendol or pasembor, why not try eating like a local? In 2017, CNN Travel listed Penang as one of the world’s most popular dining destinations. Street food or Hawker food is a big attraction of the city. Penang’s hawker food reflects the multicultural makeup of the city, with a mix of Chinese, Malay and Indian ancestry.
4. Visit Kuala Lumpur Petronas Twin Towers
When in Kuala Lumpur, the Petronas Twin Towers is a must-see. The 88-story twin towers are 451.9 meters tall, boasting the tallest twin skyscrapers in the world.
You can experience unparalleled views of Kuala Lumpur and immerse yourself in the tower’s 86th floor observation deck. Stand above the clouds for a close-up view of the towers’ pyramidal structure and immerse yourself in state-of-the-art exhibits and digital displays of the building’s history.
5. Explore Mulu National Park in Sarawak
Mulu National Park, where Deer Cave and Clearwater Cave are located, is also one of the world’s longest cave chains. The Sarawak Chamber is the largest natural underground chamber that can accommodate a total of 40 Boeing 747 aircraft! In addition, its karst formations in mountainous equatorial rainforests are the most studied area of tropical karst in the world. The limestone peaks of Mulu National Park are also worth seeing. Alternatively, tourists can enjoy the bat observatory and the 480m altitude in the rainforest canopy.
6. Visit Melaka
Strategically located along the Straits of Malacca, Melaka was once the center of a trading empire. The birthplace of the nation’s historical and cultural heritage, the remnants of its long and illustrious past are well preserved and still visible. Beyond the historic crowds are scenic kampong settlements and a rich cultural landscape. Take a cruise on the Melaka River and enjoy the beautiful views along the river. The Melaka River Cruise provides an informative commentary and allows you to see parts of historic Melaka, including old warehouses, ancient trading houses, original bridges and Kampung Morten, a traditional Malay kampong.
7. Explore Royal Belum in Perak
Nestled within the protected Belum Valley, the pristine natural beauty of Royal Belum is one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Its rainforest has a complex ecosystem and is one of the few places in Malaysia where Rafflesia can be found. It is also an essential habitat for several endangered species such as seladang (Malaysian tapir or dark-haired bull), Asian elephant, Malayan tigers and Sumatran rhinoceros. Royal Belum is also the only forest in Malaysia where all ten species of Malaysian hornbills can be found.
8. Visit Batu Caves, Selangor
Batu Caves is a unique and fascinating limestone cave temple. It consists of three large caves with ornate Hindu shrines in the main cave. This destination attracts a huge international crowd during the annual festival of Thaipusam, which honors Lord Muruga. The main attraction is the statue of a Hindu deity at the entrance, and the steep 272 steps lead to the top of the caves, so that you can finally admire the magnificent skyline of the city center.
9. Explore Malaysian culture and heritage
Malaysia has a rich tapestry of different cultures and a well-preserved heritage. The country’s population is a mix of different ethnic backgrounds, bringing together a mesmerizing mix of cuisine, crafts, traditions and architecture. Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage is reflected in its costumes, social practices, crafts, food, music and other forms of entertainment. Fine craftsmanship is one of Malaysia’s cultural heritages. These high quality and richly detailed artworks are highly sought after and make great collectibles. Beautiful hand-woven songkets and hand-painted batik textiles are still popular souvenirs, while the country’s woodwork and jewelry are considered some of the finest in the world. Ceramics, ornaments made from organic materials, metal crafts and traditional costumes such as the Nyonya kebaya are also in high demand. For example, Kelantanese are talented artisans with many cottage industries around the state producing silverware, textiles, kites and brassware. Alternatively, you can experience the unique local culture firsthand by staying with a host family in a Malay kampong or tribal longhouse as part of the Malaysian Homestay Program. Visitors can learn more about their lifestyles and customs or participate in local activities such as traditional games and cultural performances. Some homestays are located inland, while others are located near major cities. For example, Banghuris, Sungai Pelek and Sungai Haji Dorani Homestay are only an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur.
10. Don’t skip shopping
Malaysia is considered a shopping paradise. Whether your choice is high-end or budget, you’re more likely to find what your heart desires here. Large cities, especially Kuala Lumpur, have extensive shopping malls and lifestyle centers. Areas such as Bukit Bintang, KLCC and Bangsar are well-known shopping areas that offer everything from designer stickers to computer peripherals. These malls offer therapy floors of retail, dining and entertainment options from bowling alleys to movie theaters.
In addition, tax-free shopping is available on the islands of Tioman, Langkawi, Pangkor, Labuan, the Thai-Malaysian border and airports. Those looking for traditional handicrafts and ethnic souvenirs can find them in handicraft centers. Local day and night markets such as Chinatown and Pasar Seni (central market) in Kuala Lumpur and Pasar Payang in Terengganu are also great places to find great bargains.
HT
More information can be found at www.malaysia.travel or Tourism Malaysia social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTubeand TikTok.
Source: The Nordic Page