Malaysia is known for the hospitality of its multi-racial, multi-religious and multi-cultural people. Malaysia’s diversity well reflects the uniqueness of its local cuisine, arts, culture and traditions.
Malaysia is rich in natural wonders and is also a famous eco-tourism destination. Home to thousands of species of flora and fauna and some of the oldest tropical rainforests, Malaysia is recognized as one of the 12 most biodiverse countries in the world. The country’s lush rainforests and rugged terrain make it one of the best places for eco-adventures.
Famous ecotourism destinations in Malaysia include Mulu National Park, Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary, Endao Rompin National Park, Pahang National Park and the Abang Turtle Hatchery on Lantau Island. A wide range of eco-tourism activities are also available, such as jungle trekking, rafting, bird watching and river cruises.
From pristine beaches and breathtaking islands to colorful culture and well-preserved heritage treasures, Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a bustling metropolis with unique landmarks like the Kuala Lumpur Tower and the Petronas Twin Towers (the world’s tallest twin towers). tower). Not only the Kuala Lumpur Forest Ecological Park – a natural tropical rainforest located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, but the administrative capital of Putrajaya also has impressive buildings and bridges.
Other destinations in Malaysia such as Malacca, Penang, Langkawi, Sabah and Sarawak each have their own charms. The historic cities of Melaka and George Town have UNESCO World Heritage Sites, not to mention Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site, Kinabalu Park.
Discover new pursuits in Langkawi, Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO Global Geopark, a tropical island paradise with incredible scenery. A ride on Langkawi’s cable car – the steepest cable car in the world – will take you 708 meters above sea level. Located on the west coast of the island, the Panorama Langkawi SkyCab is 2.2 kilometers long and connects the base station at the foot of Machinchang Mountain to the summit station at the top of the mountain.
Beyond that, you can take a hair-raising walk on the 125-meter Sky Bridge, the longest free-span curved bridge in the world. Or, explore the island’s newest ecotourism destination, Langkawi’s Kubang Badak BioGeoTrail, which won the 2021 Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Gold Award in the Heritage category.
In Kuching, Sarawak, feast your eyes on delicious food, experience and understand what makes Kuching a UNESCO Creative Gastronomy Capital. Sarawak also hosts several world-class events throughout the year, such as the Rainforest World Music Festival, Borneo Cultural Festival, Borneo Jazz Festival and Borneo International Kite Festival. Others include extreme sports such as Spartan Race, Kuching Marathon, Sarawak Adventure Challenge and International Dragon Boat Race.
Malaysia’s stunning islands and beaches offer the ideal sun, sea and sand getaway, with some world-class dive sites off the coast of Terengganu and Sabah boasting breathtaking underwater vistas. Sipadan is well known as one of the top diving destinations in the world.
Additionally, Malaysia’s latest attractions include the newly opened Genting Skyworld, an outdoor theme park in the highlands, and Kuala Lumpur’s majestic Merdeka 118, currently the world’s second tallest building. Johor Bahru’s Desaru Coast, on the other hand, was selected by Time Magazine as one of the 100 Greatest Places in the World in 2021, with world-class and ultra-luxury hotels, including two world-class golf courses and the biggest adventure in the region water park.
Tourists choose Malaysia as a holiday destination for many reasons, from beautiful natural wonders, vibrant culture, friendly people, reputation as a safe and family-friendly destination, to value-for-money experiences. Additionally, Malaysia has top-notch healthcare facilities with state-of-the-art technology and medical expertise, and international accreditation. With English widely spoken, Malaysia offers the perfect combination of affordable and relaxing holidays.
Here are ten things to do in Malaysia:
1. Experience the charm of idyllic islands and golden beaches in Malaysia
Bordered by Thailand to the north and Singapore to the south, Malaysia also straddles northern Borneo, forming the states of Sabah and Sarawak. With 4,800 kilometers of coastline, Malaysia has some of the most beautiful islands and beaches. Surrounded by the Straits of Malacca, Andaman Sea, South China Sea, Sulu Sea and Celebes Sea, the country has many natural treasures nestled in peaceful bays and coves. Beneath the aquamarine waters lies a fascinating world of coral and marine life waiting to be discovered. The beautiful islands of Langkawi, Perhentian, Mabul, Sipadan, Redang, Tioman and Durang in Bosnia and Herzegovina are breathtaking scuba diving and snorkeling locations. Other beautiful beaches include Cherating, Teluk Chempedak and Port Dickson.
2. Explore local food in Malaysia
Dining out in Malaysia is a true culinary adventure. With so many options, from spicy Malay food to seemingly endless Chinese food,
Exotic Indian cuisine, as well as Nyonya Peranakan fusion cuisine. Popular Malaysian dishes include satay, nasi lemak, rendang, roti canai, murtabak, teh tarik, laksa, chicken rice and fried noodles. Western food is also available, and there are international fast food chains in many towns, not to mention the thousands of roadside stalls and food bazaars. Seafood is a major attraction in Kuala Perlis, Sabah and Labuan, with fresh fish, prawns, crabs, lobsters, squid and shellfish in abundance. In addition to this, you can also experience local cuisine at four restaurants in Penang and Kuala Lumpur, which were awarded a Michelin star in the recent Michelin Guide Kuala Lumpur and Penang 2023 for their high-quality cooking.
3. Admire the beautiful scenery of Penang Island
Penang is a vibrant state whose capital, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a cultural melting pot of strong Eastern and Western influences.
Penang is also known for its array of street food. Whether it’s assam laksa, nasi lemak, char kway teow, cendol or pasembor, why not try eating like a local? In 2017, CNN Travel ranked Penang as one of the top foodie destinations in the world. Street food, or hawker food, is a big draw in the city. Penang hawker food reflects the multicultural makeup of the town, which has a mix of Chinese, Malay and Indian ancestry.
4. Visit the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur
The Petronas Twin Towers are a must-see when you are in Kuala Lumpur. At 451.9 meters high, the 88-story twin towers are the tallest twin skyscrapers in the world.
Experience unparalleled views of Kuala Lumpur and immerse yourself in the tower’s 86th-floor observation deck. Standing above the clouds, you can get an up-close view of the tower’s pyramidal structure while delving into state-of-the-art exhibits and digital displays on the building’s history.
5. Explore Sarawak Mulu National Park
Gunung Mulu National Park is home to Deer Cave and Clearwater Cave, and also has one of the longest chains of caves in the world. The Sarawak Chamber is the largest natural underground chamber, which can accommodate a total of 40 Boeing 747 aircraft! Beyond that, its karst formations in a mountainous equatorial rainforest environment are the most studied region of tropical karst in the world. The limestone pinnacles of Mulu National Park are also worth seeing. Alternatively, visitors can enjoy the Bat Observatory and the 480-meter Rainforest Canopy Bridge.
6. Visit Malacca
Strategically located along the Strait of Malacca, Malacca was once the center of a trading empire. As the birthplace of national historical and cultural heritage, its long and glorious historical relics are well preserved and can still be seen at a glance today. In addition to the historic crowds, there are scenic kampung settlements and a rich cultural scene. Take a cruise down the Malacca River and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the river. Accompanied by informative commentary, the Melaka River Cruise lets you see parts of historic Melaka, including old warehouses, old shophouses, original bridges, and the traditional Malay Kampung Morten.
7. Explore Royal Yet, Silver
Nestled within the protected Belum Valley, the unspoilt natural beauty of Royal Belum is one of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world. Its pristine rainforest has a complex ecosystem and is one of the few places in Malaysia where you can find Rafflesia. It is also an important habitat for many endangered species such as the seladang (Malaysian tapir or black cattle), Asian elephant, Malayan tiger and Sumatran rhino. Royal Belum is also the only forest in Malaysia where all ten species of Malaysian hornbills can be found.
8. Visit the Batu Caves in Selangor
Batu Caves is a unique and fascinating limestone cave temple. It consists of three large caves, with ornate Hindu shrines inside the main cave. The destination draws large international crowds during the annual Thaipusam festival, a festival that pays tribute to Lord Muruga. The main attraction is the statue of the Hindu deity at the entrance, and there are 272 steep steps that lead you up to the top of the cave, culminating in a breathtaking view of the downtown skyline.
9. Learn about Malaysian culture and heritage
Malaysia is rich in diverse cultures and well-preserved heritage. The country’s population is a mix of different ethnic backgrounds, bringing together a fascinating mix of cuisine, crafts, traditions and architecture. Malaysia’s multicultural heritage is reflected in its costumes, social customs, handicrafts, food, music and other forms of entertainment. Exquisite craftsmanship is one of Malaysia’s cultural heritage. High quality and rich in detail, these works of art are highly sought after and make great collector’s items. Beautiful hand-woven pine leather and hand-painted batik textiles remain popular souvenirs, while the country’s woodwork and jewelry are considered some of the finest in the world. Pottery, accessories made of organic materials, metal crafts and traditional clothing such as the Nyonya kebaya are also popular. For example, Kelantanese are gifted artisans and there are many cottage industries across the state producing silverware, textiles, kites and brasswork. Or, experience the unique local culture first-hand by staying with a homestay family in a Malay kampung or tribal longhouse under the Malaysian Homestay Programme. Tourists can learn more about their way of life and customs, or take part in local events such as traditional games and cultural performances. Some homestays are tucked away in the hinterland, while others are located near major towns. For example, Banghuris, Sungai Pelek and Sungai Haji Dorani Homestay are just an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur.
10. Don’t skip shopping
Malaysia is considered heaven when it comes to shopping. Whether your preference is high-end or economy, you’re more likely to find what you’re looking for here. Sprawling malls and trendy malls can be found in major cities, especially Kuala Lumpur. Areas like Bukit Bintang, KLCC and Bangsar are famous shopping districts offering everything from designer brands to computer peripherals. These malls offer retail therapy floors with dining and entertainment options ranging from bowling alleys to movie theaters.
In addition, Tioman Island, Langkawi Island, Pangkor Island, Labuan Island, Thailand-Malaysia border and airports all provide duty-free shopping services. Those looking for traditional handicrafts and ethnic souvenirs can find them at the Handicraft Center. Local day and night markets like Chinatown and Pasar Seni (Central Market) in Kuala Lumpur and Pasar Payang in Terengganu are also good places to find bargains.
HT
For more information, visit www.malaysia.travel or Tourism Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, TwitterYouTube, and TikTok.
