Malaysia is an incredibly varied destination; a complex melting pot of cultures, cuisines, landscapes and experiences, offering everything from picture-postcard beaches to jungle-clad mountains, UNESCO Heritage Listed sites to ultra-modern cityscapes. Tourism Malaysia has it all neatly summed up: Truly Asia.
If you’re considering a visit to this intriguing land of contrasts but perhaps need a little further motivation, or even if you’re just looking for some extra inspiration, Tourism Malaysia has helpfully condensed all the reasons to visit into these six key points.
More Heat, More Passion
Malaysia’s geographical location and historical journey have brought together a diverse mix of ethnicities, all of whom make up a multicultural society bursting with colours and flavours. Malay, Indian, Chinese and many other ethnic groups bubble away nicely together, and you’ll discover that the Malaysian people’s reputation for being warm and welcoming reflects this, as does the local cuisine. Try an Indian satay, a Chinese-style chilli crab or Malay speciality Nasi lemak.
More Welcomes, More Memories
With a total population of some 31 million spread across a land area slightly larger than Victoria and Tasmania combined, there are plenty of friendly faces to welcome you. Whether it’s haggling good-naturedly for a bargain in Kuala Lumpur’s Petaling Street market or coming face-to-face with an orangutan at a sanctuary in Sabah, you’re sure to leave Malaysia with fond memories of its inhabitants.
More Islands, More Escapes
There’s no getting away from it: when it comes to island idylls, you are completely spoilt for choice in Malaysia. Some of the better known, more accessible options such as Langkawi and Kotu Kinabalu will deliver on their promise of sparkling waters, white sand and warm breezes, but with literally hundreds of islands and thousands of kilometres of coastline, it’s easy to find a spot that’s practically all yours. Be sure to check with your personal travel manager for advice on the best time to visit your chosen hideout.
More Oohs, More Aahs
Kuala Lumpur’s famous Petronas Towers were once known as the world’s tallest building, but now have to be content with their title as the world’s tallest twin towers. Despite being surpassed by newer, taller skyscrapers, you’ll still have your breath taken away from your viewpoint on the Skybridge, some 170 metres above the ground. If you prefer to keep your feet closer to terra firma, there are plenty of options to thrill and delight at ground level. A visit to Legoland near the southern tip of the Malaysian peninsula is a must for Lego enthusiasts big and small, or you may prefer to simply enjoy the beautiful colonial architecture of UNESCO World Heritage listing George Town in Penang.
More Balance, More Harmony
If you’re looking for a place to recharge your batteries, reset your inner clock or find some inner tranquillity, Malaysia can deliver all of this. The vast Batu Caves, including the towering Temple Cave, are set into a limestone hill just north of Kuala Lumpur, and have become one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside of India. If you prefer to seek serenity in a less-crowded spot, try snorkelling over a coral reef in the waters of the South China Sea or escaping from the tropical heat at a butterfly park or teahouse in the Cameron Highlands.
More Mysteries, More Discoveries
Malaysia is a destination that offers something for everyone: shop-til-you-drop retail therapy, mouth-watering cuisine, breathtaking natural scenery and fascinating locals.
Whether you’re looking to lose yourself in Penang’s foodie heaven or find yourself atop Mount Kinabalu, talk to your local personal travel manager who will have you discover plenty of reasons to return again and again.