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A guide to holidays in Malaysia
Citation preview
Malaysia 101 1
HOTELSCULTUREFOODSHOPSSIGHTSACTIVITIES
MALAYSIA101 THE VERY BEST OF
ASIA’S MOST EXCITING HOLIDAY DESTINATION
10
KANOO WORLD TRAVELLER
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Malaysia 101 3
Malaysia Truly Asia
Production in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media Publishing is strictly prohibited. HOT Media Publishing does not accept liability for omissions or errors in this publication.Produced by HOT Media Publishing FZ LLC
Kuala Lumpur
Langkawi
Managing Director: Victoria Hazell-Thatcher Publishing Director: John Thatcher Advertisement Director: Chris Capstick [email protected] Features Editor: Laura Binder
Art Editor: Jenni Dennis Designer: Matthew McBriar Production manager: Haneef AbdulSales Manager: Cat [email protected]
Malaysia is the most welcoming and exciting country in Asia. Its proud, friendly people love to socialise and celebrate a country that offers visitors incredible sights to behold – sleek skyscrapers tower over traditional on-stilt houses while natural wonders abound – and to-die-for dining experiences that are a match for anywhere on earth. It’s a country that every traveller simply must experience, so what are you waiting for?
About This Guide Our intrepid team of travel writers has scoured Malaysia for the 101 best things on offer to you, the would-be visitor. From the pick of top hotels to the best sights and incredibly good street food, our easy-to-reference chapters are packed with ideas to help you plan the perfect trip.
ContentsHotels – Stay in style at one of these magificent abodes. Shopping – From glitzy malls to crowded night markets; you can shop up a storm in Malaysia.Food – Your culinary adventure starts right here.Relaxation, Culture, Sights – The perfect itinerary for a holiday to remember. Activities and Adventure – How best to enjoy this country of thrilling contrasts.
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4 Malaysia 101
Welcome to MalaysiaHistoryAlthough its traditions and civilisation stretch back for millenia,
Malaysia is officially a young country. It was born in 1963 when the
Federation of Malaya came together to forge a new nation with Sa-
bah, Sarawak and Singapore (which later left the group). Malaysia is
divided into two parts – Malaysian Borneo and Peninsular Malaysia
– by the South China Sea.
Malaysia todayThe country has made astonishing economic progress since
independence and has become a major centre for tourism in Asia.
It’s no surprise – Malaysia has a huge amount to offer visitors,
including a vibrant culture, wonderful cuisine, superb natural
attractions and the region’s best shopping. Islam is the country’s
official religion, but a huge range of different ethnic and religious
groups live and work together harmoniously here.
Let us introduce you to the place where you’ll be spending the holiday of a lifetime…
You’ll find that English is spoken
almost everywhere, but here
are a few words of Malay, the
national language, to help you
to fit in...
Selamat pagi – good morningSelamat petang – good eveningSelamat jalan – goodbyeApa khabar – how are you?Terima Kasih – thank youSama sama – you are welcomeDi manakah…? – where is…?
Speak the language
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Malaysia 101 5
40,000The number of years for which the area of Malaysia has been
inhabited by humans.
4,675The length of Malaysia’s coastline
in kilometres.
4,095The height in metres of the
awe-inspiring Mount Kinabalu, the country’s highest point.
451.9 The height in metres of the
stunning Petronas Towers, which still hold the record for being the
world’s tallest twin buildings.
13.7The size in kilometres from one end of the enormous Penang
Bridge to the other.
The Malaysian currency is the
Ringgit, which comes from the
word ‘jagged’ in Malay – this
references the fact that the
original silver currency used in
the area had serrated edges.
There are 100 ‘Sens’ to each
Ringgit: below are the exchange
rates at time of press…
1 Saudi Riyal = 0.83 Ringgits1 UAE Dirham = 0.846 Ringgits1 Omani Riyal = 8.07 Ringgits1 Qatari Riyal = 0.85 Ringgits1 Bahraini Dinar = 8.24 Ringgits
Getting thereFlying to Malaysia is simple – there are direct flights from the
Gulf with Gulf Air, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Malaysia Airlines and
Etihad Airways to six different international airports across the
country with flight times as short as seven hours.
Getting aroundMalaysia has an excellent road network and many visitors choose
renting a car as the best way to get around. Public transport is
of a general high quality, and intercity ‘Express Buses’ link up the
regions. In the big cities like Kuala Lumpur you should make sure
to only take metered taxis as otherwise you may end up paying
over the odds.
When to visitThe country is blessed with hot, tropical weather, which runs
from a beautiful 21 to 32 degrees celsius. Monsoon season runs
between November and January, although this is also the time
when some of the very biggest festivals and sales happen, so it’s
still a popular time to visit. However, if it’s perfect beach weather
you crave, May to September is the time to pack your bags.
Money talk
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6 Malaysia 101
Malaysia’s hotel scene has come on in leaps and bounds in the last few years, both in the five star category and in its boutique offerings. The levels of service are among the best in the world, and the facilities can be truly outstanding: choose wisely and you’ll enjoy properties to rival anywhere in the world.
Hotels
Starting off in the capital, hotel sophisticates
will love the Berjaya Times Square Hotel.
This centrally-located property is connected
by monorail to key parts of the city, and has a
shopping mall directly attached to it. For a real
treat, book the Brooklyn Suite, with its floor-to-
ceiling views out over the city – at nighttime, with
the city lit up for miles around, it’s unbeatable.
The hotel has great facilities, including a
beautiful swimming pool, fitness centre and kids’
playground, and in the Berjaya Times Square mall
you’ll find wonderful rides at Cosmo’s World Theme
Park, a 48-lane bowling alley and nine screen
cinema alongside ten floors of shopping options.
It’s the perfect all-in-one city resort.
Those who know and love the Westin hotel chain
from elsewhere in the world won’t be disappointed
by the Westin Kuala Lumpur. It’s located in
Jalan Bukit Bintang, right in the heart of the best
shopping and restaurant action in the city, and has
all the Westin flourishes that travellers know and
love, including their signature, ludicrously-comfy
Heavenly Bed. If you’ve booked into one of their
smartest rooms you’ll get access to their first class
Executive Club Lounge, which gives you crow’s-eye
views of KL – the ideal place to pop for a pre-dinner
drink before checking out the Latino-style grills
at Qba, the super Chinese flavours at EEST or the
classic Tuscan dishes at Prego.
Another major favourite in the capital is the
Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. After a big
refurbishment last year this place is looking
exceptionally sharp and is a hub for local and
visiting businesspeople alike. Get yourself one of
the Horizon Club rooms on the top floor, which
come with personal concierges, free wifi and that
all-important late check-out time. It’s not just the
rooms that impress, though – the restaurant line-
up, including the much-vaunted Lafite, is second
to none.
The last – but by no means the least – in the big
quartet of mind-blowing hotels is the Ritz-Carlton
Kuala Lumpur. It’s one of those places where you
instantly feel at home – partly because of the
warmth and simple elegance of the décor, partly
because of the friendliness of the welcome. It’s also
home to one of the city’s best spas, the gorgeous
Spa Village, where you’ll spend hours relaxing with
pampering treatments – don’t miss the incredible
90-minute hot stone massage.
If you prefer to stay in your own apartment when
you visit a new city, you should consider booking in
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8 Malaysia 101
to the attractive Fraser Place Kuala Lumpur, where
you’ll find 21 floors of beautifully decked-out two
bed, one bed and studio serviced residences. Here
you’ll have your own living room, kitchen and – if
you so choose – home office, plus the pleasures of
an infinity sky pool to dip into at the end of the day.
Just outside of the capital but a world away from
its hustle and bustle lies the marvellous Sunway
Resort Hotel & Spa. It’s a huge resort with a range
of excellent accommodation – our top choice is
The Villas, which offer private infinity pools, large
balconies, complete privacy and butler service. The
air here is clean and refreshing and the only sounds
you’ll hear are the birds in the trees and the tinkling
of water features: a couple of days here and you’ll
feel as relaxed as can be.
One of the biggest treats in Malaysia is getting
up in the hills, where the air is fresh and the
country’s natural beauty is shown off to its best
effect. Your first port of call is the Berjaya Hills
Colmar Tropicale, a 45 minute drive north east
of Kuala Lumpur. The rustic French-style rooms
and suites are exquisite and the range of activities
on offer is superb. This is a great place for golf
aficionados, as it’s home to an 18-hole course
surrounded by mountains and cut through with
lakes and breathtaking landscaping. It also offers a
particularly good horse-riding programme – saddle
up and spend a morning or a whole day roaming
the Highlands, stopping off for a gourmet picnic
lunch along the way.
Another hilltop resort is the YTL Cameron
Highlands Resort, a tea plantation hotel in
Pahang, set 1.5 kilometres above sea level in rolling
countryside. The scent of strawberries and tea fill
the air, and, as with the Colmar Tropicale, there are
myriad activities on offer – there’s a superb golf
course to be played, a spa to be enjoyed (watch
out for the tea-based treatments), a series of jungle
trails to be ambled along, strawberry farms and
tea plantations to be sampled, night markets to be
shopped at and an Orang Asli village to be visited
(‘Orang Asli’ are Malaysia’s indigenous people and
have a fascinating culture).
Similarly high levels of tranquillity and enjoyment
are on offer on an island off the west coast of
‘The exquisite sunsets here, viewed from the privacy of your own luxury deck, are worth the journey alone’
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Malaysia 101 9
From far left: Shangri-la Tanjung; Westin Langkawi; Temple Tree; Shangri-La Rasa.
Peninsular Malaysia, at the Pangkor Laut Resort.
This is the island’s only resort – the rest of the
space is just beautiful, untamed nature, all talcum
powder beaches and verdant rainforest. There are
five types of suites on offer – Garden, Beach, Hill,
Spa and Sea (which are built on stilts in the water)
– as well as the Pavarotti suite, set up in the heart
of the rainforest and named for the opera legend
who adored the island. The exquisite sunsets here,
viewed from the privacy of your own luxury deck,
are worth the journey alone.
The other major island attraction off the coast
of Peninsular Malaysia is Langkawi, up in the far
north of the country, an unspoilt gem with a whole
procession of wonderful places in which to stay.
There’s the Four Seasons Langkawi, the Andaman
Langkawi and the brilliant Westin Langkawi
Resort & Spa, which has half a kilometre of private
beach and more watersports than you can fit into
a fortnight, alongside spa treatments, nature hikes
and beautiful rooms.
Another first rate resort is the Berjaya Langkawi,
which has a great spread of stilted villas, some
located on the Burau Bay of the Andaman Sea
and some in verdant rainforest. Whether you’re
cosied up in your villa, drinking a cold juice in the
sunken pool bar, enjoying a lazy lunch at the Beach
Restaurant or revelling in a dinner at the Pahn-Thai
restaurant, built out on top of the waters, you’ll
feel pampered, exhilarated and relaxed throughout
your visit.
If you’d rather try something of a boutique ilk
during your Langkawi trip, check out Temple Tree
at Bon Ton. It’s low on pretension and high on
quirkiness, with a series of gorgeous, individually-
themed ‘houses’, some over 100-years-old, which
range in style from ‘Chinese’ to ‘Black and White’
and from ‘Colonial’ to ‘Penang’. Each is individually
decorated, and there is a long, languid shared pool,
fringed with palm trees. While Bon Ton is not on
the beach, it is only five minutes’ drive from the
excellent Pantai Cenang beach.
Also up north, but on the mainland, is the
state of Penang, where there’s a further clutch of
world-beating properties. Part of the state is an
island, also known as Penang, where you’ll find the
19th-century, colonial-style Eastern and Oriental (a
favourite of Somerset Maugham, Rudyard Kipling
and Noel Coward) and the Shangri-la Rasa Sayang
Resort & Spa, home to the wonderful Chi spa, the
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10 Malaysia 101
Clockwise from far left: The Ritz-Carlton; Shangri-la Kuala Lumpar; Berjaya Hills Colmar Tropicale; Gayana Island Resort.
island’s largest. Then there’s the Berjaya Penang,
a lovely, modern property which gives you easy
access to the island’s delights, including beautiful
Batu Ferringhi, a series of beaches offering first
class windsurfing, waterskiing and sailing; the
attractive Penang Hill, whose peak is accessible by
a charming funicular train; and Penang Butterfly
Farm, a huge family favourite.
There are two final islands of note to factor in to
your trip – Tioman Island and Redang, both located
off the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. They are
home to two excellent hotels – the Berjaya Tioman
and the Berjaya Redang. The former is the place to
go for superb diving – with a visibility of 100 feet,
the waters here are filled with exotic sealife. While
you’re here don’t miss a trip to the Asah waterfall,
where seven rivers come together and swimming at
the bottom of the fall is awe-inspiringly idyllic.
But it’s not all about Peninsular Malaysia and
its islands, you know. Over on Malaysian Borneo
there are some seriously sweet spots too. At the
state of Sarawak you’ll find the Borneo Highlands
Resort, an eco-sensitive hideaway where you can
stay in a ‘jungle cabin’ or a ‘clubhouse room’ within
putting distance of its outstanding golf course. The
extraordinary thing about this place, though – apart
from the fact that it’s built right in the heart of a
rainforest – is its sheer exclusivity. Only 60 guests
are allowed to stay at the Borneo Highlands on any
given day, which means you’ll feel like the whole
palatial place is being run for you alone: magical.
The neighbouring state of Sabah has its own
share of delights, too. All but the stoniest of hearts
will be melted by the glories of the Shangri-la
Tanjung Aru Resort, which juts out into the South
China Sea on a beautiful little promontory. Located
a short way from the lovely town of Kota Kinabalu,
this place is an exercise in indulgence, from the
one-off Island villas to the gorgeous yoga pavilion.
The smart money, though, is on taking a Mountain
View room, which gives its lucky inhabitant a vista
of the majestic Mount Kinabalu.
Finally, for a pristine eco-resort experience, book
in to the Gayana Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu, off
the coast of Sabah. It’s dedicated to protecting
local marine life – during your visit you can help
them repair local coral reefs before relaxing with a
kayaking trip and a jungle trek or two.
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Malaysia 101 11
If you love your shopping you’ll adore Malaysia. This is a country which cherishes its international brands but still values its home-grown arts, crafts and produce very highly. Put your credit card on standby, clear plenty of room in your suitcase and get ready for some fun…
Shopping
Start your shopping quest off in Kuala Lumpur’s
much-feted Central Market. This is a highly fun
place to splash your cash, a 19th century building
that has been recognised as a national heritage site
and is home to products from all of the country’s
myriad ethnic groups. Major items to watch out for
include delicate batik, silver and gold silk ‘songket’
textiles and antiques. Don’t forget your camera
when you visit – you’ll find opportunities aplenty to
snap away as you soak up the atmosphere.
Another olde worlde spot in the capital is Masjid
India or ‘Little India’, located just by Petaling Street
and a stone’s throw from the city’s Chinatown,
where all the products come from the subcontinent.
It’s great for picking up top value clothing, bolts of
beautiful cloth and gold jewellery in every shape
and size under the sun. If you get peckish, pick up
a piping hot and spicy snack from one of the raft of
hawker stalls: delicious.
For a rather more modern shopping trip, you
should head down to Kuala Lumpur’s ‘Golden
Triangle’, a slice of city whose edges comprise
Imbi, Jalans Bukit Bintang and Sultan Ismail. This is
where you’ll find major malls – particular highlights
include Starhill Gallery, Lot 10, Pavilion KL and
Suria KLCC.
Starhill is the sort of place where you could
happily lose yourself for a day. The mall’s biggest
attractions include a parade of first-class art
galleries and a cavalcade of high-end fashion
(the likes of Givenchy, Kenzo, Carrera y Carrera
and jewellery must-haves Van Cleef and Arples)
alongside watch legends Hublot, Tag Heuer and
Audemars Piguet. When you’re feeling ready
to drop and your bags are weighing you down,
pop to the in-house Pamper Zone, which has an
astonishing 93 treatment rooms, for a a well-earned
massage or facial.
Lot 10, meanwhile, pitches itself as the ‘groovy
godson’ to Starhill’s ‘big daddy of designer cool’.
There are hundreds of fabulous stores here,
including Etincelle, Lollapalooza and Love, G. If
you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by the choice on
offer, hook up with a ‘shopping concierge’ who
can help guide you to the very best stores for your
retail style and advise you on the best purchases.
Pavilion KL has almost 500 smart stores,
including Salvatore Ferragamo, DKNY and Ted
Baker, and puts on regular high profile shows for
visitors in the Centre Court area. If you visit, swing
by the concierge’s desk on the third floor with your
passport in hand and pick up your free Tourist
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14 Malaysia 101
Clockwise from far left: Suria KLCC; Masjid India; Florist in Gaya Street Sunday Market.
Reward Card, which will get you money off
purchases, plus lots of value-added treats.
Finally, Suria KLCC has a nice blend of high
end stores like Jimmy Choo, Marc Jacobs and
TOD’s and highstreet names like Topshop, Zara
and Giordano. It’s also a great place to buy top
value electronics and telecoms as well as Malaysian
leather goods. When it comes to taking a break,
you’ll love the amazing 50 acre-large green space
at the development’s centre, which is scattered
with water features, fountains and thousands of
plants and trees, alongside a great kids’ playground
– perfect if you’re on holiday en famille.
Just outside of Kuala Lumpur is Petaling Jaya,
where you’ll find Sunway Pyramid, a fun, themed
mall which pays tribute to ancient Egypt with its
pyramids, sphinxes and elaborate statues. There
are four main shopping zones: Asian Avenue,
which has the latest products from across the
region; Oasis boulevard, an outdoor shopping area;
Marrakesh, a Moroccan-style bazaar which does a
fabulous line in silver jewellery; and Fashion Central
with its hundreds of clothing brands.
While the capital and its immediate surroundings
naturally have the lion’s share of the most
happening shopping experiences, there’s plenty
going on in the rest of the country too. One major
thing to look out for are the traditional Pasar
Malam or ‘night markets’, which take place in
villages, towns and cities across Malaysia. These al
fresco shopping spots allow you to make the most
of the pleasantly warm evenings, browsing on a
street that’s been closed to traffic, among scores of
open air stores selling virtually everything, with an
emphasis on fruits, t-shirts, shoes and electronics.
The particularly nice thing about the Pasar
Malam is that they’re not laid on for the benefit of
tourists – this is where Malaysians go to do their
shopping, which means it’s always pleasantly
informal, full of locals, and has the best value
on offer anywhere (be warned: bargaining is
practically compulsory). The markets always have
a section dedicated to freshly-cooked street food –
grab yourself a cane sugar juice and prowl the stalls
to find your perfect post-shopping snack.
Keep your eyes peeled, too, for Metrojaya
outlets across the country. This imaginative series
of department stores has some great brands,
including East India Company, Cape Cod, Laura
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Malaysia 101 15
Ashley, Zona and Reject Shop. You’ll find them in
KL, Selangor, Johore Bahru, Penang and Sabah.
Out in Melaka, a coastal city to the south of Kuala
Lumpur, you’ll find the brilliant Jonker Street. Set in
the city’s Chinatown district, this is acknowledged
as one of the very best places in the country to
buy antiques, including statues, furniture, brass
items, coins, porcelain and more. Many of the stores
here will offer delivery to your home country for
larger pieces – so you can go ahead and be as
extravagant as you like. The very best times to visit
are on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, when
you’ll find the greatest number of salesmen laying
out their wares.
Meanwhile in Kota Kinabalu, the capital of
Sabah, the biggest shopping offering is the Gaya
Street Sunday Market. This has been a commercial
hotspot for a century – in colonial times it was
known as Bond Street – and it carries on the proud
tradition every Sunday, when it is pedestrianised
for the morning (it starts around dawn) and the
market sets in. Shoppers wander around under the
shade of trees and browse the wares of florists,
grocers, cobblers, bakers, antiques merchants,
fashion designers and artists. It’s a wonderfully
evocative and lively place to spend a few hours.
When you plan your trip to Malaysia, you should
bear in mind that the Mega Sale Carnival takes
place every year (usually during the summer), and
brings colossal bargains and discounts to every
store and mall in the land. It’s a shopping festival
par excellence, but it’s not just about cutting prices
– throughout the carnival there will be thousands of
special events, concerts, entertainment and plenty
of marvellous things for kids to do throughout the
length and breadth of the country.
And while we’re on the subject of insider tips, if
you’re looking to spend your money as wisely as
possible, bear in mind that Langkawi offers duty-
free shopping: an extra inducement to visit the
picture-perfect island, as if you needed one…
‘Al fresco shopping spots allow you to make the most of the pleasantly warm evenings, browsing on a street that’s been closed to traffic...’
Clockwise from below: Jonker Street; Pasar Malam; Sunway Pyramid.
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16 Malaysia 101
If you’ve just flown in to the capital, the first item
on your foodie agenda is to get stuck into some
traditional dishes and start to get a sense of what’s
on offer. Make a beeline for Bijan, a candle-lit
restaurant in Jalan Ceylon which mixes the finest
traditional and modern recipes, and prepare to take
a masterclass in the best the country has to offer.
If you’ve flown in to Penang on your first night
rather than the capital, however, you don’t need
to select a particular restaurant – wherever you
wander the street food on offer is the best in the
country. Ask the stall-owner to recommend their
finest titbits and go right ahead and indulge.
Whether you’re waking up in KL, Penang
or anywhere else in the country, swerve your
hotel’s continental option and go for some hearty
Malaysian fare instead, the classic choice being
a portion of nasi lemak. It’s one of the de facto
national dishes, a steamed rice-based creation
which is served laced with sweet coconut milk and
lashings of lemongrass, ginger and pandan leaves.
Alongside the rice you’ll be served roast peanuts,
dried anchovies, egg, pickled vegetables and spicy
sambal sauce. To look like a true Malaysian, ask for
a portion of beef rendang stew to go alongside it.
You may have heard of the infamous durian
fruit before – and believe us, it’s just as strange as
you’ve been told. It’s an extraordinary mix of utterly
repulsive – its odour has led to it being banned
on public transport, and puts in mind thoughts of
the snozzcumbers in Roald Dahl’s BFG – and the
delicious. In fact when it’s properly prepared, it’s
a smooth, subtle delight whose flesh tastes rather
like almondy custard. Grab yourself a mid-morning
pastry baked with durian (or, if you’re not feeling
brave enough, some sweet rambutan) and wash
it down with a mug of teh tarik. This is a Malaysian
drink of Indian or Chinese origin, depending on who
you talk to. It literally means ‘pulled tea’ and is a
mix of strong black tea and ultra-sweet condensed
milk, which is poured back and forth between a pair
of tumblers to give it an airy, frothy consistency.
When it comes to lunch time, go local with a
serving of asam pedas – a beef or fish dish cooked
with chilli, garlic, mint and tamarind juice for a
sour twist. The smell alone is enough to send
true gourmets into ecstasy. Alternatively, try a
banana leaf rice lunch, comprising fresh rice with
spicy vegetarian dishes, served on a banana leaf.
If this doesn’t fill you up, seek out some Sarawak
laksa – a beautiful noodle soup, filled with prawns,
coriander, slivers of omelette, chicken and hot
sauce: guaranteed to send shivers of delight
running down your back.
There’s literally nowhere more thrilling for gastronauts with a sense of culinary adventure than Malaysia. The dozens of different food cultures which meet and mingle in this thrilling nation mean you’re never far from a life-changing dining experience. Add another notch to your belt now…
Food
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Malaysia 101 17
Later on, an afternoon snack can come courtesy
of the Chinese strand of Malaysian food culture
– pull up a chair at a café and order a helping
of yau char kway. These deep-fried crullers,
which remind us of slightly salted doughnuts, are
dreadful for your health but wonderful for your
soul and are understandably one of the nation’s
very favourite naughty nibbles. When it comes to
accompaniments, you can’t go far wrong with a pot
of masala tea, with a perky, spicy kick.
If you’re in Kuala Lumpur, an inspiring afternoon
trip for foodies is one to Schokolart in Solaris Mont
Kiara, a chocolate-obsessed spot which boasts
a lovely view of the Petronas Towers and every
cocoa-laced product you can imagine, including an
extraordinary chocolate chicken dish.
If you’re feeling peckish again by early evening
and you want something to get your tastebuds
going, slide up to a bar and ask for some mieng
kam. Originally a Thai dish, this has been adopted
wholeheartedly in Malaysia: it’s a make-it-yourself
mix of chilli, shrimps, ginger, peanuts, lime and
sweet and sour sauce all twisted up in a fresh green
leaf. For an extra treat, get a few grilled chicken
satay ayam kebabs too, served with coconut and
peanut sauce.
At dinner time, seek out an example of one of
Malaysia’s most fascinating food cultures – Baba
Nyonya cuisine. It mixes Malay and Chinese flavours
in traditional recipes that date back hundreds of
years. The food takes hours upon hours to prepare
and has steeped-in flavour that gives off incredible
aromas: don’t miss the baba nyonya curries, which
are particularly marvellous.
As you can see, it’s possible to eat well in
Malaysia every day of the year, but if you’re
particularly interested in the gourmet side of your
trip, you might like to time it to coincide with the
annual Malaysia International Gourmet Festival.
This event, which usually takes place in November,
sees chefs from around the world come together
with local culinary masters to lay on special dinners
for hungry guests, as well as tastings and cook-offs:
an unmissable event.
Clockwise from far left: Streetfood in Chinatown; Nasi Lemak; Durian fruit; Sarawak lasa.
Malaysia 101_food.indd 17 10/28/2010 10:34:11 AM
18 Malaysia 101
Relaxation, culture and sights
One of the best and most relaxing things about
Malaysia is the weather – there’s plenty of sun all
year round, and the very best place to make the
most of it is on one of the country’s beaches. Some
of its finest are to be found in Sarawak in Malaysian
Borneo, which has hundreds of kilometres of
coastline: start off in Damai, a pristine spot with
plenty of lovely resorts and a great starting point
for a trip out to Satang Besar Island, which is much
loved for its wildlife. Other beaches of note include
Bandung, Siar and Penyok plus, up in the top
northern tip of Sarawak, handsome Miri and the
Similajau National Park: roll up your suncream and
sunnies in your beach towel and head on down.
A similarly chilled-out activity is available at
the Putrajaya Botanical Gardens. Situated 25
kilometres outside of Kuala Lumpur, it is the
country’s largest botanical garden and is a superb
place to spend a morning gently wandering from
floral display to floral display and learning about
Malaysia’s natural heritage. If you enjoy the delights
of Putrajaya, you’ll absolutely love Kuala Gula, way
up north in Peninsular Malaysia. These extensive
wetlands are known to birdwatching communities
as one of the very best twitching spots in the world
– arrange a visit to the sanctuary, rent a pair of
binoculars and you can see Cuckoo-Shrikes, Milky
Storks, Pittas, Adjutants and hundreds more.
Also up north in Peninsular Malaysia, in the state
of Kelantan, is another highly relaxing activity: a
river cruise from Kuala Krai to Dabong. Along the
way you’ll pass through rainforest, tiny waterside
villages and more wildlife than you can shake a
stick at, including the likes of hornbills, elephants,
otters, macaques and majestic kingfishers.
If you’re the sort of holidaymaker who likes
to relax with a nine iron in their hand, you’ll be
delighted to hear that Malaysia is home to dozens
of world-class golf courses. Three of the best are
the Cameron Highlands Golf Course, the Royal
Selangor Golf Club and the club at the Berjaya
Tioman Resort.
The Cameron Highlands Golf Course, up in
Peninsular Malaysia’s cool Highlands region 5,000
feet above sea level, is kept in immaculate shape all
year round. This par 71 course offers a pleasing mix
of terrains, with plentiful eye candy in the form of
green mountains as far as the eye can see.
The Royal Selangor Golf Club, meanwhile, has
been one of the country’s top social hubs since
the late 19th century (although the courses weren’t
laid until the 1920s), and was a massive favourite
You’ve enjoyed the exotic food, the fab shopping and the adrenaline-pumping activities Malaysia has to offer: now it’s time to catch your breath and relax, to indulge in some gentle cultural pursuits and soak up the essence of the country with a visit to some of its most impressive sights…
Malaysia 101_relaxation, culture, sights.indd 18 10/28/2010 10:42:30 AM
Malaysia 101 19
among the colonial elite. It has one 9 hole course
and two 18 hole courses, one of which plays home
to the Malaysian Open. The backdrop here is of
Kuala Lumpur, with the twin Petronas Towers
clearly visible from many of the holes. Last, but by
no means least, is The Berjaya Tioman Resort Golf
Course – an 18-holer which hugs the coastline of
the South China Sea. It’s flanked on the other side
by gorgeous rainforest, and is recognised by the
Malaysia’s golfing fraternity as one of the very best
places for a round.
If soaking up the sun, strolling through beautiful
gardens or wetlands, taking a lazy cruise or
playing a leisurely game of golf haven’t left you
fully relaxed, never fear: Malaysia is known for
its outstanding spas and you’re never far from a
tranquility-inducing treatment. Three favourites
of ours are the Spa Village Pangkor Laut, the
Mandara Spa in Kuala Lumpur and the spa at the
Four Seasons Langkawi.
You can behold wonderful culture and beautiful
sights everywhere you go in Malaysia, but there
are a few key things you simply must include on
your itinerary. The first of these is Sarawak Cultural
Village, located just outside of Kuching and nestled
in the shadows of Mount Santubong. The village
gives a fascinating insight into the different ethnic
groups who make Sarawak’s culture so rich, with
regular performances of traditional song and dance
and great displays of arts and crafts.
Another grand dose of culture awaits in the
historic state of Melaka in Peninsular Malaysia
and particularly in its capital, Melaka Town, which
is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can
stroll through the old town and uncover its most
intriguing elements. Don’t leave without seeing
Jonker Street’s lovely shops and carved façades;
the Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum; Memorial
Hall; St. John’s Fort, and Hang Tuah’s Well.
If you’d like to get your culture fix from a festival
then you’ll be spoilt for choice. Three of the biggest
events are the Penang World Music Festival, the
KL Festival and the Samrah Festival. The Penang
fest is small and beautiful, with an array of bands
from across the world performing in the attractive
setting of the Botanic Gardens. The KL Festival
takes place over the course of a month and brings
Clockwise from left: Cameron Highlands Golf Course; Sarawak beach; Kelantan boats.
Malaysia 101_relaxation, culture, sights.indd 19 10/28/2010 10:42:36 AM
20 Malaysia 101
together literary, musical and artistic events from
across the capital. And the Samrah Festival is a
show of Arabic culture with a major musical focus.
While it’s not a festival per se, each year the
celebrations for Chinese New Year evoke the
feel of such an event, with the country’s huge
Chinese community laying on lavish parties with
lashings of fireworks: a great time to be in one of
myriad Chinatowns which you’ll find dotted across
Malaysia’s big cities.
When it comes to great museums, there are
a number of major venues worth a look in Kuala
Lumpur, the best of which are the National History
Museum and the Islamic Arts Museum. The former
traces Malaysia’s story over the past 40 millennia,
with some superb exhibits including ancient coins,
prehistoric weapons, 9th century statues and more
recent memorabilia, such as military pieces from
the Japanese occupation. The Islamic Arts Museum,
meanwhile, covers a huge amount of ground with
textiles, jewellery, architecture, ceramics and more
showcased in a light, airy space that is also home
to intriguing temporary exhibitions from around
the world.
Malaysia is crammed with extraordinary sights,
many of which you’ll come across by chance as,
for example, you turn a corner in a crowded street,
come to the crest of a hilly road and gaze over
a beautiful valley, or when you catch a stunning
sunset on a deserted beach. But, to guarantee an
amazing modern view, one that encapsulates the
dynamism and thrust of this country, there are
two great options. The first is the vista from the
Petronas Skybridge, which looks out over the
skyline of that most ambitious and driven of cities,
Kuala Lumpur. The second is the scene you’ll see
from the stands at Sepang International Circuit
during a Formula 1 event: as the cars screech round
and the crowds roar you can’t help but feel the
real and justified pride so many Malaysians feel for
their astonishing and exciting country. But for all
that is new in political terms, this is also an ancient
place and for that reason the Batu Caves makes a
marvellous final sight. Over 400 million years old,
this network of caverns outside of Kuala Lumpur is
a special place for many Malaysians, making it one
of the most interesting and moving places to visit in
this ever-intriguing country.
Clockwise from left: Batu Caves; Petronas Towers; An Iban Warrior demonstrating how to usee a traditional dart at the Sarawak Cultural Village.
‘Over 400 million years old, the Batu Caves outside of Kuala Lumpur is a special place for many Malaysians’
Malaysia 101_relaxation, culture, sights.indd 20 10/28/2010 5:14:17 PM
Malaysia 101 21
Activities and AdventureMalaysia is a dream destination for adventurous types and families who want to get out and about to enjoy the great outdoors. There are hundreds of wonderous expeditions to choose from: here’s our pick of the country...
One of the biggest names for families visiting
Malaysia is Genting Highlands, an hour’s drive
northeast of Kuala Lumpur. This place is the king of
resorts and can be accessed via the lofty Genting
Skyway cable car. It’s home to three separate
theme parks, including a water park, an outdoor
theme park and the first world indoor theme park,
all of which are stacked to the rafters with brilliant
rides and attractions. You could spend a good few
days working your way around this place, so be
certain not to miss out on key rides, like the Rolling
Thunder Mine Train, the Sungai Rejang Flume Ride
and the fabulously fun Bumper Boats. The resort is
also home to five performance areas, which host
fantastic concerts – check in advance to see what’s
on during your visit…
Meanwhile, just a quarter of an hour’s drive
outside of Kuala Lumpur is Desa Water Park,
a mini city devoted to aquatic pleasures. Bring
your swimming costume and spend a day being
knocked about by the Shock Wave, zipping along
on the Super Tube, chilling out in the Bubble Pool
and screaming your head off as you descend
Action River and the legendary Thunderbolt, Asia’s
longest Master Blaster. Up in Sungai Petani in the
north there’s another great – although somewhat
smaller – waterpark, The Carnivall, which has a
series of excellent rubber ring rides.
Further south in Melaka, you’ll find the A’Famosa
resort. As well as having top golf facilities and a
super-fun waterpark, A’Famosa is famed for its
animal attractions, notably the Animal World
Safari. Here you can take a trip around 150
beautiful acres and see zebras, tigers, camels,
giraffes, elephants and lions, before popping over
to Monkey Island to meet the primates. You can
also let your little ones pet camels, rabbits and
ponies. In Teluk Sengat in the south east, there’s an
incredible Crocodile Farm, where over a thousand
toothsome beauties are on show. Take a tour and
watch the crocs being fed fish and whole chickens,
before picking up a baby snapper – if you dare.
Nearby, another wonderworld for animal fans is
the brilliant Ostrich Farm in Sungai Rengit, where
you can view baby ostriches being tended by their
parents. Meanwhile, over in Sabah in Malaysian
Borneo, there are jaw-dropping sights on offer
at the Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary. Located in
Sandakan out on the east coast, this place allows
you to get up close with the majestic orange
beasts, which are looked after as part of Malaysia’s
eco-protection programme.
If smaller – but equally cute – creatures are more
your thing, head to the Penang Butterfly Farm in
Malaysia 101_activities.indd 21 10/28/2010 10:50:40 AM
22 Malaysia 101
the far north of the country. Set in the Teluk Bahang
Hills, you’ll be surrounded by scores of exotic
butterflies in every hue under the sun, including
the famous Borneo-born Rajah Brooke, a black and
green beauty.
If you want to experience a more active
attraction, set your sights on Kinabalu Park, where
you can take on (possibly) the biggest challenge
of your holiday: climbing up to Low’s Peak, the
most accessible part of the mountain. But, you
don’t need to be a seasoned mountaineer or don
anything more than a stout pair of walking boots to
reach its peak and, when you do, the views will be
well worth the effort.
Another adventure which requires a certain
amount of energy but pays enormous dividends
is a diving trip to Pulau Sipadan, off the coast of
Sabah – once described by Jacques Cousteau as an
‘untouched piece of art’. Formed by the explosion
of an undersea volcano millenia ago, this island
offers challenging but highly rewarding dives and is
rated among the very finest dive spots in the world.
Flipper your way downwards and swim amongst
lush coral gardens, white tip sharks and shoals of
jackfish and barracudas: amazing.
A trip to Layang Layang will provide a similarly
memorable experience. The destination is a brief
flight north from Malaysian Borneo and is known
for its hammerhead and whale sharks, manta rays
and triggerfish. The archipelago of Redang and
the idyllic islands of Perhentian, both located off
the north-eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, are
another couple of big draws for PADI-toting dive
aficionados, thanks to their clear-as-glass waters
and first-class diving schools.
If snorkelling takes your fancy, head to Tunku
Abdul Rahman Marina Park. Set in Sabah, just off
the coast of Kota Kinabalu, it’s made up of a clutch
of five islands, all of which are home to outstanding
coral and shallow surrounding seas. Arrange your
trip through a centre in Kota and then head out
with a guide who will show you the very best spots.
Look out for mantis shrimps, Hawksbill turtles,
blue-spotted rays and the remarkable scorpion fish.
While you’re in Kota, swing by the offices of
Borneo Nature Tours, who can arrange an array of
Clockwise from far left: Gentling; Desa Water Park; Low’s Peak.
Malaysia 101_activities.indd 22 10/28/2010 5:17:06 PM
Malaysia 101 23
excursions and stays in Sabah – expect everything
from white-water rafting and nature treks to
birdwatching. Ask about their brilliant 4 Wheel
Drive tours too, which will take you on a bouncing
expedition along gravel tracks and through rivers
as you drink in the incredible surrounds and visit
local schools. What’s more, a percentage of the
price you pay for the pleasure will go towards
community development programmes.
Another classic aquatic adventure is a cruise in
Langkawi. Here you’ll find 99 gorgeous little islands
to explore – which you can zip between in a motor
boat with one of the many tour companies who
ply the area, stopping off to visit mangroves and
spy eagles in their natural habitat. Alternatively,
go deep sea fishing and visit the islands’ lovely
natural caves.
To end with a real taste of the islands, look out
for the onboard barbecues offered by some local
tour operators – there are few nicer ways to admire
a sunset than when cruising along in Langkawi
with a plate of freshly-grilled seafood perched on
your lap. Before you leave, you simply must have a
Langkawi massage, too. It’s feted as one of Asia’s
best and is a superb way to remove any remaining
shreds of tension…
Finally, if you’re looking to achieve something
really impressive while you’re on holiday, why not
plan your visit to coincide with the annual Borneo
International Marathon? You can enter in advance
and then pit your fitness against the course, which
winds its way through Kota Kinabalu in Sabah in
Malaysian Borneo, with breathtaking views on all
sides: the perfect end to an amazing trip. If that
sounds like too much hard work, but you’re still
in the market for a one-off experience to wrap up
your time in Malaysia, make your way to Penang’s
Batu Feringhi beach area, where they offer some of
the world’s best parasailing: Soak up the passing
views down long stretches of white sand as the
wind rushes through your hair and the earth falls
away beneath you. Unforgettable.
Clockwise from left: Redang; A resident of Crocodile Farm; Cenang beach, Langkawi.
‘There are few nicer ways to admire a sunset than when cruising along in Langkawi with a plate of freshly-grilled seafood perched on your lap’
Malaysia 101_activities.indd 23 10/28/2010 10:50:48 AM
24 Malaysia 101
The prize Win a deluxe three-night stay for two, including breakfast daily with unlimited
bubbly, plus dinner at the Gulai House restaurant. To enter, simply email your
answer to the following question to [email protected]
Perched off the west coast of Malaysia, on the north western tip of of the tropical island of Langkawi, The
award-winning Datai Langkawi (www.ghmhotels.com) is an idyllic oasis that makes the perfect retreat
for those yearning to leave city life far behind. The lush hideaway immerses itself in a landscape of dense
rainforest, soaring mountains and gushing waterfalls. Inside, the stunning resort is decked in Asian-inspired
décor that blends effortlessly with its tropical vistas, while offering all the mod cons luxury-lovers crave.
Plus, each room comes with its own private verdanda, where guests can soak up its sprawling panoramas.
Set foot outside the suite to dine at one of four themed restaurants, including Gulai House, which serves
up Malaysian and Indian cuisine in an open-air setting. As if that wasn’t enough, a stroll through rainforest
footpaths leads out to pools and a private beach club, where there’s watersports in abundance. But, for
sheer relaxation, The Spa at The Datai is the place to enjoy for the ultimate in Eastern pampering.
Win a three-night stay at The Datai Langkawi
Terms & Conditions:Prize is valid between January
16 and July 31, 2011. Excludes
Februrary 2–8 and April 21–25
inclusive. Rooms are subject
to availability and advance
booking is required. The prize
is non-transferable and no
cash alternative is available.
Any unused benefits are not
redeemable for future stays.
Dinner for two excludes
alcoholic beverages.
24 Malaysia 101
Q. Which types of cuisine does Gulai House serve? a) Malaysian and Indianb) African and Indianc) Chinese
Malaysia 101_competition.indd 24 10/28/2010 10:59:33 AM
Untitled-6 1 10/27/2010 2:42:10 PM
Terms & ConditionsFares do not include service fees. Prices are correct as of publication date and are subject to change due to fluctuation in surcharge rate. Fares are subject to seat availability and confirmation. All fares and conditions are subject to change with or without notice. Other terms and conditions apply.1060
1-W
BOOK NOW
Visit your nearest travel agent or Malaysia Airlines ticket office.
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Experience 5-Star MH.This is Malaysian Hospitality.
FLY TO KUALA LUMPUR
RIYADH 1,473 6,764
DAMMAM 1,702 6,348
JEDDAH 1,822 5,962
DUBAI 2,125 8,605
ECONOMY CLASSRETURN (ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES)
BUSINESS CLASSRETURN (ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES)FROM
SAR
SAR
SAR
AED
SAR
SAR
SAR
AED
Terms & ConditionsFares do not include service fees. Prices are correct as of publication date and are subject to change due to fluctuation in surcharge rate. Fares are subject to seat availability and confirmation. All fares and conditions are subject to change with or without notice. Other terms and conditions apply.1060
1-W
BOOK NOW
Visit your nearest travel agent or Malaysia Airlines ticket office.
Great Deals toGreat HolidayDestinations.
Experience 5-Star MH.This is Malaysian Hospitality.
FLY TO KUALA LUMPUR
RIYADH 1,473 6,764
DAMMAM 1,702 6,348
JEDDAH 1,822 5,962
DUBAI 2,125 8,605
ECONOMY CLASSRETURN (ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES)
BUSINESS CLASSRETURN (ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES)FROM
SAR
SAR
SAR
AED
SAR
SAR
SAR
AED
Untitled-5 1 10/27/2010 2:40:25 PM