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Malaysia: For The Middle East Travellers
Malaysia has laid out the red carpet for travellers from the Middle East...
By Tofiq Shabbir in Dubai
More than any other spot in the country, Kuala Lumpur, or 'KL' as it is commonly known, is the focal point of new Malaysia. While the city's past is still present in the evocative British colonial buildings of the Dataran Merdeka and the midnight lamps of the Petaling Street nightmarket, that past is everywhere met with insistent reminders of KL's present and future.
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| Kuala Lumpur: Something for everyone |
The city's bustling streets, its shining, modern office towers, and its cosmopolitan air, project an unbounded spirit of progress and symbolise Malaysia's unhesitating leap into the future. To some, this spirit seems to have been gained at the loss of ancient cultural traditions, but in many ways KL marks the continuation rather than the loss of Malaysia's rich past. Like Malacca five hundred years before, KL's commercial centre is a grand meeting place for merchants and travellers from all over the world.
In the same way, the city brings together Malaysia's past and present, its many constituent cultures, and even its remarkable natural treasures, allowing first-time visitors an invaluable opportunity to see Malaysia as a whole before setting off to explore its other parts. In the botanical and bird parks of the Lake Gardens one is treated to a first glimpse of the unsurpassed beauty and variety of Malaysia's plants and animals. In the vibrant Central Market, music, crafts, and cultural practices from Kelantan to Sarawak can be explored and experienced. And in the National Museum, the dizzying multiplicity of Malaysia's cultural history comes into focus. As the entry point for most visitors and the melting point of the country's many attractions, Kuala Lumpur is a grand gateway to a fascinating destination.
A good place to begin any visit to Kuala Lumpur is the one-stop Information Centre, which provides a general picture of what the city and Malaysia have to offer. Audio-visual equipment provides background information on each state in the country. You can book a tour, arrange to go on a trishaw ride in the city, change your money, and book air or bus tickets to various destinations in Malaysia. International calls, facsimile and telex services are also offered.
National Zoo and Aquarium
Thirteen kilometres north-east of Kuala Lumpur is the National Zoo. It contains hundreds of different species of animals, birds, and reptiles. The aquarium has an extensive collection of marine and freshwater species. Both the Zoo and Aquarium are open daily from 9am to 6pm. Admission: RM5 (Adult), RM2 (Child).
Batu Caves
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| Batu Caves: A natural wonder |
Only 13 kms from KL's central business district and just outside the city limits, these famous caverns are easily accessible.The main Temple Cave features ornate Hindu shrines and has a ceiling which looms over 100 metres above the floor. To reach the main temple, one has to climb a steep flight of 272 steps, a feat performed by as many as 100,000 devotees during the annual Thaipusam festival.
Central Market
Spend a morning wandering through what was once a busy 'wet market'! The many shops housed in this historic building will enchant you with their offerings such as antique clocks, jewellery, gems, woodcarvings, batik and pewterware. The art-deco structure of the Central Market is a centre for the display and development of Malaysian culture, arts and crafts. There are many performances, demonstrations, and activities offered here, including batik painting, fortune telling, shadow puppet plays, glass blowing, dance classes, art classes, and many others. The building won the Coronation Architecture Design Award in 1953.
Craft Complex
Located on Jalan Conlay, this one-stop handicraft complex sprawls on lush landscaped grounds. It offers export-quality Malaysian handicraft such as silk, pottery, silk batik and unusual indigenous ethnic items like wooden blowpipes and traditional rattan fish traps. Daily: 9.00am - 6.00pm. Tel: 2162 7459
National Library
Located at Jalan Tun Razak, the blue-roofed building was inspired by a tengkolok, the traditional Malay headgear, and songtet, a richly-designed brocade fabric. The library is a very recent addition to Kuala Lumpur, having opened only in 1992. The extensive holdings include a collection of publications on Malaysia by Malaysian authors as well as ancient Malay manuscripts. Open: 1Oam-5pm (Sat-Sun), Closed on Monday.
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| Petaling Street: Shoppers' paradise |
Petaling Street
This is the centre of Kuala Lumpur's original Chinatown. Petaling Street still maintains much of its traditional atmosphere and old-world charm, particularly during the night time when a large number of vendors spread their wares out on the street. While it is possible to purchase anything from gems and incense to toys and T-shirts here, enjoying the night market is really a matter of just wandering around soaking in the bazaar atmosphere and enjoying its sights, sounds, and energy.
Kuala Selangor Park
This protected forest reserve is run by the Malaysian Nature Society, an NGO. The size of this park covers about 800 acres of secondary scrubs, mangrove swamps and inter-tidal mudflats which serve as a landing place not only for many migrating birds but is also home to many wild animals.
Railway Station
Built in 1910, the station is yet another historic building that reflects the influence of Moorish architecture. It was extensively renovated in 1986 to provide air-conditioned comfort and modern facilities for rail passengers. The Eastern & Oriental Express provides year-round service between Singapore and Bangkok and stops in Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 7984 9615
Lake Gardens
KL's most popular park, located at Jalan Perdana, showcases harmony, beauty and tranquility created by both man and nature. Built around two lakes, the sprawling 91.6 hectres tropical garden is a pleasant oasis within the city providing a cool and soothing ambience as one walks through a vista of exotic blooms, foliage, and imposing sculptures, Orchird Garden, Hibiscus Garden, Deer Park, Butterfly Park and Bird Park.
Kuala Lumpur Tower
Situated atop Bukit Nanas in the vicinity of KL's hotel district, this 421-metre high concrete tower is Asia's tallest and the fourth tallest in the world. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from its observation deck or its revolving restaurant. The tower also serves as a transmission station for telecommunications, radio and TV.
Merdeka Square
Facing the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is Merdeka Square, an immaculately-turfed 8.2 hectare area of historic interest. A 100-metre high flagpole marks the spot where the Malayan flag was hoisted on August 31, 1957 signifying the independence of the country from British rule. St. Mary's Cathedral is located nearby from the Selangor Royal Club, another popular landmark.
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| Petronas Twin Towers |
Petronas Twin Tower
Currently the world's tallest two freestanding towers, the 88-story Petronas Twin Towers soars to a dizzying height of 452 metres above the city skyline. The sky bridge joining the two towers on the 41st floor is open to the public daily between 10am-12.45pm and 3pm-4.45pm, except Mondays and public holidays. KLCC is not all of concrete and glass towers as it also offers its visitors an open park with beautiful landscape of rare botanical species from the rainforests.
Escape to the Hills
The cool colonial retreats in the mountains of Pahang and Perak, the old stone houses with their tales to tell, all add an aura of mystery to the English hillstations of Cameron, Fraser and Maxwell. Remnants of colonial rule in an ocean of rainforest: Tudor-style homes with chimneys and ivy-walls, rose gardens, pine trees and traditional afternoon tea. Walking in the cool, rarified air is one of the greatest pleasures of a highland escape - and a necessity for reviving the spirits and the senses.
Penang Hill
The first hill station in Malaysia, standing at 830 meters above sea level. Visitors have a choice of either hiking up the hill or take one of the funicular trains up. The view at the peak is picturesque and on a clear day you can see the whole island of Penang. The rail service is operational daily from 6.30 am and ends at 9.30 pm. Fare: RM4.00 for adults.
Maxwell Hill
It is accessible only by four-wheel drive vehicles and the serpentine road coils up from the torpid lowlands into the cool highlands brings about a seachange in mood. One must make a reservation at the foothill for the Land Rover service that is operational from 7.00am.
ISLAND HOPPING
Pangkor Island, Perak
An enchanting isle off the coast of Perak with well preserved jungle-forest, golden beaches and aquamarine clear water. Pangkor Laut Resort offers a first-class resort to well-heeled visitors and famous guests, among them is Luciano Pavarotti. Tel:05-699 1100
The Andaman Resort
Langkawi island has a cluster of 99 islets that offers great beaches, lagoons and beautiful coves. The Andaman Resort at the Datai Bay is nestled on a steep cliff and overlooking the Datai Bay which offers breathtaking views. Tel. 04-959 1088
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| Labuan island |
Labuan Island, Labuan
This off-shore financial island is located 8 kms off the western coast of Borneo and is accessible daily by air from Kuala Lumpur. The annual Labuan Sea Challenge offers sea enthusiasts a week of activities like wreak-diving, sport fishing and sailing. Labuan has several 5-star hotels. The Waterfront Hotel has a beautiful marina and inviting pools. Sunset at the marina is simply awesome and spell-binding. Tel:087-418 111
Sipadan Island
For the true diving enthusiast, the island of Sipadan is considered to be one of the best diving areas in this part of the world. What makes it special is that it is the only oceanic island in Malaysia rising 2,000 feet (600 meters) on a limestone pinnacle that 'mushrooms' out near the surface.
Mabul Island
A fantastic spot for sport fishing and it is a hop from Sipadan. One can make reservation with Seaventures for a holiday package of Big Game fishing and experience living on an oil-rig platform. Tel:088-261669; E-mail:seavent@po.jaring.my
IN JOHOR:
Pulau Tengah
This island is rich with marine life and rare species of fish and corals. Giant leatherback turtles make their ritual stopover when migrating southwards.
Pulau Rawa
A popular diving spot for many visitors as it offers beautiful corals and spectacular white long sandy beaches. A must-visit island.
Pulau Sibu
Just lie back on the beach and do nothing. A real tropical gem. Stunning views of palm-fringed beaches and tranquil waters.
Pulau Pemanggil
Here one can enjoy big game fishing, snorkelling, other water-based sports.
Pulau Aur
A beautiful island with secluded lagoons and offshore pool - perfect for bathing and a host of water sport activities.
Pulau Tinggi
Surrounded by the cobalt blue immensity of the sea, the largely uninhabited Pulau Tinggi lies like a precious emerald embedded in turquoise.
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| Penang: A perfect getaway |
COLONIAL TOURS
Pearl of the Orient or simply, Penang
The history of Penang can be traced back to 1786 when Captain Francis Light coaxed the Sultan of Kedah to concede the 'Betel Nut island' to the British East India Company. The island was originally named Prince of Wales Island and the settlement that soon grew was named Georgetown, after King George III. Georgetown, the capital of the island state is a bustling city that has a host of heritage buildings, bungalows bearing the stamp of its rich history.
Getting there
By air from KL International Airport: 40 minutes. By car on the North-South expressway: 2 1/2 hours Points of tourist interest include :
* Clock tower
* Fort Cornwallis
* Penang Museum and Art Gallery
* St. George's Church
* City Hall Esplanade
Many local tour operators offer interesting tour packages to Penang Island. Try giving one of them a ring on their special promotions.
Reliance Sightseeing:03-2141 8950,
Mitra Travel & Holidays:03-2163 2133
Malacca
Malacca bears witness to six centuries of existence with a rich heritage, courtesy of Portuguese, Dutch and English period. Malacca is synonymous with Peranakan or Straits-born Chinese culture. The town square is home to 17th century Dutch buildings, including the striking Christ Church which still contains its original pews. It was founded by an exiled prince from Sumatra, Parameswara in 1400.
Getting there:
By car on the North-South expressway: 1 1/2 hours Points of tourist interest include:
* The Stadhuys - built in 1650 as the official residence of Dutch governors and officers.
* Christ Church - another testimony to Dutch architectural ingenuity.
* St. Francis Xavier's Church - built in 1849 by Reverend Farve, a Frenchman.
* A Famosa fort Ð hallmark of Malacca was built as a fortress by the Portuguese and almost set to be destroyed by the Dutch but timely intervention by Stamford Raffles in 1808 saved what remains of A Famosa today.
* St. Paul's Church - built by a Portuguese captain, Duarte Coelho, the chapel was turned into a burial ground for the noble dead by the Dutch.
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| Rainforests: Natural heritage |
Visit the rain forest:
This is usually high on the list for anyone planning a trip to Malaysia, and it should be: the Malaysian rain forest is unique in the world, the oldest on the planet. A trip to one of the national parks, where you can take guided jungle treks both day and night, can be a profound experience. Nature has been infinitely inventive with life here, producing the world's largest flower, fantastically adapted insects and mammals, and trees that will make you gawk at their size. How thoroughly you experience it is up to you: most parks have resort-like headquarters where you can stay in comfort, or you can opt for a hard-core, guided trek deep into the jungle interior (which will of course require you to be in shape!).
Diving
The tropical waters off both Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo offer some of the world's best scuba diving. This is a place endowed with some of the sport's best possibilities: you can dive with whale sharks, hover around immense coral gardens and walls, or dive on ominous and hulking WWII shipwrecks. In many places, you can get 100 + feet of visibility.
Also, the country has become increasingly aware of the biological and economic importance of its marine heritage, and each year brings better access to and protection for the unique marine life. Because of the hundreds of islands, there are many dive options.
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| Shopping in Malaysia: A delightful experience |
Shopping
Next to activities like spelunking and jungle trekking, 'shopping' may sound a bit tame, but make no mistake: exploring Malaysia's outdoor markets is pure adventure (and of course you can take home whatever you hunt - or bargain). The variety of bargain items you can find in the major markets is endless, ranging from quality electronics to blowguns to traditional arts and crafts.
Currently, the dollar goes a long way in Malaysia, so if you're serious about shopping you might consider bringing an extra bag along. Or you could choose from a variety of good bags aviilable in the local stores. Most people from the Middle East are quick to grab the many movies available on low priced DVDs and VCDs.
Visit a longhouse
Along the rivers of Sarawak and Sabah are some very unique native communities where people live in structures called longhouses, which are really entire villages housed under a single long roof.
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| Longhouse: A peep into the past |
They live off small crops and the bounty of the rainforest, and their communality and generosity might best be summed up by one simple fact - anyone is welcome to stay for free for as long as they like (though it is recommended that you bring some small gifts, such as a candy for the kids). Most visitors come with a native guide who can also take you on a jungle walk and translate their language for you. Some longhouses have special 'guest longhouses' adjacent for visitors, others host guests inside the main longhouse itself. Surely, a new experience for visitors!
Spelunking
Nature has been almost as generous to Malaysia regarding its caves as it has with the rainforest. Both the world's largest single cave chamber, and the longest cave passage in Southeast Asia can be found in Sarawak's extraordinary Gunung Mulu National Park. In fact, almost every national park in Malaysia has a significant limestone cave system, and many of them offer guided tours, with varying levels of penetration.
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| Pocket Guide to Malaysia: Providing a wealth of information |
Dining Out
Because of its myriad cultural influences, Malaysia is a country renowned for its creative, complex, and lovingly prepared original cuisine. Food is taken very seriously here, from the five-star restaurants right down to the hawker's booths. Sauces tend to be highly developed, often incorporating local fruits and spices, and the seafood dishes are what youÕd expect from a country almost entirely surrounded by ocean. To get a good overview of what's out there, get a copy of Pocket Guide To Malaysia.
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