A unique nation in her own right, Malaysia is truly blessed by Mother Nature with a diverse and beautiful natural scenery in her possession. Malaysia offers visitor a wide variety of beaches, mountain, parks and unique slices of Malaysia tropical paradise. The climate is equable with no extremes. Amenities for good living abound – clean beaches offer swimming, clear water for skin diving and wonderful fishing, the hill country clean, cool air and there are championship golf courses. Moreover, this diversity spills well into her population mix, creating a little Asia within Malaysia. Malaysia population mainly Malays, Chinese, Indians, Kadazan, Dayaks, Iban, and numerous other minority groups has spawned a great many cultural and religious festivals earning Malaysia the title of “the land of festivals” and “the gourmands’s delights”. It doesn’t stop there, this land of smiles and courtesy invites you to travel and discover this nation of many faces and races. While Thailand seems synonymous with glimmering temples, and Singapore is remembered as a bustling modern city with excellent shopping, Malaysia has a little bit of the best of what South East Asian countries have to offer. When you ask the regular visitors about name Malaysia conjures up in their minds and they will inevitably tell you the same thing – legendary islands, fascinating culture and traditions, treasures, pleasures, mystical, enchanting, crisp mountain air and frendly people. They will all be absolutely right. Malaysia is a fantastic and fascinating country.
HISTORY
Prehistory
Archaeological remains have been found throughout peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak. The Semang have a deep ancestry within the Malay Peninsula, dating to the initial settlement from Africa over 50,000 years ago. The Senoi appear to be a composite group, with approximately half of the maternal lineages tracing back to the ancestors of the Semang and about half to Indochina. This is in agreement with the suggestion that they represent the descendants of early Austronesian speaking agriculturalists, who brought both their language and their technology to the southern part of the peninsula approximately 5,000 years ago and coalesced with the indigenous population. The Aboriginal Malays are more diverse, and although they show some connections with island Southeast Asia, some also have an ancestry in Indochina around the time of the Last Glacial Maximum, followed by an early-Holocene dispersal through the Malay Peninsula into island Southeast Asia
Early History
Ptolemy showed the Malay Peninsula on his early map with a label that translates as "Golden Chersonese", the Straits of Malacca were referred to as "Sinus Sabaricus". From the mid to the late first millennium, much of the Peninsula as well as the Malay Archipelago were under the influence of Srivijaya.There were numerous Chinese and Indian kingdoms in the 2nd and 3rd centuries CE—as many as 30 according to Chinese sources. Kedah—known as Kedaram, Cheh-Cha (according to I-Ching) or Kataha, in ancient Pallava or Sanskrit—was in the direct route of invasions of Indian traders and kings. Rajendra Chola, Tamil Emperor who is now thought to have laid Kota Gelanggi to waste, put Kedah to heel in 1025 but his successor, Vira Rajendra Chola, had to put down a Kedah rebellion to overthrow the invaders. The coming of the Chola reduced the majesty of Srivijaya, which had exerted influence over Kedah and Pattani and even as far as Ligor.
Bujang Valley early historic temple (Kedah) |
British Colonialism
Britain established its first colony in the Malay Peninsula in 1786, with the lease of the island of Penang to the British East India Company by the Sultan of Kedah. In 1824, the British took control of Malacca following the Anglo-Dutch Treaty of 1824 which divided the Malay archipelago between Britain and the Netherlands, with Malaya in the British zone. In 1826, Britain established the crown colony of the Straits Settlements, uniting its four possessions in Malaya: Penang, Malacca, Singapore and the island of Labuan. The Straits Settlements were initially administered under the East India Company in Calcutta, before first Penang, and later Singapore became the administrative centre of the crown colony, until 1867, when they were transferred to the Colonial Office in London.
Britain established its first colony in the Malay Peninsula in 1786, with the lease of the island of Penang to the British East India Company by the Sultan of Kedah. In 1824, the British took control of Malacca following the Anglo-Dutch Treaty of 1824 which divided the Malay archipelago between Britain and the Netherlands, with Malaya in the British zone. In 1826, Britain established the crown colony of the Straits Settlements, uniting its four possessions in Malaya: Penang, Malacca, Singapore and the island of Labuan. The Straits Settlements were initially administered under the East India Company in Calcutta, before first Penang, and later Singapore became the administrative centre of the crown colony, until 1867, when they were transferred to the Colonial Office in London.
Pangkor treaty 1874 |
Sultanate Abu Bakar of Johor |
Japanese invasion of Malaya |
Malaya independent day |
MALAYSIA LOCATION
Malaysia lies close to the equator, between latitudes 1° and 7° north and longitudes 100° and 120° east. Situated in Southeast Asia, Malaysia, with an area of 329,750 sq km (127,317 sq mi), consists of two noncontiguous areas: Peninsular Malaysia (formerly West Malaysia), on the Asian mainland, and the states of Sarawak and Sabah, known together as East Malaysia, on the island of Borneo.
Click to enlarge |
Malaysia is the 43rd most populated country and the 66th largest country by total land area in the world, with a population of about 27 million and a land area of over 320,000 km2 respectively. It is comparable in population to Saudi Arabia and Venezuela, and is roughly similar in size to Norway and Vietnam, along with the U.S. state of New Mexico.
Mount Kinabalu |
Putrajaya (administrative capital) |
Malaysia claims several atolls of the Spratly Island group in the South China Sea. The claim, in a region where oil is suspected, is disputed by China, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Malaysia's capital city, Kuala Lumpur, is located in the western part of Peninsular Malaysia.
PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
Gunung (Mountain) Tahan |
CLIMATE
MALAYSIA (State City)
Yang Dipertuan Agong |
DUN |
Parliment of Malaysia |
Malaysia is made up of 13 states with two federal territories. The list of the varions states and their capitals including the territories :
State | Known as | Capitals |
Perlis | Land of Rustic Beauty | Kangar |
Kedah | Land With a Rich Heritage | Alor Setar |
Penang | The Pearl of the Orient | Georgetown |
Perak | The Land of Grace | Ipoh |
Selangor | The Heartland of the Nation | Shah Alam |
Negeri Sembilan | Land of Minangkabau Tradition | Seremban |
Malacca | Where It All Began | Melaka |
Johor | The Southern Gateway | Johor Bahru |
Pahang | Where Adventure Beckons | Kuantan |
Terengganu | Land of Long Sandy Beaches and Turtles | Kuala Terengganu |
Kelantan | The Cultural Capital | Kopta Bharu |
Sabah | The Land Below the Wind | Kota KInabalu |
Sarawak | The Hidden Paradise of Borneo | Kuching |
Federal Territory | The Garden City of Light | Kuala Lumpur |
Labuan (Federal Territory) | Malaysia's Pearl of the South China Sea | Labuan |
ECONOMY SYSTEM
Tanjung Pelepas Port |
The Malaysian economy went into sharp recession in 1997-1998 during the Asian financial crisis, which affected countries throughout the region, including South Korea, Indonesia, and Thailand. Malaysia's GDP contracted by more than 7% in 1998. Malaysia narrowly avoided a return to recession in 2001 when its economy was negatively impacted by the bursting of the dot-com bubble (which hurt the ICT sector) and slow growth or recession in many of its important export markets.In July 2005, the government removed the 7-year old peg linking the ringgit's value to the U.S. dollar at an exchange rate of RM 3.8/U.S. $1.0. The dollar peg was replaced by a managed float against an undisclosed basket of currencies. The new exchange rate policy was designed to keep the ringgit more broadly stable and to avoid uncertain currency swings which could harm exports.
POLITICAL SYSTEM
Malaysia is a multi-party system since the first direct election of the Federal Legislative Council of Malaya in 1955 on a first-past-the-post basis. The ruling party since then has always been the Alliance Party coalition and subsequently from 1973 onwards, its successor the National Front coalition. The National Front currently consists of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA), Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) and 11 other political parties. Malaysia is a federal constitutional elective monarchy. The federal head of state of Malaysia is the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, commonly referred to as he King of Malaysia. The Yang di-Pertuan Agong is elected to a five-year term among the nine hereditary Sultans of the Malay states; the other four states, which have titular Governors, do not participate in the selection.
Parliment of Malaysia |
Executive power is vested in the cabinet led by the prime minister; the Malaysian constitution stipulates that the prime minister must be a member of the lower house of parliament who, in the opinion of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, commands a majority in parliament. The cabinet is chosen from among members of both houses of Parliament and is responsible to that body. State governments are led by Chief Ministers (Menteri Besar in Malay states or Ketua Menteri in states without hereditary rulers), who is a state assembly member from the majority party in the Dewan Undangan Negeri. In each of the states with a hereditary ruler, the Chief Minister is required to be a Malay Muslim, although this rule is subject to the rulers' discretion. The Constitution of Malaysia is codified and the system of government is based on the Westminster system. Although Malaysian politics has been relatively stable, critics allege that "the government, ruling party, and administration...are intertwined with few countervailing forces
CAPITAL CITY
Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysian, is the heartbeat of the nation.
POPULATION
Malaysia's multi-racial society contains many ethnic groups. Malays comprise a majority of just over 50%. By constitutional definition, all Malays are Muslim. About a quarter of the population is ethnic Chinese, a group which historically played an important role in trade and business. Malaysians of Indian descent comprise about 7% of the population and include Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, and Christians. Non-Malay indigenous groups combine to make up approximately 11% of the population.
Population density is highest in peninsular Malaysia, home to some 20 million of the country's 27 million inhabitants. The remaining 7 million live on the Malaysian portion of the island of Borneo in the large but less densely-populated states of Sabah and Sarawak. More than half of Sarawak's residents and about two-thirds of Sabah's are from indigenous groups.
TRANSPORTATION
Malaysia is served by an excellent transport system. Once you are in the country there is always transport available to you to even remote areas. Traveling by road in peninsula Malaysia is popular as it has well- developed network of roads. Once you are in the country there is always transport available to you to even remote areas. There are various options available as to how you might wish to get to a destination. Generally it depends convenience and affordability and what’ s the best way to see the sights as you travel.In Sabah and Sarawak, traveling by four-wheel drive is recommended on unpaved roads, and many remote areas can only be reached by air or river-boats. Traveling by rail is also highly recommended as you get to see the countryside.Naturally the main transportation hub is from its capital, Kuala Lumpur
Road
Taxis in major cities are usually fitted with meters. In KL, the rate is currently RM2 for the first two kilometres and 10 sen for every subsequent 200 metres. However, a surcharge of 50% will be levied between midnight and 6am. Interstate and smaller town taxis charge a fixed rate and it’s best to settle on a price before getting into the taxi.
Air
Air
Malaysia has six international airports are at Sepang in Selangor, Penang Island, Langkawi Island, Kota Kinabalu and Tawau in sabah, and Kuching in Sarawak.Malaysia is served by more than 35 airlines including Malaysia Airlines which services 94 international routes around the globe. in addition to Malaysia Airlines (MAS), a number of other airlines including Pelangi Air, Berjaya air and Mofaz Air also provide regular domestic flights to the many tourists destinations and cities within the country.
Please Check for more information:
Rail
It is possible to travel by rail within and to Peninsular Malaysia via Thailand and from Singapore. Malayan Railways or Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM) connects all major towns in the Peninsular. First, Second or Economy Class air-conditioned coaches are available. The northbound Ekspres Langkawi departs nightly from Kuala Lumpur to Arau in Kedah. Arriving in the morning, it then proceeds to Hatyai, Thailand before returning back to Arau in the evening.Senandung Malam is a KL-Butterworth-KL and KL-Singapore-KL sectional nightly service. Sleeping berths are provided in the first and second class coaches.All express services have a restaurant coach serving local and continental cuisine. Tickets may be purchased 60 days in advance from the date of travel. Children aged from four to twelve are charged half the adult fare whilst those below four travel free. Available to foreign tourists is the 30-day or 10-day Tourist Railpass which provides unlimited travel on KTM during that period.
Sea
Penang Ferry |
TIME
Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of the USA pacific standard time
CURRENCY
The exchange rate for the Malaysian Ringgit for all currency
ENTRY FORMALITIES
(DRUGS TRAFFICKING OR ILLEGAL DRUGD CARRIES DEATH PENALTY)
Visitors must be in possession of national passports or other internationally recognized travel documents, endorsed for travelling in Malaysia and with a period of validity of at least six months beyond the time of stay allowed in Malaysia.
Visitors on social and business visit purposes are to be guided by the following visa requirements:
a. Visa Exemption
No visas are required for citizens of Commonwealth countries (except Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka), British Protected Persons or citizens of the Republic of Ireland and citizens of Switzerland, Netherlands, San Marino and Liechtenstein.
b. Three Months Visa Free Visit
Citizens of Albania, Austria, Algeria, Bahrain, Belgium, Czech Republic, Republic of Slovakia, Denmark, egypt, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Lebanon, Morocco, Norway, North Yemen, Oman, Qatar, South Korea, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Tunisia, United States of America and United Arab Emirates are eligible for three months visa free visit.
c. One Month Vis Free Visit Applicable to citizens of ASEAN countries.
d. 14-Days Visa Free Visit
Citizens of Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Syria and South Yemen are eligible for 14-days visa free visit.
e. 7-Days Visa Free Visit
Applicable to citizens of Bulgaria, romania and Russia
As regulations may change from time to time, it is advisable to check with the nearest Malaysian Embassy before your departure.
CUSTOMS FORMALITIES
Visitors entering Malaysia may bring in or take out any amount of currency
b. Dutiable and Non-Dutiable Goods
Some goods such as the following, imported by visitors are liable to duty: carpets, garments, clothing accessories, jewellery, chocolates, handbags, spirits, alcoholic beverages, tobacco and cigarettes. Visitors bringing in dutiable goods may have to pay a deposit for temporary importation, refunable on departure. The goods are to be presented at the time of departure at the point of exit together with the deposite receipts. Non-dutiable goods include cameras, watches, pens, lighters, perfumeries and cosmetics.
c. Health Regulations
Yellow Fever vaccination is required for all visitors coming from yellow fever infected areas or endemic zones except for children under 1 year of age.
BUSINNES HOURS
Beginning from February 2000, the government has given all emplyess of the public sector an off day on the first and third Saturday of each month. The country is run a normal eight hours a day system with Saturday as half day and Sunday a day of rest. In the states of Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah, Friday is a day of rest with Thursday as half days.
BANKING
Banking hours are normally from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm on weekdays. Banks in all states except Kelantan, Terengganu dan Kedah close on the first Saturay of every month. On the half-working day on the remaining Saturday, they begin from 9:30 am to 11:00 am. For states where banks observe Friday as their public holidays, the banks will be closed on the first Thursday of each month. There can be slight variations on the opening hours among individual banks or financial institutions. Departments stores and supermarkets are opened daily from 9:00 am/ 10:00 am to 10 pm
MEDICAL SERVICES
Medical services are available in most towns in the form of government-run hospitals and private clinics. Non-prescription drugs are available at the pharmacies as well as supermarkets, hotels and shopping centres. Private clinics can be found in the shopping malls, shop houses, business complexes, nearby residential areas and others.
HEALTH REGULATIONS
Yellow Fever vaccination is required for all visitors coming from yellow fever infected areas or endemic zones except for children under 1 year of age.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Malaysia is served with the latest telecommunication services worldwide. Public phones are abundant, especially at strategic or crowded places in the cities, towns and rural areas. The telephones are operated by coins, cardphone or both . International calls can be made from phone booth with card phone facilities or at any Telecoms offices. In places such as airport, the office of the Immigration Department, International Direct dial (IDD) public phones are also provided. Most hotels are equipped with IDD service with a minimal service charge.
POSTAL SERVICES
Post offices are opened daily from 8am to 5 pm and closed on Sunday and public holidays (for Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, closed on Friday and public holidays). The General post Office in Kuala Lumpur is opened from 8 am to 6 pm daily and from 10 am to 12:45 pm on Sundays. Other than the ordinary delivery services, there is courier service called the Expedited Mail Service called theExpedited Mail Service (EMS) or locally known as Poslaju. Most international hotels is provide postal services at the front desks.
WEIGHT AND MEASUREMENTS
The metric system is used with metres, kilograms, litres as the standard while milestones are marked by both kilometres and miles.
LANGUAGE
Bahasa Melayu is the national language but english is widely spoken. Bahasa Melayu and is compulsory in official correspondence particularly in the government sector. While, numerous varieties of Chinese and Indian dialects are spoken too besides the countries indigenous language.
RELIGION
Islam is the official religion but Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity and other religions are practised freely. Visitors will find mosques, churches, and temples sited next to each other. Most of the religious festivals are gazetted public holidays and celebrated nationwide regardless of race.
FLORA AND FAUNA
The natural vegetation is rich tropical rain forest, covering about 50% of Malaysia land area and is found most luxuriant form, on the lowlands and hills, especially in Pahang, located in central Malaysia, where it is believed to be older than the jungles of the Amazon. Malaysia has very rich and diverse wildlife with hundreds of species of mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians and countless insects, including more than 1000 species of butterflies. The best known of the reptiles are the marine giant leatherback turtles which come to nest on the east coast. The elephant, the tiger, and the leopard still roam the jungles.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Finding suitable accommodation is unlikely to be a problem. Malaysia has a wide range of accommodation at competitive rates. The international standard hotels, medium and budget hotels, youth hostels, chalets, inns and timeshare apartments are just some of the type of accommodation available. A room in an international-standard hotel costs from Rm250 and above, whilst the medium and budget category of accommodation are obtainable from any of the Tourism Malaysia’s offices the world. Most hotels have participated in the star-valued (from 5-star to 1-star) categorisation scheme by the Ministry of Culture, Ars and Tourism.
EATING OUT
Eating out in Malaysia is a real gastronomic adventure. There is such a great variety – spicy Malay food, a seemingly endless variety of Chinese food, exotic cuisine from North and South India, as well as Nyonya and Portuguese food. Popular Malaysia dishes include satay, nasi lemak, rendang, roti canai, murtabak, laksa, chicken rice and fried noodles. Western cruisine is easily available. In addition, international fast fast-food chains operate in the major towns side by side with thousands of roadside stalls and food bazaars.
SHOPPING
Shopping in Malaysia is a voyage of never ending discovery – a hunt for the rare treasure of the orient, a branded designer good or an intricate local handicraft. Malaysia presents the shopper the best the has to offer. The competitive ringgit exchange, the variety of product lines, quality goods as well as the choice of shopping venues have made Malaysia a shopper’s paradise. If you looking for something uniquely Malaysian, you couldn’t go wrong with pewter ware, songket and batik, to name a few. Malaysia’s tax haven are Pulau Langkawi and Labuan. Duty free are also found at Rantau Panjang and Pengkalan Kubur both in Kelantan, and Padang Besar and Bukit Kau Hitam in Kedah. An interesting mix duty free shops can also be found at city centres and airports in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Penang.
SHOPPING
Shopping in Malaysia is a voyage of never ending discovery – a hunt for the rare treasure of the orient, a branded designer good or an intricate local handicraft. Malaysia presents the shopper the best the has to offer. The competitive ringgit exchange, the variety of product lines, quality goods as well as the choice of shopping venues have made Malaysia a shopper’s paradise. If you looking for something uniquely Malaysian, you couldn’t go wrong with pewter ware, songket and batik, to name a few. Malaysia’s tax haven are Pulau Langkawi and Labuan. Duty free are also found at Rantau Panjang and Pengkalan Kubur both in Kelantan, and Padang Besar and Bukit Kau Hitam in Kedah. An interesting mix duty free shops can also be found at city centres and airports in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Penang.
WHAT AND WHEE TO BUY (Special things)
1. Pewterware
Exquisitely crafted pewter items include mugs, goblets, coffe sets, ash trays, vases, figurines, clock, letter-opener and plaques. Leading names are Royal Selangor and Tumasek. They can be found at Hotel shopping arcades and shopping complexes.
2. Batik
Batik combines wax brushing, dyeing, drying and boiling the material which may be silk, cotton, rayon or satin. Batik items include hats, scarves, ties, handkerchiefs, purses, kraftan, shirts, wrap-around skirts, sun dresses, tablecloths, handbags, purses and paintings. The quality of batik varies greatly. Good quality batik are sold at large handicraft centres.
3. Songket
songket is Malaysian brocade that is intricately handwoven with silver or gold threads. Rich and heavily-embroidered, the cloth makes superb evening gowns. Buy the material untailored and have it made to measure, or buy songket items such as handbags.
4. PotterySarawak pottery is ochre-coloured with bold geometric designs. Sayong pottery, from Perak, has the characteristic glossy black colour. There is even pottery, from Johor, which uses batik and gold thread for a distinctive look. Handicraft centres offer the best variety.
5. Gold
Gold is of high quality here, often 22K. items of traditional designs or avant garde are available. Jewellers are located at shopping complexes, hotels, duty free shops within the city centre.
6. Silk
Silk from Cendering, Terengganu is of international quality and makes a good buy. Best bought at a handicraft centre or a specialty shop.
7. Brassware
Brassware items generally come from the cottage industries in Terengganu. Items include candle stands, vases, ash tray and plaques. Best bought at handicraft centres.
8. Silverwork
Silverwork especially those from Kelantan, is exquisite. Items to buy are rose bowls,napkin holders, plaques and filigree jewellery. Handicraft centres are again the best choices to buy silverwork.
9. WoodcarvingsWoodcarvings, again, those from Kelantan or Terengganu, are of excellent workmanship. Wood figurines of the orang asli (aborigines) also make good buys. As these are bulky items, you can make arrangement with the stores to have them sent home. Shopping complexes stock a good range of such products.
10. Basketry
Mengkuang leaves (screw pine) woven into table mats, hats, bags and bedroom slippers make attractive and functional items. They are also inexpensive. Mengkuang products can be found at handicraft centres.
11. Food items
Check out the supermarket, grocery stores or pasar malam for locally-produced items such as tea, pepper, prawn crackers and instant food preparations.
ENTERTAINMENT AND NIGHTLIFE
When the sun goes down, the city nightspots pulsate to the pulsated to the rhythm of the nightlife. There’s always something to do on cities, with their profusion of karaoke lounges, pubs, cinemas, theatres, nightclubs, cabarets, bowling alleys and snooker centres. This is complemented by pasar malam, the local night street market. The government-owned Radio Television Malaysia (RTM) operates TV and radio channels covering the whole nation in various languages .. In addition, there are other regional radio channels catering to listeners in specific regions as well as Sabah and sarawak. There are also a number of private broadcasting operators such as TV3 and ASTRO yang menawarkan channel lebih kurang 35 saluran (news, movies, musical, sport, cartoon, education channel, adventure channel, Chinese, Arabs etc) and at least 20 radio channels in Malay, English, Chineseand Indians languages.
1. Pewterware
Exquisitely crafted pewter items include mugs, goblets, coffe sets, ash trays, vases, figurines, clock, letter-opener and plaques. Leading names are Royal Selangor and Tumasek. They can be found at Hotel shopping arcades and shopping complexes.
2. Batik
Batik combines wax brushing, dyeing, drying and boiling the material which may be silk, cotton, rayon or satin. Batik items include hats, scarves, ties, handkerchiefs, purses, kraftan, shirts, wrap-around skirts, sun dresses, tablecloths, handbags, purses and paintings. The quality of batik varies greatly. Good quality batik are sold at large handicraft centres.
3. Songket
songket is Malaysian brocade that is intricately handwoven with silver or gold threads. Rich and heavily-embroidered, the cloth makes superb evening gowns. Buy the material untailored and have it made to measure, or buy songket items such as handbags.
4. PotterySarawak pottery is ochre-coloured with bold geometric designs. Sayong pottery, from Perak, has the characteristic glossy black colour. There is even pottery, from Johor, which uses batik and gold thread for a distinctive look. Handicraft centres offer the best variety.
5. Gold
Gold is of high quality here, often 22K. items of traditional designs or avant garde are available. Jewellers are located at shopping complexes, hotels, duty free shops within the city centre.
6. Silk
Silk from Cendering, Terengganu is of international quality and makes a good buy. Best bought at a handicraft centre or a specialty shop.
7. Brassware
Brassware items generally come from the cottage industries in Terengganu. Items include candle stands, vases, ash tray and plaques. Best bought at handicraft centres.
8. Silverwork
Silverwork especially those from Kelantan, is exquisite. Items to buy are rose bowls,napkin holders, plaques and filigree jewellery. Handicraft centres are again the best choices to buy silverwork.
9. WoodcarvingsWoodcarvings, again, those from Kelantan or Terengganu, are of excellent workmanship. Wood figurines of the orang asli (aborigines) also make good buys. As these are bulky items, you can make arrangement with the stores to have them sent home. Shopping complexes stock a good range of such products.
10. Basketry
Mengkuang leaves (screw pine) woven into table mats, hats, bags and bedroom slippers make attractive and functional items. They are also inexpensive. Mengkuang products can be found at handicraft centres.
11. Food items
Check out the supermarket, grocery stores or pasar malam for locally-produced items such as tea, pepper, prawn crackers and instant food preparations.
ENTERTAINMENT AND NIGHTLIFE
When the sun goes down, the city nightspots pulsate to the pulsated to the rhythm of the nightlife. There’s always something to do on cities, with their profusion of karaoke lounges, pubs, cinemas, theatres, nightclubs, cabarets, bowling alleys and snooker centres. This is complemented by pasar malam, the local night street market. The government-owned Radio Television Malaysia (RTM) operates TV and radio channels covering the whole nation in various languages .. In addition, there are other regional radio channels catering to listeners in specific regions as well as Sabah and sarawak. There are also a number of private broadcasting operators such as TV3 and ASTRO yang menawarkan channel lebih kurang 35 saluran (news, movies, musical, sport, cartoon, education channel, adventure channel, Chinese, Arabs etc) and at least 20 radio channels in Malay, English, Chineseand Indians languages.
NEWSPAPERS AND MAGAZINES
Newspapers and magazines come in all all languages according to the racial composition of the country. English, Malay, chinese, Tamil, Arabs and others are readily available . Foreign newspapers and magazines can be obtained from most bookstores and around the major centres in this country.
SPORTS
Sports and sporting events command a very large following among Malaysian of all ages. Soccer enjoys a tremendous popularity. Also popular are badminton, sepak takraw, tennis, golf, squash and motor racing. Sea sports such as wind-surfing and sailing are gaining popularity and traditional Malaysian pastimes such as sepak takraw, giant top spinning and kite flying are also pursued. Most hotels have their own well-equipped health clubs as well as swimming pools.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
New Year's Day | January |
Chinese New Year | 14 Feb |
Federal Territory Day(Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur & Labuan | 1 Feb |
Mawlid al-Nabi (Birth of Prophet Muhammad) | 9 March (TBA) |
Wesak Day (Birth of Buddha) | 8 May |
King's Birthday | 6 Jun |
Merdeka Day (National Day) | 31 Ogos |
Hari Raya Puasa (End of Ramadhan) | 21 Sept (TBA) |
Deepavali (Except Labuan & Sarawak) | 17 Oct (TBA) |
Hari Raya Qurban | 27-28 Nov (TBA) |
Awal Muharram | 18 Dec (TBA) |
Christmas Day | 25 Dec |
Labour Day | 1 Mei |
TBA = To be Announced
MAJOR/ NATIONAL FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Malaysias celebrate many festivals throughout the year. During this celebrations, visitors to Malaysian home are offered festive cakes and delicacies.
Hari Raya Aidil Fitri
(determined by Muslim calender)
Hari Raya Aidil Fitri is celebrated by Muslim after month-long Ramadan (Fasting month). For Muslims, Hari Raya Aidil Fitri or Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of Ramadhan, a month of fasting from sunrise to sunset , and the first of syawal, the tenth month Muslim calendar. usher in the festival with prayers in the mosques followed by receiving well-wishers in their home by visits to the graves of the departed. Many tourists will be invited to sample the warm Malaysian hospitality during this occasion.
Hari Raya Aidil Adha (determined by Muslim calender)
Hari Raya Aidil Adha (Hari Raya Haji) falls on tenth day of Zulhijjah, the twelfth month of the Muslim calendar, ususally two month after Hari Raya Aidil Fitri. The festival is celebrated by Hajis and Hajjahs (men and women, respectively, who have made a pilgrim to Mecca)
Awal Muharram (determined by Muslim calender)
Awal Muharram (or Maal Hijrah) is the beginning of the Islamic New Year. This day coincides with the Prophet Muhammad’s journey from Mecca to Medina in 622AD on the first of Muharram.
Prophet muhammad’s Birthday (determined by Muslim calender)
Prophet Muhammad’s was born on 12 Rabiulawal, the third month of the Muslim calender in 570AD. His Birthday is celebrated with religious lectures and recital of verses from the Koran.
Chinese New Year (January/ February)
Chinese New Year is a joyous time when friends and relatives give each other angpows – red packets with a gift of cash as a token of prosperity and celebrate with feast and lion dances to ward off evil spirits and usher in the lunar new year. Family reunion dinners are a must among Chinese on the eve of the new year.
Thaipusam (January/February- determined by Hindu calender)
A Hindu festival full of colour pageantry and throbbing excitement reminiscent of the Mardi Gras. It is an occasion for Hindu devotees to pay homage by piercing their bodies with sharp objects and carrying of ‘kavadis’ to Hindu temples. A Kavadi is either a metal or wooden arch with elaborate decorations, which is placed on devotee’s shoulder.
Vasakhi (April)
Vasakhi, celebrated by sikhs were baptised by Guru Gobind Singh, the Sikh’s 10 guru. Sikhs celebrate by religious prayers and by partaking of a vegetarian lunch.
Wesak Day (May)
Celebrated by Buddhists. This day is the most important day in Buddhist calendar marking the birth, enlightenment and death of Lord buddha. Buddhist devotees will gather in temples throughout the country to release small birds and to offer prayers. Wesak is also an occasion to offer alms to monks.
Kaamatan Festival (May)
‘Kaamatan’ or Harvest Festival is celebrated by the Kadazans and Dusuns of Sabah to give thanks for a bountiful harvest. Highlights include a beauty contest, cultural dances and rituals culminating in the thanksgiving ceremony performed by the ‘bobohizan’ or high priestess
Gawai Dayak (May/ June)
This ceremony celebrated by the Dayaks of sarawak, marks the end of the paddy-planting season. Join the harvest celebrations of the Ibans and Bidayuhs as they gather in their traditional long-houses for family reunions, games and feasting.Their gather traditional long-houses for family reunions
Festival of San Pedro (June)
Festival of San Pedro a delightful cultural event where the descendants of early Portuguese settlers celebrate the birthday of the patron saint of fisherman, St. Pedro. The fishing boats which are colourfully decorated for the festivals are blessed and prayers offered for a better season.
Flora Festival/ Parade (July)
Kuala Lumpur, the Garden City blooms even lovelier during this week. There will be flora hunts, flower sales, exhibitions of Malaysia’s diverse flora at public gardens, and hotel lobbies. Shopping complexes will also be attractively-displayed with floral arrangements. This week culminates in a spectacular international Floral Parade.
National Day (31 August)
The country celebrates it’s independence on 31 August with parades, exhibitions, stage shows and other cultural activities will be held. Towns and cities throughout Malaysia will be gaily decorated and adorned with lights for the grand occasion
Malaysia Fest (September)
For two weeks, all the major hotels and shopping complexes join forces to feature the culture, cuisine and handicraft of the various states in Malaysia.
The Moon Festivals (September)
Perayaan ini dirayakan oleh masyarakat Cina pada hari ke-15 of the eight lunar month. Keistimewaan utama pada bulan hari ini ditandakan dengan mooncake and lanters. It was on this night in ancient china that the Hans overthrew the Mongols. Night celebrations see the making of sacrificial on open-air and lantern parades by children.
Shopping Carnival (October)
Bargains galore at shopping establishments in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Penang during this annual two weeks shopping extravaganza.
Deepavali (October/ November)
Deepavali is also known as the Festival of lights. Deepavali is celebrated by Hindus to commemorate the triumph of Lord Krishna over the forces of evil led by Nargansuran. During this festival, Hindu homes are emblazoned with lights to symbolize this triumph.
Christmas (25 December)
Christmas is celebrated by Christians similar to any other part of the world. Midnight services are held at churches on Christmas eve. Shopping centres, hotels, oldfolks homes and children’s home echo with beautiful carols. The revelry and yuletide spirit of Christmas is enjoyed by Christians and non-Christians.
Note:
Date of festivals may vary from year to year. Please check with Tourism Malaysia’s Office nearest to you
MALAYSIA TOURISM PROMOTION BOARD (TOURISM MALAYSIA) OFFICES
HEAD OFFICE
17th, 24th-27th & 30 th Floor
Menara Dato onn
Putra World Trade Centre,
45, Jalan Tun Ismail,
50480, Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03-2935188
Fax: 03-2935884
URL: http//tourism.gov.my
E-mail: tourism@tourism.gov.my
REGIONAL OFFICES
NORTHERN REGION
10, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah,
10200 Penang,
Tel: 04-2619067, 2620066
Fax: 04-2623688
E-mail: mtpbpen@tourism.gov.my
SOUTHERN REGION
Suite 5-2, Johor Tourist
Information Centre (JOTIC),
2, Jalan Ayer Molek,
80000 johor Bahru,
Tel: 07-2223591, 2240288
Fax: 07-2235502
E-mail: mtpbjhb@tourism.gov.my
EAST COAST REGION
5th floor
Menara Yayasan Islam Terengganu
Jalan Sultan Omar,
20300 Kuala Terengganu
Tel: 09-622 1433
Fax: 09-622 1893
E-Mail: mtpbkt@tourism.gov.my
SABAH OFFICE
Ground Floor,
Bangunan EON CMG Life,
No.1, Jalan Sagunting,
88000 Kota Kinabalu,
Tel: 088-248698, 242064, 211732
Fax: 088-241764
E-mail: mtpbbki@tourism.gov.my
SARAWAK OFFICE
2nd Floor, Bangunan Rugayah,
Jalan Song thian Cheok,
93100 Kuching,
Tel: 082-246575, 246775
Fax: 082-246442
E-mail: mtpbkch@tourism.gov.my
OVERSEAS OFFICES
AUSTRALIA – Sydney
65, York Street,
Sydney, NSW 2000,
AUSTRALIA.
Tel: 02-2994441/2/3
Fax: 02-2622026
E-mail: httan@tourism.gov.my
AUSTRALIA – Perth
56, William Street,
Perth, WA 6000,
AUSTRALIA.
Tel: 09-94810400
Fax: 09-93211421
E-mail: tourmal@omen.net.au
CANADA
830, Burrard Street,
Vancouver, B.C.,
CANADA V6Z 2K4,
Tel: 604-689 8899
Fax: 604-689 8804
E-mail: mtpb.vancouver@tourism.gov.my
FRANCE
Office National du
Tourisme de Malaisie,
29, Rue des Pyramides,
75001 Paris,
FRANCE.
Tel: 331-4297 4171
Fax: 331-4297 4169
E-mail: malaisie@club-internet.fr
GERMANY
Rossmarkt 11,
60311, frankfurt Am Main,
GERMANY.
Tel: 069-283 782/ 783
Fax: 069-133 79121
E-mail: mtpb.frankfurt@arcormail.de
HONG KONG
Ground Floor,
Malaysia Building,
No 47-50, Gloucester road,
HONG KONG,
Tel: 852-2528 5810/ 5811
Fax: 852-2865 4610
E-mail: mtpbhkg@netvigator.com
ITALY
Secondo Piano,
Piazza San Babila 4/B,
20122 Milano,
ITALY.
Tel: 02-796 702
Fax: 02-796 806
E-mail: mtpb.milan@tourism.gov.my
JAPAN-Osaka
10th floor, Cotton Nissay Building,
1-8-2, Utsubo-Honmachi
Nishi-ku, Osaka 550-0004
JAPAN.
Tel: 06-6444-1220
Fax: 06-6444-1380
E-mail: mtpbosa@movenet.or.jp
JAPAN- Tokyo
5F Chiyoda Building,
1-6-4, Yurakucho,
Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0006
JAPAN
Tel: 03-3501-8691
Fax: 03-3501-8692
VOICE FAX INFOSERV.
Tel: 03-3249 7210/ ACC CODE 4370#
E-mail: mtpb.tokyo@tourism.gov.my
URL: http://www.tourismmalaysia.ot.jp
SINGAPORE
10, Collyer Quay,
#01-06, Ocean Building,
SINGAPORE 049315
Tel: 65-532 6321/ 6351
Fax: 65-535 6650
E-mail: mtpb.singapore@tourism.gov.my
SOUTH AFRICA
1st Floor, Hutton Court,
Cnr. Of Jan Smuts Avenue & Summit Road,
Hyde Park 2196,
Johannesburg,
SOUTH AFRICA.
Tel: 011-327 0400/ 0401
Fax: 011-327 0205
E-mail: mtpb.johannesburg@tourism.gov.my
SOUTH KOREA
1st Floor, Han Young Building,
57-9, Seosomun-dong,
Chung-ku, Seoul,
SOUTH KOREA.
Tel: 02-779-4422/ 4251,
7794253 (DL)
Fax: 02-7794254
E-mail: mtpb@users.unitel.co.kr
SWEDEN
Klarabergsgatan 35, 2tr.,
11121 Stockholm. SWEDEN
Tel: 46-8-24 99 00
Fax: 46-8-24 23 24
E-mail: mtpb.stockholm@tourism.gov.my
TAIWAN
Suite C, 8th Floor, Hung Tai Centre,
170, Tun Hwa North Road, Taipei. TAIWAN
Tel: 02-2514-9704/ 9734
Fax: 02-2514-9973
E-mail: mtpbtpe@ms29.hinet.net
THAILAND
Unit 1001, Liberty Square,
287, Silom Road, Bangkok 10500, THAILAND
Tel: 02-631-1994/5/6
Fax: 02-631-1998
UNITED KINGDOM
57, trafalgar Square,
London WC2N 5DU,
UNITED KINGDOM.
Tel: 0171-930-7932
Fax: 0171-930-9015
E-mail: mtpb.london@tourism.gov.my
U.S.A. – Los Angeles
818, Suite 970,
West 7th Street,
Los Angeles, CA 90017-3432,U.S.A.
Tel: 213-689-9702
Ax: 213-689-1530
E-mail: malinfo@aol.com
U.S.A.- New York
120, East 56th Street,
Suite 810, New York, NY10022
USA
Tel: 212-754-1113/ 1114
Fax: 212-754-1116
E-mail: mtpb@aol.com
URL:http://www.visitmalaysia.com
Festival of San Pedro (June)
Festival of San Pedro a delightful cultural event where the descendants of early Portuguese settlers celebrate the birthday of the patron saint of fisherman, St. Pedro. The fishing boats which are colourfully decorated for the festivals are blessed and prayers offered for a better season.
Flora Festival/ Parade (July)
Kuala Lumpur, the Garden City blooms even lovelier during this week. There will be flora hunts, flower sales, exhibitions of Malaysia’s diverse flora at public gardens, and hotel lobbies. Shopping complexes will also be attractively-displayed with floral arrangements. This week culminates in a spectacular international Floral Parade.
National Day (31 August)
The country celebrates it’s independence on 31 August with parades, exhibitions, stage shows and other cultural activities will be held. Towns and cities throughout Malaysia will be gaily decorated and adorned with lights for the grand occasion
Malaysia Fest (September)
For two weeks, all the major hotels and shopping complexes join forces to feature the culture, cuisine and handicraft of the various states in Malaysia.
The Moon Festivals (September)
Perayaan ini dirayakan oleh masyarakat Cina pada hari ke-15 of the eight lunar month. Keistimewaan utama pada bulan hari ini ditandakan dengan mooncake and lanters. It was on this night in ancient china that the Hans overthrew the Mongols. Night celebrations see the making of sacrificial on open-air and lantern parades by children.
Shopping Carnival (October)
Bargains galore at shopping establishments in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Penang during this annual two weeks shopping extravaganza.
Deepavali (October/ November)
Deepavali is also known as the Festival of lights. Deepavali is celebrated by Hindus to commemorate the triumph of Lord Krishna over the forces of evil led by Nargansuran. During this festival, Hindu homes are emblazoned with lights to symbolize this triumph.
Christmas (25 December)
Christmas is celebrated by Christians similar to any other part of the world. Midnight services are held at churches on Christmas eve. Shopping centres, hotels, oldfolks homes and children’s home echo with beautiful carols. The revelry and yuletide spirit of Christmas is enjoyed by Christians and non-Christians.
Note:
Date of festivals may vary from year to year. Please check with Tourism Malaysia’s Office nearest to you
MALAYSIA TOURISM PROMOTION BOARD (TOURISM MALAYSIA) OFFICES
HEAD OFFICE
17th, 24th-27th & 30 th Floor
Menara Dato onn
Putra World Trade Centre,
45, Jalan Tun Ismail,
50480, Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03-2935188
Fax: 03-2935884
URL: http//tourism.gov.my
E-mail: tourism@tourism.gov.my
REGIONAL OFFICES
NORTHERN REGION
10, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah,
10200 Penang,
Tel: 04-2619067, 2620066
Fax: 04-2623688
E-mail: mtpbpen@tourism.gov.my
SOUTHERN REGION
Suite 5-2, Johor Tourist
Information Centre (JOTIC),
2, Jalan Ayer Molek,
80000 johor Bahru,
Tel: 07-2223591, 2240288
Fax: 07-2235502
E-mail: mtpbjhb@tourism.gov.my
EAST COAST REGION
5th floor
Menara Yayasan Islam Terengganu
Jalan Sultan Omar,
20300 Kuala Terengganu
Tel: 09-622 1433
Fax: 09-622 1893
E-Mail: mtpbkt@tourism.gov.my
SABAH OFFICE
Ground Floor,
Bangunan EON CMG Life,
No.1, Jalan Sagunting,
88000 Kota Kinabalu,
Tel: 088-248698, 242064, 211732
Fax: 088-241764
E-mail: mtpbbki@tourism.gov.my
SARAWAK OFFICE
2nd Floor, Bangunan Rugayah,
Jalan Song thian Cheok,
93100 Kuching,
Tel: 082-246575, 246775
Fax: 082-246442
E-mail: mtpbkch@tourism.gov.my
OVERSEAS OFFICES
AUSTRALIA – Sydney
65, York Street,
Sydney, NSW 2000,
AUSTRALIA.
Tel: 02-2994441/2/3
Fax: 02-2622026
E-mail: httan@tourism.gov.my
AUSTRALIA – Perth
56, William Street,
Perth, WA 6000,
AUSTRALIA.
Tel: 09-94810400
Fax: 09-93211421
E-mail: tourmal@omen.net.au
CANADA
830, Burrard Street,
Vancouver, B.C.,
CANADA V6Z 2K4,
Tel: 604-689 8899
Fax: 604-689 8804
E-mail: mtpb.vancouver@tourism.gov.my
FRANCE
Office National du
Tourisme de Malaisie,
29, Rue des Pyramides,
75001 Paris,
FRANCE.
Tel: 331-4297 4171
Fax: 331-4297 4169
E-mail: malaisie@club-internet.fr
GERMANY
Rossmarkt 11,
60311, frankfurt Am Main,
GERMANY.
Tel: 069-283 782/ 783
Fax: 069-133 79121
E-mail: mtpb.frankfurt@arcormail.de
HONG KONG
Ground Floor,
Malaysia Building,
No 47-50, Gloucester road,
HONG KONG,
Tel: 852-2528 5810/ 5811
Fax: 852-2865 4610
E-mail: mtpbhkg@netvigator.com
ITALY
Secondo Piano,
Piazza San Babila 4/B,
20122 Milano,
ITALY.
Tel: 02-796 702
Fax: 02-796 806
E-mail: mtpb.milan@tourism.gov.my
JAPAN-Osaka
10th floor, Cotton Nissay Building,
1-8-2, Utsubo-Honmachi
Nishi-ku, Osaka 550-0004
JAPAN.
Tel: 06-6444-1220
Fax: 06-6444-1380
E-mail: mtpbosa@movenet.or.jp
JAPAN- Tokyo
5F Chiyoda Building,
1-6-4, Yurakucho,
Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0006
JAPAN
Tel: 03-3501-8691
Fax: 03-3501-8692
VOICE FAX INFOSERV.
Tel: 03-3249 7210/ ACC CODE 4370#
E-mail: mtpb.tokyo@tourism.gov.my
URL: http://www.tourismmalaysia.ot.jp
SINGAPORE
10, Collyer Quay,
#01-06, Ocean Building,
SINGAPORE 049315
Tel: 65-532 6321/ 6351
Fax: 65-535 6650
E-mail: mtpb.singapore@tourism.gov.my
SOUTH AFRICA
1st Floor, Hutton Court,
Cnr. Of Jan Smuts Avenue & Summit Road,
Hyde Park 2196,
Johannesburg,
SOUTH AFRICA.
Tel: 011-327 0400/ 0401
Fax: 011-327 0205
E-mail: mtpb.johannesburg@tourism.gov.my
SOUTH KOREA
1st Floor, Han Young Building,
57-9, Seosomun-dong,
Chung-ku, Seoul,
SOUTH KOREA.
Tel: 02-779-4422/ 4251,
7794253 (DL)
Fax: 02-7794254
E-mail: mtpb@users.unitel.co.kr
SWEDEN
Klarabergsgatan 35, 2tr.,
11121 Stockholm. SWEDEN
Tel: 46-8-24 99 00
Fax: 46-8-24 23 24
E-mail: mtpb.stockholm@tourism.gov.my
TAIWAN
Suite C, 8th Floor, Hung Tai Centre,
170, Tun Hwa North Road, Taipei. TAIWAN
Tel: 02-2514-9704/ 9734
Fax: 02-2514-9973
E-mail: mtpbtpe@ms29.hinet.net
THAILAND
Unit 1001, Liberty Square,
287, Silom Road, Bangkok 10500, THAILAND
Tel: 02-631-1994/5/6
Fax: 02-631-1998
UNITED KINGDOM
57, trafalgar Square,
London WC2N 5DU,
UNITED KINGDOM.
Tel: 0171-930-7932
Fax: 0171-930-9015
E-mail: mtpb.london@tourism.gov.my
U.S.A. – Los Angeles
818, Suite 970,
West 7th Street,
Los Angeles, CA 90017-3432,U.S.A.
Tel: 213-689-9702
Ax: 213-689-1530
E-mail: malinfo@aol.com
U.S.A.- New York
120, East 56th Street,
Suite 810, New York, NY10022
USA
Tel: 212-754-1113/ 1114
Fax: 212-754-1116
E-mail: mtpb@aol.com
URL:http://www.visitmalaysia.com