Vacation In Malaysia

  
General Information
Malaysia is located in the heart of Southeast Asia. Consisting of 127,000 sq. miles (330,200 sq. km), Malaysia is divided into two main regions: Peninsular Malaysia, which lies just south of Thailand, and East Malaysia, which can be found north of Indonesia on the island of Borneo. These two regions are divided into thirteen states and federal territories. Although East Malaysia occupies the larger portion of Malaysia’s total area, it is primarily comprised of undeveloped land and jungles.

Malaysia is a land of fascinating sights and attractions. Rich in colour and contrasts, her multi-faceted charm provides intriguing images that leave visitors to the country in awe. The natural warmth of Malaysians is legendary; wherever one goes, the friendliness and hospitality of the people would prove to be a very special experience. Malaysia is paradise. Its sun-drenched beaches, enchanting islands, diverse flora and fauna, forest retreats and magnificent mountains are among the best in this region. Many visitors have discovered Malaysia’s other attractions: a shopping haven, a versatile conference venue, an incentive destination, an adventure land and much more.

WEATHER CONDITIONS
With temperature that fluctuates little throughout the year, travel in Malaysia is a pleasure. Average temperature is between 21 to 32 degree celcius. Humidity is high. Rain tends to occur between November to February on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, on western Sarawak, and north-eastern Sabah. On the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia the rainy seasons is April to May and October to November.

PEOPLE AND CULTURE
Malaysia has a combined population of over 18 million people. Because of its central location, between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, Malaysia has traditionally been a meeting point for traders and travelers from both the East and West. As a result, Malaysia has a multicultural and multiracial population consisting of Malays, Chinese, Indians and numerous indigenous peoples. Although Malay is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in business, and the English language is a compulsory subject in all schools. With such a varying ethnic composition, it is no surprise that a great diversity of religions is prevalent throughout Malaysia. Although the official religion is Islam, freedom of worship is practiced. As a result, it is a common to see temples, mosques and churches within the same area.

• Ethnic Groups: 59% Malay and other indigenous, 32% Chinese and 9% Indian.

• Languages: Malay (official), English, Chinese dialects, Mandarin, Hakka dialects, Cantonese, Tamil and numerous tribal languages.

• Religion: Muslim (primarily Malays), Buddhism (Chinese), Hindu (Indian), Christianity, Confucianism, Taoism and tribal religions.

Although handshakes generally suffice for both men and women, some Muslim ladies may acknowledge an introduction with a gentleman with a nod of her head and smile. A handshake is only to be reciprocated if the lady offers her hand first. The traditional greeting of "salam" resembles a handshake with both hands but without the grasp. The man offers both hands, lightly touches his friend’s outstretched hands, then brings his hands to his chest to mean, " I greet you from my heart". The visitor should reciprocate the "salam".

It is polite to call before visiting a home

Shoes must be removed when entering a Malaysian home. It is also customary to do so upon entering a mosque or an Indian temple.

The right hand is always used when eating with one’s hand or when giving and receiving objects The right forefinger is not used to point at places, objects or persons. Instead, the thumb of the right hand with the four fingers, folden under is preferred usage.

Toasting is not a common practice in Malaysia. The country’s large Muslim population does not drink alcoholic bevergaes.
THINGS TO KNOW
Population: 20 million

Capital: Kuala Lumpur

Flag: Fourteen equal horizontal stripes of red (top) alternating with white (bottom); there is a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing a yellow crescent and a yellow fourteen-pointed star; the crescent and star are traditional symbols of Islam; the design was based on the U.S. flag.

Shop Hours: Department stores and supermarkets are usually open from 10am to 10pm and shops from 9:30am to 7pm. In Kuala Lumpur, as well as in most major towns, there are several 24-hour stores.

Bank Hours:
Most states:
Mon-Fri: 9:30am-4.00pm
Sat : 9:30am-11:30am
Sun : Closed

Kelantan and Terengganu:
Sat-Wed: 9:30am-4.00pm
Thur : 9:30am-11.30am
Fri : Closed

VISAS AND PASSPORT
Visitors must be in possession of a current passport or other internationally recognized travel document. They must be endorsed for traveling to Malaysia and have a period of validity of at least six months beyond the time of stay allowed in Malaysia. No visas are required for citizens of British Commonwealth countries (except India), British Protected persons, and citizens of the Republic of Ireland, Liechtenstein, the Netherlands, San Marino, Switzerland and the United States (for social, business or academic purposes only). No visas are required for stays not exceeding three months for citizens of: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Luxemburg, Norway, South Korea, Sweden, Tunesia, U.S.A. , France and Germany (except for local employment).

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS
Duty-Free Items: Items such as cameras, watches, pens, portable radio-cassette players, perfume, cosmetics and lighters are duty-free in Malaysia. Visitors bringing in dutiable goods may have to pay a deposit for temporary importation, refundable on departure - usually 50% of the value (carry receipt of purchase and obtain an official receipt for any tax or deposit paid).

Introduction

-Location Map
-Accommodation
-Tour Package
 

Home to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), the country’s main entry point, and Port Klang, the largest port in Malaysia.

There is an extensive network of highways and expressways (toll) in the state, making all parts of Selangor easily accessible.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, and Putrajaya, the federal administrative capital, lie within the bounds of the state, further enhancing the touristic appeal of Selangor.

The magnificent Kota Darul Ehsan Arch along the Federal Highway welcomes visitors driving into the state. This Moorish-styled arch is the state’s most distinguishing landmark, erected to mark the ceding of Kuala Lumpur to the Federal Government in 1974.

Selangor dazzles with a fascinating variety of attractions. Its flourishing urban centres, such as Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya, Sunway and the royal town of Klang abound with modern facilities, from excellent healthcare institutions, international colleges to huge shopping malls and recreational centres.

Shah Alam, Selangor’s capital, has the distinction of being a well-planned township which harmonizes nature with modernity. Here, residential areas and commercial centres are set amidst lush landscapes and a sprawling lake.

Away from the urban centres, refreshing scenes of rural villages and serene coastlines begin to unfurl. This exciting state is also the venue of world-class sporting events such as the Formula One Grand Prix and F1 Powerboat World Championship.

History-lovers will be enchanted by Selangor’s colourful past, rich with the glorious days of its tin mining industry and the splendour of its royal household.

Showcasing a wealth of attractions such as diverse cultures, unique places of interest, historical landmarks and sumptuous culinary delights, Selangor is indeed a never-ending discovery.

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Introduction

-Location Map
-Accommodation
-Tour Package

Perak Darul Ridzuan, the Land of Grace, covers an area of 21,000 square kilometres and has a population of about two million.

The state is divided into nine districts and its major towns include lpoh, Kuala Kangsar, Taiping, Teluk Intan and Lumut. Kuala Kangsar is the royal town of Perak, while lpoh is the administrative centre and state capital.

There are several versions as to the origin of Perak. Some say that the name "PERAK" came from Bendahara Tun Perak of Malacca while some say that it came from the "glimmer of fish in the water" that sparkled like silver, or Perak as it is known in Malay. Therefore, the mere mention of the state’s name will reflect the treasures hidden in its earth.

The Perak State, in actual fact, has been in existence since the prehistoric age. Kota Tampan in Lenggong is the one and only proof that the Palaeolithic Age existed in Malaya. The Perak State went through numerous evolutions between 400 000 BC and 8000 BC.

The state had experienced the Hoabinhian Era and the Neolithic Age as well as the Metal Age, which was proven with the findings of relevant ancient artifacts.

Then came the Hindu/Buddha era. It was thought to have occured simultaneously with the rest of Malaya.

After this period, the history of the state advanced a step further with the formation of minor territories such as Manjung in the Dinding District and Beruas which came into existence after Manjung ceased to exist. This also apply to a few other territories in the Perak Tengah and Hulu Perak. It was also then that Islam began to plant its roots firmly in the state.

Historically Perak’s history actually began with the installation of Sultan Muzaffar Shah 1, who was a descendent of Sultan Mahmud Shah of Malacca, in the year 1528. Although the Perak Sultanate had formed the territorial powers were still in effect. The administrative method was an extension of the democratic feudal system of Malacca.

Perak became more prominent with the discovery of tin in Larut, Taiping in 1848 by Long Jaafar. With this discovery, Perak’s economy boomed and more mining areas were brought into existence. In addition to tin ore, natural rubber also played an important role and is still being planted after the reign of 33 or 34 consecutive Sultans.

Due to this significant implication of economic development resulted in the birth of a multiracial society especially with the introduction of the Chinese into the mining area.

The British who had long been interested Perak, intervened through the Pangkor Treaty in 1874 after a riot in Larut. As a result of this intervention, the Residential system was introduced with James W.W Birch as its first Resident.

Initially, the Residential system was supposed to yield positive results. However, because it deviated from its original cause, compled with the natives’ refused to be colonized led to an uprising against the Resident under the leadership of Datuk Maharaja Lela. As a result J.W.W Birch was assassinated in 1875.

The Residential system continued until the arrival of the Japanese to Malaya in 1941. The Perak State also suffered, as did others, during the Japanese occupation of Malaya until the year 1945.

Even after the Japanese surrendered, the British still colonized Malaya until the year 1948. Violence was rampant then in Perak, due to Communist terrorism.

After the Japanese occupation in Malaya, the Malay States were not stable. The British did their utmost best to maintain their position by introducing new administration systems such as the Malayan Union in 1946, despite the people’s nasionalistic spirit to seek independence.

The people of Malaya combined their efforts with all state dignitaries to fully rebel against all British systems. They continuesly oppressed until the British granted Malaya independence in 1957.

The independence of Malaya meant the freedom for all its Federated States, which Perak was a part of. Rapid development in all fields continued until today, after the reign of 34 consecutive Sultans.

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Introduction
-Location Map
-Accommodation

Kuala Lumpur, a city covering 243.6 sq km. with a population of 1.3 million people, is situated on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, just about midway between north and south and approximately 35 kilometers from the coast. The days are generally hot and humid but the nights are pleasantly cooler, while the average annual rainfall is about 220mm.

Kuala Lumpur, which is also the capital of Malaysia, function as the center of Malaysia’s political, commercial and social life. It is a city of delightful contrast - a combination of modern cosmopolitan, sophistication and lingering old world charm; a juxtaposition of gracious colonial edifices, pre-war shop houses and gleaming copper domed roofs against a backdrop of towering skyscrapers. Narrow streets of quaint old shop houses open out to wide-open tree-lined avenues. The favorable climate accounts for the lush greenery and profusion of tropical blooms in a riot of colors - a truly fitting background for its happy mix of multi-racial populace of Malays, Chinese, Indians and other races. The end result is unique blend of age-old customs and traditions: colorful festivals, songs and dances and a rich variety of foods to tempt the palate. Experience the multi-faceted fascinations of Malaysia - right here in Kuala Lumpur.

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Introduction
-Location Map
-Accommodation
-Tour Package

Terengganu is one of the Malaysian state which is endowed with a wealth of charming and refreshing natural landscapes. She has beaches, exotic islands, lush virgin tropical jungle, quaint fishing villages, dazzling waterfalls and many, many more. Her miles and miles of white, sandy beaches and crystal clear water stretches throughout its 225 km coastline, extending from Besut in the north to Kemaman in the South. Her islands are among the most picturesque and fascinating in the country. From its myriad of colourful pastimes which include batik printing and songket weaving to the rapturous celebration of its many generations of cultural and traditional heritage, Terengganu is indeed a very blessed state.

Terengganu’s population, which stands at approximately 1 million people, consists of 90% Malays, with the rest being made up of Chinese and Indians. The pace of life in Kuala Terengganu, its capital state, and all the towns and villages in Terengganu is unhurried and unaffected by the hustle and bustle of a big city.

Terengganu’s history goes back to as far as the 1st century and has long been an important area of Malay settlement. Throughout the time up to the present day, Terengganu has been ruled by 16 Sultans.

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Introduction

-Location Map
-Accommodation
-Moving Around

Approximately 112km south of Langkawi, lies the island of PENANG the ‘Pearl of the Orient’. When first discovered by Captain Francis Light in 1786, the island was filled with lush tropical vegetation. The betel nut palm was a common sight all over the island - a fact which gave rise to the name of Pulau Pinang (Island of the Betel Nut). Penang has come a long way from its early beginnings as the first British trading post in the Far East. Its capital Georgetown is a bustling metropolitan city with a unique blend of East and West.

By contrast, the famous beaches of Penang - Tanjung Bungah, Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang offer all the scenic delights of tropical island paradise - stretches of golden sandy beaches, clear blue seas and tiny secluded coves enclosed by clusters of rocks. Penang is a resort island in full bloom with numerous hotels of international standard fronting the sea along the beaches on its northern coastlines. The range of facilities and amenities available here makes it an ideal playground for worshippers of the sun and the sea.

But there is another side of Penang that still remains to be discovered. Along the northwestern coastline are some of the fine beaches on the island. Imagine a sparkling sea, powdery white sand, sunlight filtering through coconut groves - the scene of perfect tranquillity. These beaches remain as Penang’s best kept secrets because they are relatively inaccessible except by hiking through jungle trails. The rewards would make the effort really worthwhile.

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Introduction

The state of Kedah spans approximately 9, 425 sq. km in the northern part of the Peninsular and together with Perlis, Perak and Kelantan, shares a common border with neighbouring Thailand. It has the distinction of being the "Rice Bowl of Malaysia", the Kedah-Perlis rice plains produce more than half of the country’s home grown rice supply. Alor Setar, the state capital, is the seat of Government and the business centre of the state.

The flat expanse of padi fields against a backdrop of rolling hills provides a picture of utter serenity that lulls the senses. Off its western shore, are clusters of sun-drenched islands that comprise the legendary islands of Langkawi. Kedah also owes its fame to the archeological discoveries at the Bujang Valley, which furnished evidence of the existence of an early civilisation dating back to the 6th cebtury A.D. With its islands, legends, historical relics, hill stations and scenic aterfalls, Kedah offers the visitor a variety of sights, sounds and fun-filled activities - from beach combing to diving, water skiing, picnicking or merely to take in the sights.